|Reflection 1: But Is It Music?—Inside the Electronic Music Debate

Like any other art form, music must contend with advancements in technology. And like any other artists, musicians must decide what to embrace and what to reject. In the case of electronic music, battle lines were quickly drawn between "legitimate" musicians and those willing to forge into new territories. In the 70s and 80s, the objects of scorn were often Disco (e.g. Donna Summer, Giorgio Moroder) and New Wave (e.g. Duran Duran, Yaz, Depeche Mode, New Order). Though often acclaimed today, these records were routinely derided for their reliance on computers, drum machines, and synthesizers. In the 21st century, the debate continues. This time, it is primarily over Electronic Dance Music (EDM). In an era where DJs command as much attention as singers and musicians, many rebuff EDM as "electronic noises you’re trying to pass off as music." Whether its Synth Pop, Electronica, Trance, House, or Techno, will electronic music ever achieve full critical acceptance? Must music involve an instrument and a player to be legitimately considered music? Finally, who gets to decide what is and isn't music?

Include at least two of the following in your discussion:

• "Bleep So Hard: A Staunch, Unironic Defense of EDM" (Bullett Media)
• "Dave Grohl: His Grammys Speech about Electronic Music was Bullshit" (LA Weekly) 
• "EDM sucks. But why?" (Conductr)
• "Is EDM a Real Genre?" (Noisey)
• "Forgive Us Our Synths–How 80s Pop Found Favour Again" (Guardian)
• "Are DJs musicians? They certainly need talent ..." (Sound On Sound)

Required:

• MLA Style
• Works cited 
• Two full pages in length

Due: Fri 9.15