The theme for my playlist is "Hands”. I chose this theme because I wanted to challenge myself to research songs from different genres that would tie into one general theme. Hands are greatly important in every culture for various reasons. They achieve the ability to touch, grasp, caress, hold and even feel the texture or temperature of an object. Hands are a form of communication while using sign language and an accompaniment to communication to those who use hand gestures as they speak, like me. Upon first glance, hands exhibit the wisdom of their owner, showing their age and either delicacy or coarseness. All of the songs I chose share the meaning of touch through hands, but differ in the sense of how or why.
The first song I chose is “Take My Hand” by Jerome. This song is part of the electronic genre, and its fast tempo makes it nearly impossible to not move around. The consonance of sounds in this song makes for a pleasant listening experience to those who enjoy techno music. This song connects to the theme because the lyrics include “Take my hand and never let it go, this could be the start of something new”. The meaning of this song shows the unity between two people going forward together who can achieve anything. The structure of the song is repetitive as the lyrics only features the pre-chorus and chorus, consecutively repeated. The emotion of this song is carefree and light and it is a great song to dance to.
The second song I chose is “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles. This song is part of the rock and roll genre, and its harmony ties together between the contrast of vocals, guitar, handclaps, and drums. This song connects to the theme because the chorus repeats the title of the song. The meaning of this song is to express one's fondness to their crush. When the song was released in 1963, chivalry was prominent and people would politely ask to hold their crush’s hand. Listeners who analyze the song will notice that the rhythm of this song is easy to follow along with. This song evokes an emotion of happiness and romanticism. I often find myself snapping my fingers or tapping my foot while listening to this classic hit.
The third song I chose is “U + Ur Hand” by P!nk. This song is part of the pop rock genre, and the song’s dissonance can be heard between the piano and guitar. The sounds from each instrument seem like they clash, like the two people mentioned in the song. This song connects to the theme because the singer brushes off a man that is trying to be with her and keeps telling him “It’s just you and your hand tonight”. The dynamics of this song shows that it should be played loudly, as P!NK is almost yelling as she sings. I have always liked this catchy song because its ruthless emotion is empowering for women, to show that we can say no to men if we are not interested. Upon researching the meaning of this song, I learned that it has received backlash and caused controversy because of its reference to masturbation. I will never be able to listen to the song the same way again, but will still enjoy it, nonetheless.
The fourth song I chose is “The Hand That Rocks The Cradle” by Glen Campbell. This song is part of the country genre, and its rondo makes for a smooth listening experience. The dynamics of the song is low and slow, especially since the meaningful lyrics resemble a lullaby. The meaning of the song evokes a cheerful and delighted emotion when the singer uses story-telling structure to describe a mother caring for her child. The song connects to the theme because the lyrics describe the mother’s hand who rocks the baby’s cradle. I had never heard this song before, but it is now one that I greatly enjoy as it praises mothers for having the hardest job in the world.
The sixth song I chose is “Slow Hands” by Niall Horan. This song is a mix of country and pop genres, and the song evokes a tempting and ethereal emotion. The guitar sounds present in the song show theme and variation, as they continue throughout the song and create an easy melody. The lyrics romantically suggest the meaning of this song is to take things slowly and enjoy loving one another. This song has a slow tempo and dynamic, which is evident as the singer uses a low tone to deliver the lyrics. The lyrics are cheeky and indulgent, as the singer elicits a sexual meaning to the song without mentioning anything risqué. This song makes both hearers and listeners feel good, as it is enjoyable to listen to and sing along, whether you analyze the song or not.
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