Can Popular Music Ever Really Be Unplugged?

Popular music can definitely not be unplugged. As the opening quote for Friday’s lecture states, “...without electronic technology popular music in the 21st century is unthinkable” (Paul Theberge). The reason behind this is because all music that is currently popular requires certain technology to develop the music (for example: microphones, electric guitars, electric amps, etc). Taking away the technological elements which create the popular music would essentially change the nature of popular music. Throughout the generations, popular music has always incorporated new technology to keep up with changing times. For example, the development of the microphone led to a new “crooning” style of singing which became popular in the 1920s. Thus, without the technology which already exists or without new and improved technology, what we consider popular music would cease to be popular causing the entire idea behind “popular music” to need to be redefined.

What is 'Popular Music'?

Popular music is a genre of music which is difficult to define. The definition of ‘popular’ has changed throughout the years which has additionally altered the meaning of ‘popular music’. I believe it is impossible to completely and accurately define popular music through using any single definition of the word ‘popular’ which have been developed throughout history. However, I agree with the definitions of popular which define ‘popular’ as belonging to the people or of common people (as in the 16th century definition) because the recognisable nature of this music which is deemed as ‘popular music’. Another important factor that is part of ‘popular music’ is that popular music changes from culture to culture (for example, I don’t know who Ellie Goulding is). Although I cannot formulate a full definition of ‘popular music’, both of these factors have to be considered when describing ‘popular music’ to form a basic understanding of its essence.