The Eyes and Ears of Iriana

  What Is DooWop?      Doowop is a genre of music that was popular during the 1940s and 50s. the way to distinguish the doo-wop sound is the close harmony and more particularly the use of nonsense words that correspond with the beat or rhythm with the words. Doowop is also known as a sub-category of rhythm and blues, wh9ich were popular genres during this time. The sound of Doowop takes inspiration from blues, jazz, and swing. How was Doowop created? Surprisingly, the creation of Doowop had nothing to do with famous musicians at that time or fancy recording labels. Doowop was created by African American teenagers. While swing music was on a rise so was segregation. The black community was separated and given fewer opportunities than white people, this even extended to the music scene. Since they couldn’t buy expensive instruments or perform with famous groups, Doowop was born. Born in alleyways, barbershops, living rooms, anywhere that was safe and allowed creativity...

    This week's blog will be an interview with my mom. she grew up in the late 70s, so her music taste is somewhat different from mine. I tried to ask questions that would show a clear contrast between time and music. for the most part, I think the best way to get to know what music someone grew up with is to not only ask about what they like but also the time. this interview took place on zoom, I was unable to go home to talk to my mom. Iriana- hey mama, you ready to start mama- I reckon (laughs) Iriana- ok so what do you think were the best years for music? mama- ummm, when I was bout, 12. around the 80s. iriana- why? mama-music wasn't anything like today. you didn't hear all that cussing and sex. we listened to Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Prince.  iriana- so a lot of pop icons today are mainly what you listen to. mama- yea, I liked older music too, Etta James, Nina Simone, you know them. i raised you right (laughs) iriana- (laugh) I guess so. ...

What do think of when you think of Egyptian music? If you are anything like me you probably thought about camels, gold, and slow chimes with a calming melody in the background. I only think this way because I haven't learned about the actual culture and the significant of the music, until now. First, I had to consider the origin of Egyptian music. sadly, after a bit of research, it turns out that no one really knows what ancient Egyptian music sounded like. there was no sign of written music or scales, so scientist got their information from cave carving, and painting. They also found some instruments. some instruments that were discovered were harps,  Mashrôkêtã (double oboe) and the double flute.  Many of today's instruments come from or are inspired by Egyptian instruments. One of the oldest flutes was found in ancient Egypt. The Harp and the flute are both instruments we have discussed with other cultures in class.  The Egyptian flute has a low windy sound, that i...