Guitar Hero, American Idol and The Idea(L) of Genius+

Themes

  • Guitar = elements of Heroism

  • Idol = questions of the American Dream and Nationalism

Guitar Hero

Guitar Hero is a rhythm video game released in 2005, developed by RedOctane and published by Activision. It involves players using a guitar-shaped controller to simulate playing lead, bass guitar, and rhythm guitar across various rock music tracks.

  • Expansion with Rock Band: In 2007, Rock Band was released, expanding on the Guitar Hero concept by incorporating additional instruments such as drums and vocals, essentially creating a virtual band experience.

  • Controller Features: Guitar Hero's controller included features like pitch bending effects, mimicking techniques used by real guitarists during performances.

  • Guitar Design: The guitar controller was introduced by the Gibson Company, adding to the game's realism and appeal to music enthusiasts.

  • Commercial Success: The game generated over $2 billion in retail sales, indicating its massive popularity and influence on the gaming market.

  • Influence on Entertainment Industry: Guitar Hero and similar rhythm games, like Dance Dance Revolution from Japan, transformed entertainment venues. Bars began hosting Guitar Hero nights, which not only attracted patrons but also boosted sales and created a positive impact on businesses.

  • Music Promotion: The game's inclusion of popular music tracks led to increased sales of the featured songs, as players often sought out the music they enjoyed while playing.

  • Impact on Music Videos: Video games, such as Guitar Hero, began to overshadow traditional music videos as a platform for experiencing and interacting with music.

  • Moodow Musicality: The game contributed to the development of "moodow musicality," refining players' sense of rhythm, muscle control, and eye-hand coordination.

  • Instrument Sales: Guitar Hero's popularity also led to increased sales of real musical instruments, as players were inspired to learn to play the guitar or other instruments featured in the game.

  • Musical Notation and Performance: Players relied on musical notation displayed in the game to match the skills of living musicians, striving to replicate their performances with precision and spontaneit

Freddy Wong on youtube playing guitar hero (YYZ by Rush)

  • Participatory Culture: Freddy Wong's YouTube performance of Guitar Hero represents his contribution to participatory culture, where individuals actively engage with and remix existing content to create their own versions. Wong's rendition of "YYZ" by Rush showcases his creative interpretation of the game and the song.

  • Rhythmic Site Reading: Wong's performance involves a simplified form of rhythmic notation, where he reads the game's on-screen cues to play the song in real-time. While simplified, this form of notation still requires a high level of rhythmic understanding and coordination.

  • Predictability and Personalization: Since Wong consistently plays the same song, he has a deep understanding of its structure and rhythm, allowing him to predict the upcoming notes. However, Wong adds his own personal flair to the performance, incorporating elements of improvisation and creativity to make each rendition unique.

  • Hyper-Masculine Traits: Wong's performance replicates hyper-masculine traits often associated with rock music, particularly emphasizing technical prowess and virtuosity. By mastering the challenging gameplay and showcasing precision and speed, Wong embodies the exaggerated masculinity seen in traditional rock performances.

  • Over-the-Top Elements: Wong's performance may include over-the-top elements, such as exaggerated gestures or facial expressions, adding to the theatricality and entertainment value of the video. These elements enhance the spectacle of the performance and contribute to its appeal to viewers.

  • Correlation with Guitar Hero Interest: Wong's dedication to mastering Guitar Hero reflects a correlation between individuals' interest in the game and their investment in improving their skills. As seen in Wong's performance, the passion for Guitar Hero can drive players to achieve impressive feats and contribute to the broader culture surrounding the game.

  • In summary, Freddy Wong's Guitar Hero performance of "YYZ" by Rush exemplifies participatory culture, rhythmic site reading, predictability with personalization, replication of hyper-masculine traits, inclusion of over-the-top elements, and the correlation between interest and investment in Guitar Hero. Through his creative interpretation and skillful gameplay, Wong contributes to the ongoing cultural phenomenon surrounding the game.

American Dream

  • Definition: The American Dream is a concept characterized by motivation, ambition, and the pursuit of success. However, it is not solely defined by material wealth or achievement; rather, it encompasses the ideals of individualism, opportunity, and upward mobility.

  • Narratives of Failure: The American Dream narrative often includes stories of failure intertwined with tales of success. These narratives acknowledge the challenges and setbacks individuals face on their journey towards their goals, highlighting resilience, perseverance, and the ability to overcome obstacles as essential aspects of the American Dream.

  • Overcoming Obstacles: Central to the American Dream is the notion of overcoming obstacles, whether they are social, economic, or personal. This aspect emphasizes the belief in the possibility of improvement and advancement through hard work, determination, and resilience.

  • Individualism: The American Dream places a strong emphasis on individualism, the idea that individuals have the freedom and agency to pursue their own goals and aspirations. It celebrates the autonomy and self-reliance of individuals in shaping their own destinies.

American Idol

  • Creation: American Idol was created by Simon Fuller and premiered on the Fox network. It debuted in 2002 and quickly became one of the most popular reality TV shows in the United States.

  • Voting Process: American Idol introduced a unique voting system where viewers could vote for their favorite contestants via text message or phone call. This interactive format allowed the public to have a direct say in determining the show's winners.

  • Influence from British TV: American Idol was adapted from the British TV show "Pop Idol," created by Simon Fuller. The format was similar, featuring aspiring singers competing for a chance to become the next music sensation.

  • Association with Karaoke: American Idol has often been likened to a high-stakes karaoke competition, where contestants showcase their vocal talents by performing popular songs in front of a live audience and a panel of judges.

  • Longevity and Success: American Idol has enjoyed remarkable longevity, currently airing its 22nd season. It has remained one of the most profitable and enduring television shows in the United States, attracting millions of viewers each season.

In summary, American Idol, created by Simon Fuller and aired on the Fox network, revolutionized reality television with its interactive voting system. Adapted from the British TV show "Pop Idol," it has become synonymous with karaoke-style singing competitions and remains one of the most successful and enduring television franchises in the US, currently in its 22nd season.

Kelly Clarkson Audition in American Idol

  • Self-Made Woman: Kelly Clarkson's audition for American Idol showcased her as a self-made woman, someone who had worked hard to pursue her dreams and improve her status in life.

  • Voice as a Tool for Overcoming: Clarkson used her voice as a means to overcome challenges and surpass social failures. Through her audition, she demonstrated resilience and determination to succeed in the music industry.

  • Individualism: Clarkson's journey on American Idol exemplified the American Dream's emphasis on individualism, highlighting her unique talents and personal aspirations.

  • Relatability: Clarkson's audition was framed as relatable to the audience, as she represented the everyday person striving to achieve their dreams despite facing obstacles along the way.

  • Last Performance - "A Moment Like This": Clarkson's final performance on American Idol, singing "A Moment Like This," symbolized the culmination of her journey and the realization of her dreams. She occupied the stage by herself, showcasing her talent and presence as a solo performer.

    • Emotional Response: Clarkson's reaction to her success, expressing disbelief and gratitude, resonated with audiences and emphasized the significance of her achievement relative to her dreams and individualism.

    - Overcoming Narrative: Kelly Clarkson's audition and subsequent success on American Idol represented an overcoming narrative, where she used her talent, determination, and resilience to rise above challenges and achieve her goals.

In summary, Kelly Clarkson's audition and journey on American Idol exemplified the American Dream's themes of self-made success, individualism, and overcoming adversity through talent and determination. Her story resonated with audiences and inspired others to pursue their own dreams despite obstacles they may face

William Hung Audition in American Idol (2004)

  • Anti-Star of American Idol: William Hung's audition for American Idol in 2004 made him an unlikely star, as he gained fame for his unconventional performance and unique personality.

  • Ordinariness in Reference to the American Dream: Hung's audition highlighted the ordinary individual's aspiration to pursue their dreams, even if they may not fit the traditional mold of a successful performer. His willingness to give it a try resonated with many viewers who saw themselves reflected in his courage to take a chance.

  • Overcoming but also Naivety: Hung's participation in American Idol represented an overcoming narrative, as he faced criticism and ridicule but remained confident and positive. However, his naivety regarding his talent and the entertainment industry also became apparent, leading to mixed reactions from the audience.

  • Social Prejudices on Asians: Hung's audition brought to light deeply embedded social prejudices against Asians, as he faced criticism not only for his singing ability but also for his appearance and accent. Despite staying on pitch during his performance, he became a target for ridicule and stereotyping, highlighting systemic biases present in society.

  • Comparison with Kelly Clarkson: Contrasting Hung's experience with Kelly Clarkson's highlights disparities in how individuals are treated in the entertainment industry. Clarkson, being white, attractive, and ultimately successful as an Idol, raises questions about equity and representation in the media. Hung's journey underscores the challenges faced by those who do not fit conventional standards of beauty or talent.

Epoll questions

  • Musician Stevie Wonder recorded a critical album in 2006 titled Living with War.  

    My Answer: True

  • They received death threats as a result of comments perceived as "anti-American."   My Answer: The Dixie Chicks

  • This tribute concert raised $160 million in funds that were donated to the United Way September 11th Telethon Fund:  

    My Answer: America: A Tribute to Heroes