According to Richard Dyer's Star Theory, music artists are primarily manufactured for money purposes; for the record label to benefit from them financially. The artist is essentially a construct representing a real person. Key parts of his theory include the ideas of hegemony and character and personality. He claims that the artist will often have a cultural attitude that is shared with fans or inspires fans. Also their personalities may come across in the lyrics or in a music video, which would then be admired by fans. Essentially, there is something about an artist that makes fans relate to them. This theory is relevant to my ideas below as it justifies why the following artists were able to appeal to me through their image and music.
Awolnation |
| Awolnation |
Who are they?
Awolnation is an electronic rock band signed to Red Bull Records which also produces alternative rock and dance music. It is fronted by Aaron Bruno and the other members are Kenny Carkeet, Zach Irons, Isaac Carpenter
and Marc Walloch. They released their first studio album, Megalithic Symphony, in March 2011, which featured "Sail"- their most notable hit, peaking at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100, #4 on the Billboard Rock Songs chart, and #5 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.
Sail - Awolnation
Appeal & Sound
I admire the energy and excitement that their songs contain, they are perfect to listen to when you are angry or as music to dance to. The lead singer's vocals always sound passionate and meaningful which allows you to connect more to the lyrics, which often carry deep meanings. They are also relatable, which is something we should consider when picking our song. They also have a similar fan base to the ones I have been thinking about:
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| From a video on Awolnation's Facebook Page - the fans at this concert are of young ages |
Their songs are often energetic
Style
I like the general, cool feel that this band seem to have. They are all young and this can be seen in the images below. They seem to do lots of interesting things and make the most of their lives, and this relaxed, down to earth attitude can have a positive affect on fans.
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| Screenshots of images on Awolnation's website |
They also have a contemporary style, in terms of clothing. They have the typical rock look but with an edge of uniqueness. This reinforces the idea that they are a relatable band; nothing they wear is out of the ordinary and so fans can dress like them, if they want to.
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| Skinny jeans/black clothing = typical rock dress |
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| Ripped shorts/checked shirt is typical but colours and jewellery are not |
MØ
Who is she?
Her real name is Karen Marie Ørsted but MØ. She is a Danish singer/songwriter signed to Sony Music Entertainment. She fits the electronic/alternative dance/indie pop/R&B genres. Her debut album 'No Mythologies to Follow' was released in March 2014. Her first entry on the chart was with her 2014 Iggy Azalea collaboration single 'Beg For It,' which peaked at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2015 she featured on Major Lazer and DJ Snake's hit 'Lean On' which peaked at number 4 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the UK Singles Chart.
Appeal & Sound
I love the unique sound of her voice and her tone. I also enjoy the upbeat feel to her songs, which usually have a fast-tempo backing track and beat. They are normally feel good songs that evoke happiness or make you want to dance. There is an indie feel to her voice which also makes the songs relaxing. Most importantly, her songs have the effect of reminding to embrace your youth and enjoy life. It makes a change to have an artist that writes happy, positive songs about life.
Her songs are upbeat but soothing
Style
She sums her style up perfectly: 'grunge meets street.'She has a fun style that's simultaneously quirky and trendy. However, her fashion also has a sexy feel to it. I think young girls and women like her style as many of the clothes in fashion can fit under these categories. In terms of her hairstyles, they are normally quite bold and crazy, but in a cool way.
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| She has a vibrant, grunge/street style, often consisting of baggy jumpers, vintage jackets, cropped vests and mini shorts/skirts |
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