Introduction

• Instructor welcomes students and discusses the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.

• Overview of today's lecture focused on modern music, expected to be relatively short.

• Mention of miscellaneous in-class assignments included in the syllabus.

Miscellaneous Assignments

• Announcement that assignments will be published tonight and due on Sunday.

• Assignments to consist of five questions based on topics discussed during class.

• Assurance that the assignments will be straightforward, with the ability to rewatch class videos for information, encouraging students to earn a perfect score.

Modern Artists and Dance

• Increased emphasis on choreography and dance in modern music, particularly due to television's influence.

• Historically, dance has accompanied music, but the standards for choreography have become significantly higher.

• Example of Michael Jackson:

  • Recognized as both an exceptional musician and dancer.

  • Known for elaborate dance routines which set a high standard in the industry.

• Discussion of Michael Jackson's performance of "Billie Jean" and the importance of dance in his music.

The Moonwalk

• Analysis of the iconic moonwalk dance move:

  • Michael Jackson was heavily inspired by fellow artist Lemie Marceau, a renowned mime.

  • Marceau's performances included influences that contributed to Michael's styles.

  • Moonwalk was not an original invention by Jackson but drawn from Marceau's routines.

  • Exploration of performance techniques and the physics behind the movements (e.g., walking against the bench).

• Connection to the blurry line between inspiration and copying in artistic expression.

Choreography in Modern Music

• Presentation of the choreography "Mexican Breakfast":

  • Notable as a precursor to another famous choreography.

• A comparison of the choreography in "Mexican Breakfast" with Beyoncé’s "Single Ladies":

  • Different music and costumes, yet many similar moves.

  • Discussion on how the choreography enhances a song's success beyond just the music.

Beatboxing as a Unique Genre

• Brief overview of beatboxing and its evolution:

  • Originated in the 1980s and has significantly advanced in complexity and popularity.

  • Described as a response to the creation of new musical instruments, leveraging the human voice to mimic rhythmic and percussive sounds.

• Example of pioneer beatboxer Darren "Buffy" Robinson from the Fat Boys:

  • Showcases classic hip hop beats, setting a foundation for future beatboxing.

Contemporary Beatboxing

• Highlighting modern beatboxing competitions and their global reach, particularly in Asia.

• Introduction of a champion beatboxer called Wing from South Korea:

  • Notable for an impressive range of sounds and techniques.

• Incorporation of multimedia, showcasing beatboxing combined with other instruments (e.g., flute).

• Introduction of the extraordinary talent Shogo from Japan:

  • Able to create multiple complex sounds simultaneously, highlighting human creativity.

Conclusion and Assignments

• Reminder of the miscellaneous assignments which are crucial for grading, and the regular test status.

• Instructor encourages students not to panic about grades as grading 2,400 assignments is a time-consuming process.

• A promise to deliver grades before the finals.

• Wishing students a happy Thanksgiving before concluding the lecture.