“What exactly is rock and roll?” Give examples from the video below.
Peer 1:
Rock and roll is a way to bring opposing groups together. While tensions in America were high, stated in the video, many could agree that rock and roll was easily enjoyable for both sides. Not only in America was it a joint force for different groups, it was also an international joint for different rock and roll scenes. In American Pie, the song gives references to significant aesthetic moments in American culture, for example, Elvis Presley’s jacket giving reference to James Dean’s “Rebel Without A Cause.” It also proved to be a media source for significant events; Bob Dylan being symbolized as a rebel and John Lennon giving light to controversial and dark topics. Rock and roll was an emotional and political outlet and a host for different events in history. Think of how influential and violent the Altamont Speedway Free Festival concert was. It practically ended the 60’s hippie movement and displayed how powerful the genre can be. The genre has changed from one unknown sound and twisted and altered itself into so many tunes and rhythms over so many years. Rock and roll has shown to be a connecting yet simultaneously destructive force for everyone in the scene. Rock and roll has many potential meanings but for me, it symbolizes hope, greed, angst, power, and connection. The definition of rock and roll hasn’t ever stayed singular for very long over the years and continues to grow as more artists emerge into the scene and transform the genre.
Peer 2:
Rock and roll can be defined more as a way to express the history of American society, culture, and music. On Feb. 3rd, 1959, a plane crash with three rock and roll artists (Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, &The Big Bopper) occurred near Clear Lake, Iowa leaving fans worried that this would be the end of rock and roll. The song American Pie written by Don McLean was dedicated to the passengers of the tragic plane crash. Not only was it dedicated to the passengers, but it referred to how America was back in the 1950s. American Pie contains lyrics that were created by references from a few of the top hits in the 1950s. This would include the Book of Love & A White Sport Coat. During the 1950s, America was numerous amounts facing racism and sexism. Most of the rock and roll songs have a further symbolic meaning within their lyrics. An example of this would be The Sergeants by the Beetles. This song referred to how American soldiers have fought in the Vietnam War and how it has changed the world’s perception on the world stage. Lastly, the Altamont Speedway Free Festival was created in order to create a new era for the hippies. As the Rolling Stones got on stage to perform, the audience who was intoxicated with alcohol, disliked what they heard and caused a commotion between each other – leading to a woman being stabbed to death. The ’60s was a decade that contained a lot of change and progress throughout the American culture. Rock and roll from the ’50 to the ’70s contributed to the change of American culture and society.
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