Music: A Revolutionary Tool in Pop Culture

The power of pop culture stories should not be underestimated, and there is an enormous potential for inspirational stories that can have a positive, transformative effect on our lives.” – Anita Sarkeesian. This embodies the significance of pop culture in shaping a political or socio-cultural belief. While deemed by the many as unimportant and meaningless, the influence of pop culture in a nation has proven to manifest for many generations. Pop culture has the capacity to define social norms and boundaries, create new language and rituals and generate a new mindset or perspective.


The power of pop culture has intensified as social media, among other forms of media is able to promote a certain standard of living; in a capitalist and commercial sense. From what we should look like, what we should wear, what kind of music to listen, where to go and the list goes on.

Moreover, the birth of #goals promoted ideas of the dominant social class into the rest of the society. Ideas were not only limited to consumerism; but to the overall aspect of a person’s life. These norms are reinforced continually by actors, models, musicians and now the so-called “social media influencers.” Consequently, pop culture allows us to identify other individuals who has the same set of preferences and be bounded by those similarities.

One of the powerful tools in pop culture for generations is music. Music has always been “an essential part of the human DNA” and those who truly understand how powerful music can be was able to revolutionize a certain culture. Music affects moods and feelings; sway slang language; relive past experiences and even define the cliques you associate with.

As I ponder upon it, certain examples drawn unto me.

For the past decade, Steve Jobs is fully aware of the power of music. Thus, his invention iPod touch was a gateway of Apple’s dominance as a brand. Barack Obama, on one hand used Jay-Z’s song “Dirt Off Your Shoulder” in a speech as a rebuttal against the Clintons. The most indelible advertisement of Pepsi used “We Will Rock You.” The Korean culture became globally known through the rise of K-Pop. Pop music is also a monumental fraction of youth culture. These concrete examples proved that music can truly be potent.

Behind the scenes of Pop Music

While musicians (either individuals or groups) have been the face of music for generations, it is equally important to recognize those who work behind the scenes in producing various genres of music. Example of which is the sound engineers. Sound engineers works on the manipulation of recording music through equalization, effects and mixing. Both a technical and creative job, sound engineers need to have a comprehensive knowledge of engineering techniques and have an ear for music tones. Sound engineers are needed in television, film, concerts, theatre and other live events.

If you are interested to become one, check this sound engineering program that gives you hands-on training in recording and mixing. Another important job in the music industry is the musical director. This person is responsible for the following: studies script and background music, assess the vocal abilities of the cast, leads musical rehearsals, helps develops original composition and works closely with the director and choreographer. Musical directors are expected to have a degree in music, with an extensive training in various areas of musicality.

Overall, there are many things that can shape pop culture; and music is one of the most significant factors. Music is an effective conveyor of our innermost thoughts, desires, aspirations and goals. Thus, people who understand on how to manipulate music in a consumerist climate has a high chance of successfully revolutionizing a particular time and era.

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