I have chosen to analyse the genre of pop music as it has such a broad audience and there are many different aspects of it. Pop music

is derived from the term ‘popular music' so this is anything that would fit into the mainstream category. I personally do not like pop that much but I think it will be interesting to look deeper in to and find out exactly why people like it and what their influences have

been. With some of the countries main radio stations being almost primarily devoted to this genre, it draws in millions of listeners

through catchy choruses and repeated verses. The use of pop is used in the background of many TV shows, films and even shops.

The ‘UK Top 40' focuses around the best selling tracks of that specific week, nearly all of them being of this genre, hence the

‘popular' tag.

This genre is one that has been around for decades with the term ‘pop song' first being used in 1926 along with the publication of sheet

music. Pop music history states that the term ‘pop music' originated in Britain in the mid-1950s which implied ‘concerts appealing to a wide audience' or ‘the non classical music, usually in the form of songs', performed by such artists as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Abba,

etc. Figures such as Michael Jackson have been key in the genre's history as they have been deemed ‘icons' and inspirations to others in the

industry.

The genre has changed a lot over time as it is drawn towards what is relevant at that time, therefore a pop song in the 70's will have largely

noticeable changes to one in the 21st century. Technology has also changed over time so the production of the music will also alter the

sound a lot, the use of auto tune and drum and bass beats have created a very new sound compared to the ones when pop was just starting out. With the use of music technology, it's possible to record an entire track without even the use of instruments, as they can all just be added in effects afterwards, it also allows the use of 'artificial talent' to break

through the business through the use of voice changers and improvement.

TV shows such as X Factor and Pop Idol have given everyday people a chance to become a success in the pop genre, bands such as JLS, Girls Aloud and One Direction, some of the

biggest names in this category are all products of reality talent shows. This shows as long as they are marketable, of reasonable talent and popular amongst the public, they will become a big brand name. Magazines are also a key factor in the success of pop music, because they want to promote and advertise features

that are ‘popular' to stay one step ahead, they will use big names on the cover to draw the reader in. Newspapers such as The Sun run

promotional offers such as ‘See One Direction for £9.50' where the reader has to collect 10

tokens from the newspaper, buying one everyday to be in with a chance to see their favourite stars. This makes money for the

institution by upping their sales and bringing in readers who wouldn't usually be interested, and the band themselves, being paid by the

newspaper and giving them a series of promotional work.

Pop music is liked by so many for a very simple reason, it's very basic and easy to grasp the lyrics of. Songs such as ‘Call me maybe by Carly

Rae Jepsen' were a success worldwide due to recurring lyrics and up tempo backing tracks. The constant over play of these tracks makes us bored very easily, but with the chart completely altering once a

week, there's always something new. Many micro elements make up the genre, for example, the vocals, instruments, the individual or

groups style and behaviour and general image. I will take into account these features when creating my own magazine as I realise these are

important elements that make the product whole.

Sexualisation is nowadays a big contributing factor in pop music iconography, with the motto of ‘sex sells’– lyrics, general portrayal and clothing are becoming increasingly risky as time goes on. Bands such as ‘The Pussycat Dolls’ are famed for their skimpy clothing and innuendo

filled lyrics and artists such as Katy Perry and Lady Gaga have built their careers upon explicit images, dance moves and song content.

Some music videos have even been dubbed as ‘soft porn’- Rihanna has had the video for the hit ‘S&M’banned in 11 countries due to

inappropriate messages and adult themes. With the likes of Rihanna being a huge influence to the youngergeneration, their actions and the morals they portray can

have a lot more impact than is sometimes thought, this is why it’simportant that what is shown is sending a good

message and in keeping with the primary target audience age.

• Artists wear latest fashions, set trends and follow them• General themes of songs are linked to love, relationships and sex• Artists are usually portrayed and represented as positive people• Pop stars such as Lady Gaga are usually seen as ‘edgy’ and have a sense of

mystery about them, they connect with the audience but still can be quite withheld. This keeps individuals interested as she is an enigma.

• Pop music videos are often based around a party scene to represent the glamorisation of the industry and the stars lifestyle. They can also go to the other extreme and be very dramatic, almost like a miniature film. The things that both have in common is that they keep the audience hooked and wanting to see more as it is a glimpse into their personal lives.

• A pop star usually has a unique, signature trademark, one that is recognisable by the public, for example, Michael Jackson’s moonwalk.

• Wide range of appeal to many different types of audience, through the use of catchy choruses and verses.