Popular Music- Michael Buble

Popular Music Homework-

The Song I have chosen was “Haven’t met you yet” by Michael Buble. I was able to find the original and acoustic version of this song at YouTube. This following response will identify and outline the similarities and differences between the original and acoustic versions in relation to three concepts of music including: duration, dynamics and expressive techniques and texture/ performing media.

Duration: In the original version the beat of the song was very strong which could be heard by the beat of the drum constantly playing. This was different to the acoustic version in that it was not very strong but it was just steady. Another difference is the tempo or speed of the pulse/beat. In the original version, the speed was moderato. However, the speed of the acoustic version was just a bit slower than moderato (andante) which added to the feel of the music. Tempo and the beat where the only major things different in relation to duration.

Dynamics & Expressive Techniques: I have noticed that the original version had greater use of accented notes or staccatos which added to the feel of being ‘pop’ and ‘upbeat’. On the other hand, the acoustic version sounded smoother, suave, and legato. As well as this, it is evident that the original piece was playing (on average), mezzo forte (verses) to forte (chorus/climax). In the acoustic piece, it was more soft- piano (verses) to mezzo forte (chorus/climax).

Texture: In the original version of this piece, we hear a collaboration of different instruments playing including: piano, electric guitar, bass, trumpet, drums, male vocal (Michael Buble). It begins with the piano and builds on to vocals and the other instruments, each playing its own melody. Thus this piece is polyphonic. In the acoustic version, there is just an acoustic guitar and male vocal. The acoustic guitar harmonises to accompany the male vocal. The male vocal sings the melody of the song. Thus, this version is seen as homophonic....