Synthesize what you have learned about media and society in this course through the writing of this final paper about music and its influences. Music is a medium that has shaped the ages. As noted throughout your texts, social movements have existed and evolved through many methods and vehicles. Music is one of those vehicles and music represents more than entertainment. It has spoken for generations and exemplified belief systems.
For your final paper assignment, you are to write a 3-4 page research essay (excluding APA title page, appendix, and reference sheet or bibliography) that addresses the following questions and contexts. In this paper, explore the relationship of music to at least three of the decades between the 1960s and today. Your paper should discuss high profile events or movements that happened in each of the three decades and for each decade pick a song that personifies or represents the primary “mood” of the decade. In the essay:
cite examples of how activism and social justice are exemplified through music
show how technology and social media influenced the listener’s reactions
The summary portion of the essay (perhaps at least 3/4 page of the entire essay) should draw connections between the decades and synthesize your findings. For instance, discuss what are commonalities of movements and people who are represented throughout the decades?
Are these songs anthems for each decade or do the stand the test of time with other generations? Are there common threads that connect some decades with others?
