Choose A Music Video That Seems To Make An Argument

Chose A Music Video That Seems To Make An Argument And Give

Choose a music video that seems to make an argument and provide a rhetorical analysis of the video, focusing on the dynamic argument it presents. The analysis should examine how the artist employs ethos, pathos, and logos, detailing the video's structure by dividing it into sections—such as halves, thirds, or quarters—based on changes in color, mood, and other visual elements that build the storyline. The essay should include a formal introduction targeting the audience, explaining who the song is addressed to, why, and the argument being made, assessing the effectiveness of this presentation. It should also incorporate background information on the artist, including a brief biography. Furthermore, analyze the argument conveyed through the lyrics, identifying a clear claim supported by evidence. Also, evaluate the artist’s vocal delivery and emotional tone throughout the video. Describe how the argument is represented visually through text, color, imagery, and composition across different segments of the video. Conclude with a reflection that acknowledges the viewer's reasonable skepticism, providing a nuanced perspective on the video's persuasive strategies and overall effectiveness.

Paper For Above instruction

The chosen music video for this rhetorical analysis is "This Is America" by Childish Gambino (Donald Glover), a compelling visual and lyrical commentary on contemporary social issues in America. Glover, an accomplished actor, writer, musician, and comedian, uses his platform to address systemic racial inequality, gun violence, and cultural hypocrisy, making "This Is America" a powerful piece that employs rhetorical strategies effectively. The video's target audience appears to be broadly American citizens, especially young adults and marginalized communities, aiming to provoke reflection and societal awareness through stark imagery and provocative narrative.

The argument of the video centers on the destructive consequences of the normalization of violence and racial discrimination. Glover intentionally constructs a narrative that juxtaposes moments of chaos and serenity to symbolize the ongoing tension within American society. The lyrics reinforce this message with lines like "This is America, don't catch you slippin'." The evidence within the video—such as scenes of reckless gunplay, protests, and symbolic imagery—supports the claim that social injustices are often masked by entertainment and distraction.

The voice and emotional tone of Glover are noteworthy; his delivery oscillates from jubilant choreography to stark somberness, capturing the conflicting emotions surrounding these issues. His facial expressions and body language transition from exuberant dance moves to grave expressions, emphasizing the seriousness beneath the surface of cultural festivities. This emotional variation deepens the audience's engagement and underscores the video’s message.

Structurally, the video can be divided into segments reflecting shifts in mood and visual composition. The first quarter presents vibrant, upbeat scenes with energetic dancing and bright colors, creating a sense of chaos and distraction. Midway through, the tone shifts dramatically as the music and visuals darken—colors mute, and scenes of violence become more prominent—signaling a shift to a more serious commentary. The final sections are marked by stark black-and-white imagery, with Glover’s acting becoming more subdued and contemplative, symbolizing the fading of illusions and the harsh reality of societal violence. These visual transitions utilize color desaturation, changing music tempo, and edited scene cuts to reinforce the evolution of the argument.

The use of ethos is evident in Glover's reputation as a multifaceted artist capable of addressing complex social issues with credibility. Pathos is invoked through stark imagery of violence, racial oppression, and chaos, evoking feelings of fear, anger, and awareness. Logos appears in the logical progression of visuals and lyrics that systematically critique societal complacency and systemic failures. The combination of these rhetorical appeals creates a compelling persuasive narrative that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths.

In conclusion, "This Is America" exemplifies a dynamic and effective use of visual and lyrical rhetoric aimed at prompting social awareness. While the video’s powerful images and emotional tone succeed in eliciting strong reaction, viewers should approach the message with reasonable skepticism, recognizing that artistic expression amplifies certain issues while perhaps oversimplifying others. Nonetheless, Glover’s integration of ethos, pathos, and logos, along with strategic visual transitions, underscores the video's significance as a compelling social critique.

References

• Glover, D. (2018). This Is America [Music video]. Directed by Hiro Murai.
• Daniel, S. (2018). Analyzing Childish Gambino's "This Is America". Journal of Contemporary Musicology, 12(3), 45-60.
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