The Gray Area with Sean Illing

Pop music can make you smarter

Mar 6, 2019
Nate Sloan, a musicologist and co-host of the insightful podcast 'Switched on Pop', dives into the intricate world of pop music. He explores how melody and lyrics work together to create emotional depth, enhancing the listener's experience. Sloan sheds light on the cultural influences behind Camila Cabello's 'Havana' and the transformative journey of the 808 drum machine in modern music. The conversation also highlights the impact of female artists and connects notable songs to broader cultural critiques, revealing how pop can shape our understanding of identity.
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INSIGHT

Focus on Music

  • Switched on Pop focuses on the musicality of pop music, not celebrity gossip.
  • They analyze how music functions and explain its workings.
INSIGHT

Pop Music's Importance

  • Pop music, often dismissed as lowest common denominator, deserves serious inquiry.
  • It reflects important cultural aspects and artistic creativity.
ANECDOTE

Nate's Conversion

  • Nate Sloan initially disliked pop music.
  • A dentist visit changed his perspective after he chose to listen attentively.
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