Impact of Music

Prior to this class I never put much thought into music or the effects it can have. In my life music is background noise and is constantly playing whether I’m listening to it while walking to class, doing homework, working out, driving, or just relaxing. However, I never realized the impact certain types of music and songs can have on one’s emotions. “The Star-Spangled Banner” is a prime example of this. Growing up sports were my true passion and consumed my life. Before every game the “National Anthem” was played and I felt pride for my country as I looked up at the American flag. My grandfather was a veteran and when the "National Anthem" plays I remember him and as well as all the other soldiers who risked their lives fighting for us and I am grateful. The first verse of “The Star-Spangled Banner”, our “National Anthem”, celebrates victory. It makes listeners feel patriotic and empowered. It also gives a sense of unity among the citizens of the United States. The last line “o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave” gives a feeling of opportunity and a sense that you can do anything. We, Americans, are strong and can’t be defeated. 

I was unaware that “The Star-Spangled Banner” had four verses and I had only ever heard the one that is used in the “National Anthem”. When analyzing the other verses, the third one is much darker and degrading. It depicts Francis Scott Key’s feeling of betrayal of the slaves when they chose to fight alongside the British after being promised their freedom in return. Negative connotation was included when describing the slaves using phrases such as “their foul footsteps’ pollution”. In the third verse, Key wrote that the slaves got what was coming to them and deserved to die. Where the first verse is very patriot and makes people proud, this third verse does just the opposite. When hearing it people may be ashamed and think negatively of American. The verses of "The Star-Spangled Banner" are just one example but music in general has the power to call attention to different ideas or events and change the way people may perceive them.