MUS 203 Songs (EXAM 1)

Woman’s Smarter by The Jolly Boys

sounds: the form follows an alternation between the chorus and verses

• the banjo previews the melody of the song at the start

lyrics: has a double meaning that critiques women’s deceptiveness but also calling them smart and clever

• light hearted and witty message rather than accusatory. it is humorous

The Guns of Navarone by The Skatalites

sounds: the tempo of the song is very fast compared to songs like one love

• there is a horn/bass on every 2nd and 4th beat of the song, the offbeats.

lyrics: no lyrics in the song

• lack of lyrics emphasizes the story telling of the song

One Love by The Wailers

sounds: there is skank rhythm with the guitar and keyboard emphasizing the offbeat

• the medium is a lead singer accompanied by a small reggae bands consisting of guitars, brass and drums

lyrics: promotes unity and togetherness, they are calling for peace

• repetitive one love emphasizes their message of cohesion and peace

One Love/People Get Ready by Bob Marley and the Wailers

sounds: sounds more polished than the version with the Wailers and the tempo is much slower

• follows a skank rhythm done through the electric guitar

lyrics: the lyrics take pity on racists for being bigoted

• calls for peace and unity

Ting Loud by Protoje ft. Masicka

sounds: there is a electronic and digital element due to the electric bass and synthesizers/keyboards

• sung in Jamaican patois which pairs well with the riddim aspect

lyrics: the lyrics discuss themes of resilience and empowerment, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of life

• focuses on boasting and self assurance

El Cuarto de Tula by Buena Vista Social Club

sounds: features a blend of traditional Cuban son, with rich instrumentation including guitar, trumpet, and percussion

• clave rhythm and medium are complex while the chords remain simple

lyrics: the lyrics describe a fire breaking out in tula’s room

• the lyrics are in the form of a call and response between the lead singer and chorus

Oye Como Va by Tito Puente

sounds: combines Latin jazz elements with a catchy and memorable melody, instruments like piano, flutes, horns, and percussion

• features an upbeat rhythm/groove that encourages dancing

lyrics: the lyrics celebrate the joy of life and the beauty of music

• the lyrics are simple and repetitive, inviting a woman to listen and enjoy the music (dance invitation)

Dem Bow by Shabba Ranks

sounds: follows the “riddim” rhythm with heavy bass and electronic elements, demonstrating reggae influences

• delivers vocals through a toasting style in a high energy and upbeat flow

lyrics: criticizes colonial rule through their message to not bow to colonizers and their traditions

• describes sexual acts deemed deviant

Gasolina by Daddy Yankee

sounds: song utilizes dembow riddim and has an electric sound

• the vocals are strained and somewhat aggressive

lyrics: talks about celebrating the nightlife and dancing passion

• the lyrics talk about women enjoying the club scene and the appeal of reggaeton.

Despacito by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee ft. Justin Bieber

sounds: there are multiple intersecting melodies

• bieber’s part is melismatic sometimes

lyrics: the lyrics explore themes of love and seduction, inviting a woman to do sensual things

• the lyrics also use playful imagery about dancing and closeness

DtMF by Bad Bunny (I should’ve taken more photos)

sounds: has a slower tempo and syllabic text setting

• it is a call and response song with acoustic moments

lyrics: lyrics talk about nostalgia and regret. bad bunny wishes he appreciated the past more.

• it also demonstrates a wider theme of missing home and puerto rican identity

La Banda Del Carro Rojo by Los Tigres del Norte

sounds: triple meter for the rhythm, gives it a waltz like feel

• led w/ accordian and bajo sexto in a classic norteno style

lyrics: the song is a corrido that recounts a drug smuggling from the border to Chicago in a red car

• “can’t sing” at the end is slang for no snitching
  
  

El Crimen de Culiacan by Chalino Sanchez

sounds: has a slower tempo compared to other narocorridos

• the vocals sound far away and echo-y, definitely has a lower budget recording quality which gives it charm

lyrics: describes drug trafficking and the hardships of crime

• specifically recounts gore-y details of the crime like the dog eating their guts despite sounding like an upbeat song.

El Chapo Fugo Otra Mas by Lupillo Rivera

*talking at the start

sounds: medium consists of a modern banda arrangement, incorporating brass and percussion elements with a vocalist

• rivera sings in a bold and clear storytelling tone that puts focus on his narrative/message

lyrics: emphasizes themes of freedom, rebellion, and the complexities of the drug trade.

• critiques mexican government for allowing el chapo’s escape, it’s a jab at the government

Sanguinarios Del M1 by Los Buitres de Culican Sinaloa

*shooting sounds at the start

sounds: the song opens with gunfire sound effects, creating an intense atmosphere.

- instrumental features traditional banda elements with a fast-paced rhythm; tubas, accordions, and snare rolls.

lyrics: boasts about kidnapping and torturing which is a contrast to the lively music

• very gorey and unapologetic, going into detail about cuting people to pieces w/ multiple gunshot wounds