Module 6

Module 6 is only focused on the 1970s vernacular music, but many different types of music come into existence during this time period.  Many types of music come out as an alternative to what can be heard on the radio, however, this music becomes just as popular as rock music.  Record companies are now taking full advantage of the technology that allows the 33 1/3 LP to record up to 40 minutes worth of music and the focus is now on the entire album instead of only singles as in the past.  As in the 1960s, there is still a heavy British influence on American popular music, but there are also influences from other cultures as well.  Disco, progressive country, reggae, salsa, punk, new wave, funk, and hip-hop are just some examples of the different types of music that emerge during the 1970s.  Each type of music draws influences from previously recorded music, but utilizes it in different ways.

Elton John’s “Crocodile Rock” is a song that was about music of the 1960s.  It has influence from the 50s and 60s rock n’ roll of the past with the way his chord progression is used and vocal techniques.  This music is starkly different from The Eagles “Hotel California”.  “Hotel California” has a more serious sound to it and utilizes a more acoustic sound, drawing influence from country music, yet still incorporating the electric sound of rock.  The lyrics are telling a pretty serious story, unlike the fun-loving “Crocodile Rock” by Elton John.

As in previous decades, Latin influence on American popular music comes into the light.  Carlos Santana’s “Oye Como Va” became a huge hit in American music in the 1970s.  The inclusion of Latin percussion instruments such the timbales and others is an unlikely addition to the organ and electric guitar “hook”.  The lyrics are also in Spanish, yet this music became very popular within America and this is one of the most well known songs of the 70s.  Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” is also very well known from 70s music, yet it has a very different sound.  The intro incorporates acoustic guitar and baroque recorders that continue throughout the song.  This is a pretty laidback piece in comparison to Santana’s “Oye Como Va”.  The lyrics tell a story and is not mean to be dance music as in other types of 70s music.