Here is my research for the music video project.
In-Depth Research:
Name: SZA - Good Days
Year: 2020
Production Company: Top Dawg EntertainmentDistribution Company: RCA Records
Genre / Sub-genre: R&B/Neo-Soul
What conventions does it conform to?
1. Smooth, soulful vocals that are characteristic of R&B.
2. The song focuses on introspection, personal growth, and emotional vulnerability, common themes in modern R&B.
3. Dream-like production with layered harmonies and lush instrumentation, fitting the neo-soul subgenre.
What conventions does it subvert?
1. The video features surreal visuals and fantasy elements, deviating from the grounded, everyday settings often seen in traditional R&B videos.
2. Instead of focusing on a romantic relationship, the song delves into SZA’s personal journey of healing and self-acceptance.
What representations are there?
1. The video represents a woman’s desire to find peace and clarity, using nature and fantasy to symbolize her emotional journey.
2. The visuals depict themes of self-discovery and breaking free from mental constraints, representing inner growth.
What technical elements are used to give meaning?
1. Use of vibrant colors and whimsical settings enhances the feeling of freedom and self-exploration.
2. Dreamy, slow-motion shots create a meditative and reflective atmosphere, matching the contemplative tone of the song.
Name: Usher - Climax
Year: 2012
Production Company: Prettybird
Distribution Company: RCA Records
Genre / Sub-genre: R&B/Electro-R&B
What conventions does it conform to?
1. The sultry, emotional vocal delivery is a classic feature of R&B.
2. The song centers on love, heartbreak, and the emotional complexity of relationships, a common theme in R&B.
3. A slow, sensual beat drives the song, aligning with R&B’s tendency towards smooth, seductive rhythms.
What conventions does it subvert?
1. The production incorporates electronic elements, blending R&B with electronic music, creating a hybrid electro-R&B sound.
2. The video tells a story of emotional conflict rather than focusing on physical intimacy, which is often a focal point in R&B videos.
What representations are there?
1. The video represents the emotional tension in a failing relationship, symbolizing indecision and the difficulty of moving on.
2. Usher’s character struggles with feelings of love, lust, and betrayal, reflecting the complexities of romantic relationships.
What technical elements are used to give meaning?
1. Low lighting and dramatic shadows create a tense and moody atmosphere, reflecting the emotional turmoil of the song.
2. Quick cuts between close-ups and wide shots intensify the feeling of internal conflict, adding to the tension in the storyline.
General Research
Title: Blinding Lights
Artist: The Weeknd
Year: 2019
Target audience, and how are they appealed to?
The target audience consists of young adults and fans of synth-pop and R&B. The song’s nostalgic 80s-inspired synthwave production and vibrant visuals appeal to an audience that enjoys retro aesthetics combined with modern pop sensibilities.
What would you like to use in your opening from this?
The fast-paced, cinematic opening with neon lights and urban nightscapes, creating an immediate sense of energy and excitement.
What would you like to avoid in your opening from this?
Overly long tracking shots that may slow down the pacing and intensity of the video’s introduction.
Title: Leave the Door Open
Artist: Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars & Anderson .Paak)
Year: 2021
Target audience, and how are they appealed to?
Fans of R&B, soul, and funk, particularly those who appreciate smooth, nostalgic sounds reminiscent of the 70s. The song appeals through its lush production, romantic lyrics, and old-school charm/rizz.
What would you like to use in your opening from this?
The relaxed, intimate vibe created by the use of warm lighting and a cozy, indoor setting.
A band playing respective instruments profesionally, while slightly dancing, enjoying the rythm.
What would you like to avoid in your opening from this?
A slow, stationary introduction that might lack visual variety and movement, which will lose viewer engagement.
Title: Love Galore
Artist: SZA (featuring Travis Scott)
Year: 2017
Target audience, and how are they appealed to?
Young adults and fans of alternative R&B. The music video’s moody atmosphere and themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment resonate with an emotionally invested audience.
What would you like to use in your opening from this?
The moody lighting and slow-motion effects to create an immediate emotional depth and tension.
What would you like to avoid in your opening from this?
Extended dialogue or plot-building that takes away from the focus on music and visuals.
Title: Adorn
Artist: Miguel
Year: 2012
Target audience, and how are they appealed to?
Young adults who appreciate R&B’s romantic and sensual side. The audience is drawn in through the song’s smooth vocals and intimate themes of love and passion.
What would you like to use in your opening from this?
The sleek and minimalistic visuals, using close-up shots and intimate camera angles to enhance the personal connection.
What would you like to avoid in your opening from this?
Repetitive imagery that doesn’t add to the narrative or overall visual impact (bores the audience).
Title: Earned It
Artist: The Weeknd
Year: 2015
Target audience, and how are they appealed to?
The song appeals to fans of contemporary R&B and those who enjoy cinematic, sophisticated production. The video’s dramatic, sensual visuals align with the mature themes of the song.
What would you like to use in your opening from this?
Dramatic lighting and luxurious, ornate set design that immediately establishes a mood of grandeur and elegance.
What would you like to avoid in your opening from this?
Overly dark or overly suggestive content that may not align with a broader audience’s expectations.
Title: Location
Artist: Khalid
Year: 2017
Target audience, and how are they appealed to?
The song targets young adults and teenagers, appealing to them through its relatable themes of young love and communication in the digital age. Khalid’s laid-back vocals and the simple, understated production resonate with listeners looking for authenticity and simplicity.
What would you like to use in your opening from this?
The natural, relaxed atmosphere, using soft lighting and outdoor settings to create a calm and reflective opening.
What would you like to avoid in your opening from this?
A lack of dynamic movement or engaging visuals that could cause the audience’s attention to drift.
Self-Reflection:
This is very fun to do and incredibly easy. However, I don't actually remember the names to music I like, so It was difficult to find the right songs to research. Fortunately, I bought GPT 4 which allow to research extremely quick: it allowed me to have a lists of songs in seconds. This cut down time spending in searching, so It allow me to allocate more time in researchings and analyzing the music videos. One of the research will be graded so I refined the research into a longer and more in-depth explanation. Note: I will not use AI for any future graded work, as it was a serious violation to the school's code of conduct.
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