I have a theory
Just a tiny little theory that has either hit the nail on the head or uncovered my ignorance (and perhaps ageing) towards the music of much of today's youth.
I find so much music that I listen to has a distinct lack of an actual sound and very certainly a distinct lack of message.
Rock n' roll
Was a movement – breaking boundaries and taboo.
Punk
Was a movement – political reform and an anti-authoritarian mindset.
Style seems to be the substance of today's music.
The more outrageous a bands style, video or haircut; the more successful they're likely to become. It's like a cheap distraction away from the fact their musical depth is that of a non-reflective puddle.
This is not to say of course that I don't enjoy lots of the music that's currently being released but I have to admit it's more likely that my enjoyment is that of the visual of a jazzy music video, a catchy hook or the fact that they're collaborating with someone that's previously done all the hard work at producing something original.
As a writer myself I of course enjoy writing light hearted songs or articles about daily life; songs about boys (and perhaps one day men), about men with funny moustaches, I've even written an ode to my favourite drink! Fun to write but I see it as like stretching before a work-out; a good start and better than nothing but it's the actual exercise that provides the adrenalin, that's the part you really have to push yourself for; both mentally and physically. That's the part that matters.
Along with my writing partner LeaLea Jones we've done our best to write about what we see around us in society, not that we feel our opinion is ever so important to anyone else but us but it's about saying something! Something that perhaps, just maybe will make someone think about what they're singing along to, perhaps, just maybe make someone aware of something they weren't aware of.
One such song was inspired by our recent trip to Ensanada, Mexico. Our trip was for the most part rather undramatic but from the gasps of shock from everyone we spoke to about the fact we'd just visited Mexico you'd assume otherwise. The over the top incredulous looks that we'd returned alive and unscathed intrigued us in to researching more about Mexico.
Very aware that it's a dangerous country but perhaps ignorant to just have prevalent the day to day risks of being in Mexico were - it became a slightly morbid fascination initially. Reading article after article, watching documentaries and subscribing to such blogs as the Narco Blog; written by an anonymous blogger who dared to break the stories a lot of journalists were afraid to write for fear of death.
One fact that shocked me was the fact that more than 28,000 people have died in drug related violence since 2006 (2010 figures). To put this in to perspective 10,081 (Jan 2011) died in the war in Afghanistan.
Disappointed in our own lack of awareness to just how grotesque the situation in Mexico is we penned a song; 'AK47' to voice our understanding of the situation.
LeaLea Jones recently performed it at the Soundwave Festival held in Croatia.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXYWdV8tAmk&feature=mh_lolz&list=LLbx8MZ25dX9s
A good beat, a catchy hook and a message – surely not a lot to ask for from a community who supposedly feel an urge to express themselves?
About the Author(s)
Cherry Fair a creative label founded by Lealea Jones and Kim Garrett – was born of a love of all art forms. Currently focusing on the talent of singer/songwriter artist Lealea Jones, both LeaLea and Kim are collaboratively working on putting the finishing touches to LeaLea's debut album; currently being mixed and mastered at Abbey Rd studios. Writing also for other artists, adverts and of course guest blogging on the wonderful Anne's-âneries!
LeaLea Jones is an established British artist who has been writing and performing since the age of eight. Working and performing alongside major acts such as, Beyonce, Jay Z and Amy Winehouse at some of the most prestigious shows and events around the globe.
She has released her own music as well as written for established acts and record labels such as, Domu, Tru Thoughts Records, Ninja Tunes, BBE Records, Rihanna, (Def Jam). In late 2010 LeaLea landed a major contract to write a piece of music for the Head and Shoulders (P&G) advert which is currently being shown worldwide.
She has also gone on to become a BBC Introducing artist, recording songs from her upcoming album at the famous Maida Vale studios with her live band. Through this LeaLea received heavy rotation on BBC Radio 1 and BBC 1xtra.
Kim Garrett having written as soon as she could pick up a pen has been enjoying flexing her writing muscles through song writing alongside LeaLea, article based blogs, and business based writings too.
Having travelled a lot whilst growing up and a continued love of moving around, meeting new people and new experiences this provides Kim with a lot of the inspiration used in her writing.
Also a love for style and anything with a visual aspect Kim has used this passion within the realms of the label on such projects as music video's and photo shoots.
Together KimLea (it's so much easier right) are intending with pen in hand to reform the world with words. Ambitious but it's good to have goals.
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