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Author Bio

Emilyn Bedell is a Studio Composition major who hopes to pursue entertainment law. Outside of academics, she plays violin for the Symphony Orchestra, is a supervisor at the Student Recreation Center, tutors students in music theory, and analyzes the diversity of the score collection at Presser Music Library.

Abstract

This project studies how music impacts our society by examining the ways popular musicians (Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan, and Hozier) imbue their songs with their identity. Their music engages their authentic self and social interests, effectively communicating their artistic and social values to their audience. This study examines three artists who recently became popular, so there is less established musicological research focused on them. To explore them deeper, I draw on cultural sources such as newspapers and magazines, in addition to academic journals. I also analyze their music and videos alongside recorded interviews to understand the sociopolitical issues for which each artist advocated. Taylor Swift typically avoids musical and political risk. Chappell Roan is stylistically bolder, but acknowledges her political shortcomings outside of music. Hozier makes daring statements musically and through personal appearances. These results highlight the power of popular musicians. Musicians advocate in ways that reflect their identity, better influencing their audiences to make sociopolitical change. Music continues to be an empowering medium for expression and advocacy.

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