Rhythm

Rhythm

Rhythm is a key element of music as it does much to establish the feel of the piece.  The meter, the hierarchy of beats, and the way the vocal part aligns with the melody all influence the rhythm’s effect on the listener. 

Justin Timberlake’s “Drink You Away” is in 6/8, giving the piece a swinging feel.  There is an emphasis on beat 1 but an even heavier emphasis on beat 4 which contributes to the piece’s forward propulsion.  The verses are heavily syncopated, with quick vocal subdivisions adding excitement and unpredictability.  Things simplify considerably in the chorus, as the voice sticks to the basic divisions of the beat supported by basic 1 2 3 4 5 6 accompaniment.  These sections contrast nicely, giving both excitement and stability to the work.

“Stiches” by Shawn Mendes is in a rhythmically active 4/4 meter.  The accompaniment heavily emphasizes beat 2 and 4 while the voice stays on beats 1 and 3.  This gives a catchy, active feel to the work.  The most prominent rhythmic element occurs in the vocal line at the end of the verse and throughout the chorus.  (See 0:55 and 1:08). This 1&2&3 4 rhythm sticks out from the surrounding material and sticks in the listener’s mind.  (Shawn Mendes is obviously aware of the rhythm as he runs perfectly in sync with the beat at 3:09).

“Hello” by Adele is much more sedate in tempo and beat pattern.  Its 4/4 meter is extremely steady with heavy downbeats.  The vocal line adds all rhythmic variety, consisting primarily of even subdivisions, though there are occasional syncopations in the chorus.  The subdued rhythmic world contributes to the song’s reflective mood. 

Meghan Trainor’s “Lose You” is very rhythmically free.  The vocal line meanders over an accompaniment in swung 4/4 with emphasis on 2 and 4.  The voice frequently departs from the beat structure, returning at major markers.  The rhythmic effects are crucial to the overall feel of the work. 

“Sorry” by Justin Bieber is very rhythmically active.  The 4/4 meter, confirmed by down beat emphasis, is enlivened by and emphasis on the “and” of beat 2.  The resulting 1   & 3 4 adds energy and excitement to the work.  This effect continues in the vocal line.  Though it generally lines up with the 4/4 meter, frequent subdivisions maintain the lively feel. 

      

~Ellyn