Live Musical Performances: Jason Mraz and Kelly Clarkson - Essay Example

? Reviews of Live Musical Performances: Jason Mraz and Kelly Clarkson Watching live music performances just give us, the audience members, a certain rush that encourages us to learn more about artists and support their passion for music (Inglis 2006). For instance, the live performance of Jason Mraz that I had an opportunity to watch exemplified a relaxed and laid-back setting in which a variety of fast-paced and slow songs were played for the audience. Although there was a lack of electric guitar, the set won the audience as it was comprised of a saxophone, bongos, drums, a bass guitar and keyboards along with the ukulele that has been typically associated with Jason Mraz in previous music videos and concerts. The use of the horns was also demonstrated particularly through the songs from his “We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things” album. Majority of the songs were guitar-driven; for example, the song “Details in the Fabric” was played acoustic and although it had a slow pace, the performance of the song just moved along without becoming dull or boring. Other songs, such as the “Dynamo of Volition”, were delivered in a poppy and upbeat manner that reminded me of the tracks written in his first album. Actually, I observed that most of the tracks performed during the concert were interrelated with each other in such a way that their lyrics and rhythm created a balance among these songs. The artist’s cover of “Summer Breeze” expressed Jason’s sentimental and light rock appeal that spurred the crowd, especially the female members of the audience. A song that was composed with the Wailers, “Anything You Want”, exemplified the influence that reggae has brought upon some of his songs. Major hits, including “Remedy”, “I’m Yours”, and “A Beautiful Mess” kept the young audience interested throughout the show. However, he showed poor performance when he attempted to rap on “Curbside Prophet” as well as when he invited guest singers to do the rap with him, resulting to an unfavorable collaboration. Nonetheless, the rest of songs expressed Jason’s way of carrying out things in an easy-going manner. The songwriting of Jason Mraz increased the replayability of his tracks and has proven that his talent and passion for music will be appreciated for over a long time. The attitude of the audience was characterized by a loose spirit and good vibes which made the show even more appealing and distinct. Because many of the tracks were directed towards the more personal side of an individual, many of those who were watching were captured by the verses. Thus, the concert was able to successfully stir up favorable responses from the audience, including myself. Because the live performance was set up in an open venue, this added a more carefree and laidback feeling to the performers and the audience as well; they were also very open and receptive of the songs. Positive impressions were sure to be gathered from the concert goers along with fresh memories that could last a lifetime. The outdoor venue was beneficial in such a way that it could attract more attendees as it could accommodate more attendees; on the other hand, I think an indoor venue could be more useful as it could provide both the performers and the audience with the benefit of being protected from weather-related elements or other issues that could have a negative effect on performances in outdoor venues. The concert of Jason Mraz also exemplified a situation wherein trash removal and restrooms were an issue for some people that I have observed; if an indoor venue was selected for this performance, there will be fewer or no issues on the facilities. Nonetheless, majority of the audience, including myself, was more positively influenced by the actual music performance which evoked positive feelings and impressions among us. Another performance that I have been to was that of Kelly Clarkson that clearly expressed her strong personality and robust voice. The song arrangements were primarily comprised of string instruments, the piano, and drums; many of these tracks performed were written and arranged by composers and producers who acquired considerable fame over the years themselves, including Ryan Tedder of One Republic and Howard Benson, who is known for producing a wide range of modern rock hits. Owing to the fact that the songs Kelly performed were either dance-pop, rock, or adult contemporary ballad, the audience members were very much pleased due to such variety. Her songs have also been very much personal and reach out towards the individual who is experiencing a similar situation. Thus, due to such sincerity and truthfulness, many in the audience members were very much moved. Although the songs she performed had similar themes or meanings, Kelly and her group found a way to not make the arrangements sound too predictable or alike to each other. Songs from her previous albums, including “Since U Been Gone”, “You Found Me”, and “Walk Away” kept many of the audience members expecting for more hits while tracks from her latest album, such as “Already Gone” and “All I Ever Wanted” increased the interest levels among the attendees, especially from the younger ones. However, some of the songs, I believe, sounded similar to the songs of other female pop artists such as Katy Perry, Rihanna, or Beyonce Knowles. It would probably be most favorable if the songs performed exemplified a new and original sound that could entirely express Kelly’s inventiveness in songwriting. The concert was performed at an outdoor venue as well; however, the grandstand caused certain problems. For instance, since there were fewer people expected, the sound energy bounced off the empty seats and slightly combined with the sound that was produced directly by the speakers. Consequently, this caused an inadequate clarity for the vocals and reduced our appreciation for and interest towards the performance. Nonetheless, sound problems could not keep the energy level of the audience members at a minimum level. The attendees still expressed deep gratefulness for the songs performed by Kelly, especially due to their mainstream and catchy tunes along with enlivening vocals and an inherent unique personality. As a result, the audience had a good time. Many of them, in particular, appreciated the attributes and qualities that Kelly Clarkson possesses which make her stand out from other female artists. Her passion and candor, not just in songwriting but in performing live as well, can attract both the present generation as well as future listeners. The straightforwardness that she incorporates in everything that she writes and performs empowers her listeners in such a way that they are strengthened and encouraged in different aspects of their lives. I believe that the Kelly Clarkson concert I attended was one of the common ways that exemplify this artist’s enthusiasm for music and determination to express her thoughts and beliefs. Being able to do so, I think the performance was rather successful. References: Inglis, Ian. Performance and popular music: history, place, and time. Burlington: Ashgate Publishing, 2006. Read More