Introduction
1) What are your interests towards your chosen music artist?
Paloma has a unique, retro and eccentric style stereotypical of the soul genre which makes her song and image easy to recreate and understand.
2) What inspired you to create a music video with this artist in mind?
My group and I had a strong desire to use the soul genre as our chosen music genre to work within and Paloma embodies this with her videos and sound which connects and relates to people emotionally yet still uses video to emphasis this rather than relying on the lyrics.
Artist profile
1) Include a brief biography of your artist and include the most significance events.
Paloma faith was born in 1981 and is best known for her work as a singer-songwriter and actress.
Her ultimate success within the music industry has seen Paloma received three BRIT Award nominations, including British Female Solo Artist and Best British Album. However Paloma has also had a brief career as an actress making a feature film appearance in the 2007 popular school girl film 'St Trinians'. Her acting career also extended to Faith securing roles in both 'The Imaginarium' of Doctor Parnassus' and 'Dread'.
2) What record label your artist is signed to?
Paloma faith is signed to the record labels Epic and RCA. Both are well established and respected within the music industry signing some of the biggest names within the charts. For instance Epic records is based in New York and is distributed by Sony Music Entertainment and signs various artists such as Nicole Scherzinger, Fifth Harmony and the late Michael Jackson. On the other hand RCA is too based in New York and is distributed by Sony Music Entertainment in the US and RCA Label Group outside the US. RCA, apart from Paloma herself signs leading artists in the industry such as Beyonce, Brittany Spears, Usher, Justin Timberlake and Miley Cyrus.
3) Include information on the number of sales the artist has, with singles, albums.
She first appeared on the music scene in 2009 releasing her debut album 'Do you Want the Truth or Something Beautiful?' which reached number 9 on the UK charts featuring the popular singles 'Stone Cold Sober' and 'New York' both reaching top 20 in the charts. The album was later certified as double-platinum as was her second studio album, 'Fall to Grace'. The album produced her first top 10 single 'Picking Up the Pieces' and reached number 2 in the UK album charts. Faiths third and most successful album to date 'A Perfect Contradiction' was released early 2014 and included the top 10 singles 'Can't rely on you' and my groups chosen Paloma single 'Only Love Can Hurt Like This'. Overall Paloma has produced 3 Albums, 13 Singles and 1 EP.
Artist music video analysis
1) How is Dyer’s star theory used?
Paloma can be seen as a product as she has chosen to perform and narrate the video herself using her popularity and image to link and identify the video increasing the videos like ability and views from her target audience.
Paloma is represented as both ordinary and extraordinary within the music video as she is shown to have relationship and trust issues relatable to the everyday person which would be comforting to her fans who can see that despite her star power she too goes through similar issues making her more relate able to the audience. However the use of clothing and the scenarios she places herself within show her to be extraordinary as they are unfamiliar scenarios to the audience making her life seem heightened and more intense.
The video too places fans for hegemony as the stars influential power has been used to show women how they do not need a man or relationship to be happy and successful. This is as it is socially thought of that a person will find a partner in life and get married and 'start' life but by showing that relationships don't work out she promotes an independent view that women should have the courage to determine their own lives as opposed to relying on others.
2) How is Goodwin’s theory used?
Godwin also states that in order to be successful there needs to be a relationship between lyrics and visuals within the music video.The line 'can't rely on you' is constantly repeated throughout whilst Paloma is shown to be badly treated by different men within different scenes. This suggests the idea that bad relationships are a reoccurring theme and she is constantly betrayed with love however it could show how to empower women who feel reliant upon the male figure showing that you don't need a man as all they do is hurt you and leave. This is shown as each man leaves the setting showing Paloma alone however the final clip is of her exiting through door alone suggesting she has now gained independence and courage.
A fifth element of Godwin's theory tells that there is often particularly voyeuristic treatment of the females body. This is present within the music video as Paloma is shown both just in her under ware and topless. This shows off her body appealing to the male genre and also helps connote the relationship shown of screen as intimate and serious.
Finally Godwin states that a video needs to be performance based narrative based or concept based. The video for 'Can't rely on you' would be identified as following a narrative base as Paloma chooses to portray the lyrics to the audience. She chooses to do this as opposed to just performing the lyrics as the soul genre is based upon emotions and the message through the lyrics needs support from a visual as it plays on emotions. However their is also an underlying moral concept as Paloma seems to be empowering women through the message at the beginning and end showing everyone is cheated by love before finishing with 'This is just the beginning' to leave people with an optimistic feel.
3) How is the artist represented?
As an artist Paloma is represented as emotionally needy and mistrusting. This is as as the video progresses and each of the men featured within the music video leave Paloma's character her emotional turmoil increases showing that she doesn't necessarily cope well with rejection. To be more specific, when left in the car which is rolling down a heel Paloma is shown to remain stationary with a looking of fear whilst searching out of the windows for someone to help her instead of taking the initiative to help and save herself suggesting a lack of independence.
4) Who is the target audience?
The target audience for this song is scorned lovers typical fans of the soul genre. As a result of this the video therefore relates to both genders appealing to a potential mass fan base however the musical style and narrative would mainly appeal to that of women as Paloma acts out a scenario from a woman's point of view.
5) How is mise-en-scene used?
In terms of setting and iconography the music video setting links to the song as Paloma is shown in a bedroom sharing the bed with her partner which
To add to this the music videos use of facial expressions and body language throughout the video is heightened to show her deep emotional trauma and to demonstrate her upset and hurt.
6) What common camera shots does the music video use?
There are a lot of mid and establishing shots used within the music video as the videos narrative follows different story lines as Paloma portrays multiple characters so could be suggesting as a technique for the audience to differentiate with and gain a better understanding of the concept within each scenario. However as the song is about not being able to rely on a partner as Paloma is shown through these shots alone it could be a technique to exaggerate and highlight her being alone without anyone around to help her or for her 'to rely on'.
Another common shot used throughout the music video is close ups. This is as Paloma's fan base and viewers would desire these shots so they can identify with the artist so there would be added influence from the record label to include these shots. This is particularly important within the music video as Paloma is show to be embodying different ulta egos and characters so the close ups of her face are needed to link each shot together and highlight her transformation. Through being able to properly see her face Paloma's target audience are then able to build a relationship with the artist as they have a stronger understanding of her appearance and can therefore identify her easier and relate her to themselves. This use of cinematography also shows the artist as a regular person showing them as ordinary and relate able.
1) How is Dyer’s star theory used?
Paloma can be seen as a product as she has chosen to perform and narrate the video herself using her popularity and image to link and identify the video increasing the videos like ability and views from her target audience.
Paloma is represented as both ordinary and extraordinary within the music video as she is shown to have relationship issues relatable to the everyday person which would be comforting to her fans who can see that despite her star power she too goes through similar issues making her more relatable to the audience. However the use of clothing and the scenarios she places herself within show her to be extraordinary as they are unfamiliar scenarios to the audience making her life seem heightened and more intense.
2) How is Goodwin’s theory used?
Godwin also states that in order to be successful there needs to be a relationship between lyrics and visuals within the music video. This is evident within the video for Picking Up The Pieces as Paloma's male lead is shown to destructive and reckless causing a scene as he smashes glasses and plates so Paloma is left to remain calm and collected and to almost keep up appearances in order to counteract the males behaviour. This is shown within the lyrics "Now she's gone And I'm picking up the pieces I watch you cry But you don't see that I'm the one by your side". Showing how she's in charge trying her best but has had no recognition.
3) How is the artist represented?
The video for 'Picking Up The Pieces' shows Paloma as cold and emotionless. She is shown to uphold appearances to present herself in a certain way suggesting that the opinions others have of her is more important than her own issues and life troubles as she chooses to conceal her hurt instead turning emotionless to not allow herself to cause trouble. She is also portrayed as alone and cold as she is shown on a bench and throughout the house alone and even when with some else she seems disconnected suggesting she can't let others in. Her inability to perform the narrative as dramatic and hurt could be portrayed as cold as despite appearing facial expressions suggesting ideas of hurt she remains emotionally melancholy.
4) Who is the target audience?
The target audience for this music video is a majority women. This is as Paloma portrays the role of a woman behind a powerful man who does not feel able to express her emotions. As Paloma has a more mature target audience this would relate to them as women may be going through a similar situation within their own relationships where they may be unhappy but choose to continue within the relationship as may look at their downfall as a brief blip and pursue forward in hope of returning to a happier place.
5) How is mise-en-scene used?
The music video is set within old english grounds at a large mansion. This presents the video with a grand feel which supported by the use of maids and butlers throughout the video. This shows Paloma living with wealth and conventional money which juxtaposes to her life which shows her as miserable and sad which shows that money does not lead to happiness.
In terms of the micro element of hair, make-up and costume Paloma chooses to adopt a natural yet classical 60's looks within the music video which is shown through her statement winged eyeliner and pin curls. As well as this Paloma looks through the video shows her too be well presented and polished which abides to the idea she is wealthy and of power. However this contrasts to the narrative of the video and the relationship Paloma portrays which seems to be deteriorating and shows a messy break-up.
6) What common camera shots does the music video use?
One of the main uses of cinematography within the music video is an establishing shot. This is as the setting is used in order show off the wealth and heightened importance of Palomas character which contrasts to her unhappiness. The vast landscape and addition of the staff may too be used to show how alone Paloma is as within this large place their is no one around her showing how alone and abandoned she is.
1) What are your interests towards your chosen music artist?
Paloma has a unique, retro and eccentric style stereotypical of the soul genre which makes her song and image easy to recreate and understand.
2) What inspired you to create a music video with this artist in mind?
My group and I had a strong desire to use the soul genre as our chosen music genre to work within and Paloma embodies this with her videos and sound which connects and relates to people emotionally yet still uses video to emphasis this rather than relying on the lyrics.
Artist profile
1) Include a brief biography of your artist and include the most significance events.
Paloma faith was born in 1981 and is best known for her work as a singer-songwriter and actress.
Her ultimate success within the music industry has seen Paloma received three BRIT Award nominations, including British Female Solo Artist and Best British Album. However Paloma has also had a brief career as an actress making a feature film appearance in the 2007 popular school girl film 'St Trinians'. Her acting career also extended to Faith securing roles in both 'The Imaginarium' of Doctor Parnassus' and 'Dread'.
2) What record label your artist is signed to?
Paloma faith is signed to the record labels Epic and RCA. Both are well established and respected within the music industry signing some of the biggest names within the charts. For instance Epic records is based in New York and is distributed by Sony Music Entertainment and signs various artists such as Nicole Scherzinger, Fifth Harmony and the late Michael Jackson. On the other hand RCA is too based in New York and is distributed by Sony Music Entertainment in the US and RCA Label Group outside the US. RCA, apart from Paloma herself signs leading artists in the industry such as Beyonce, Brittany Spears, Usher, Justin Timberlake and Miley Cyrus.
3) Include information on the number of sales the artist has, with singles, albums.
She first appeared on the music scene in 2009 releasing her debut album 'Do you Want the Truth or Something Beautiful?' which reached number 9 on the UK charts featuring the popular singles 'Stone Cold Sober' and 'New York' both reaching top 20 in the charts. The album was later certified as double-platinum as was her second studio album, 'Fall to Grace'. The album produced her first top 10 single 'Picking Up the Pieces' and reached number 2 in the UK album charts. Faiths third and most successful album to date 'A Perfect Contradiction' was released early 2014 and included the top 10 singles 'Can't rely on you' and my groups chosen Paloma single 'Only Love Can Hurt Like This'. Overall Paloma has produced 3 Albums, 13 Singles and 1 EP.
Artist music video analysis
Can't Rely On You
1) How is Dyer’s star theory used?
Paloma can be seen as a product as she has chosen to perform and narrate the video herself using her popularity and image to link and identify the video increasing the videos like ability and views from her target audience.
Paloma is represented as both ordinary and extraordinary within the music video as she is shown to have relationship and trust issues relatable to the everyday person which would be comforting to her fans who can see that despite her star power she too goes through similar issues making her more relate able to the audience. However the use of clothing and the scenarios she places herself within show her to be extraordinary as they are unfamiliar scenarios to the audience making her life seem heightened and more intense.
The video too places fans for hegemony as the stars influential power has been used to show women how they do not need a man or relationship to be happy and successful. This is as it is socially thought of that a person will find a partner in life and get married and 'start' life but by showing that relationships don't work out she promotes an independent view that women should have the courage to determine their own lives as opposed to relying on others.
2) How is Goodwin’s theory used?
Godwin also states that in order to be successful there needs to be a relationship between lyrics and visuals within the music video.The line 'can't rely on you' is constantly repeated throughout whilst Paloma is shown to be badly treated by different men within different scenes. This suggests the idea that bad relationships are a reoccurring theme and she is constantly betrayed with love however it could show how to empower women who feel reliant upon the male figure showing that you don't need a man as all they do is hurt you and leave. This is shown as each man leaves the setting showing Paloma alone however the final clip is of her exiting through door alone suggesting she has now gained independence and courage.
A fifth element of Godwin's theory tells that there is often particularly voyeuristic treatment of the females body. This is present within the music video as Paloma is shown both just in her under ware and topless. This shows off her body appealing to the male genre and also helps connote the relationship shown of screen as intimate and serious.
Finally Godwin states that a video needs to be performance based narrative based or concept based. The video for 'Can't rely on you' would be identified as following a narrative base as Paloma chooses to portray the lyrics to the audience. She chooses to do this as opposed to just performing the lyrics as the soul genre is based upon emotions and the message through the lyrics needs support from a visual as it plays on emotions. However their is also an underlying moral concept as Paloma seems to be empowering women through the message at the beginning and end showing everyone is cheated by love before finishing with 'This is just the beginning' to leave people with an optimistic feel.
3) How is the artist represented?
As an artist Paloma is represented as emotionally needy and mistrusting. This is as as the video progresses and each of the men featured within the music video leave Paloma's character her emotional turmoil increases showing that she doesn't necessarily cope well with rejection. To be more specific, when left in the car which is rolling down a heel Paloma is shown to remain stationary with a looking of fear whilst searching out of the windows for someone to help her instead of taking the initiative to help and save herself suggesting a lack of independence.
4) Who is the target audience?
The target audience for this song is scorned lovers typical fans of the soul genre. As a result of this the video therefore relates to both genders appealing to a potential mass fan base however the musical style and narrative would mainly appeal to that of women as Paloma acts out a scenario from a woman's point of view.
5) How is mise-en-scene used?
In terms of setting and iconography the music video setting links to the song as Paloma is shown in a bedroom sharing the bed with her partner which
To add to this the music videos use of facial expressions and body language throughout the video is heightened to show her deep emotional trauma and to demonstrate her upset and hurt.
6) What common camera shots does the music video use?
There are a lot of mid and establishing shots used within the music video as the videos narrative follows different story lines as Paloma portrays multiple characters so could be suggesting as a technique for the audience to differentiate with and gain a better understanding of the concept within each scenario. However as the song is about not being able to rely on a partner as Paloma is shown through these shots alone it could be a technique to exaggerate and highlight her being alone without anyone around to help her or for her 'to rely on'.
Another common shot used throughout the music video is close ups. This is as Paloma's fan base and viewers would desire these shots so they can identify with the artist so there would be added influence from the record label to include these shots. This is particularly important within the music video as Paloma is show to be embodying different ulta egos and characters so the close ups of her face are needed to link each shot together and highlight her transformation. Through being able to properly see her face Paloma's target audience are then able to build a relationship with the artist as they have a stronger understanding of her appearance and can therefore identify her easier and relate her to themselves. This use of cinematography also shows the artist as a regular person showing them as ordinary and relate able.
Picking Up The Pieces
1) How is Dyer’s star theory used?
Paloma can be seen as a product as she has chosen to perform and narrate the video herself using her popularity and image to link and identify the video increasing the videos like ability and views from her target audience.
Paloma is represented as both ordinary and extraordinary within the music video as she is shown to have relationship issues relatable to the everyday person which would be comforting to her fans who can see that despite her star power she too goes through similar issues making her more relatable to the audience. However the use of clothing and the scenarios she places herself within show her to be extraordinary as they are unfamiliar scenarios to the audience making her life seem heightened and more intense.
2) How is Goodwin’s theory used?
Godwin also states that in order to be successful there needs to be a relationship between lyrics and visuals within the music video. This is evident within the video for Picking Up The Pieces as Paloma's male lead is shown to destructive and reckless causing a scene as he smashes glasses and plates so Paloma is left to remain calm and collected and to almost keep up appearances in order to counteract the males behaviour. This is shown within the lyrics "Now she's gone And I'm picking up the pieces I watch you cry But you don't see that I'm the one by your side". Showing how she's in charge trying her best but has had no recognition.
3) How is the artist represented?
The video for 'Picking Up The Pieces' shows Paloma as cold and emotionless. She is shown to uphold appearances to present herself in a certain way suggesting that the opinions others have of her is more important than her own issues and life troubles as she chooses to conceal her hurt instead turning emotionless to not allow herself to cause trouble. She is also portrayed as alone and cold as she is shown on a bench and throughout the house alone and even when with some else she seems disconnected suggesting she can't let others in. Her inability to perform the narrative as dramatic and hurt could be portrayed as cold as despite appearing facial expressions suggesting ideas of hurt she remains emotionally melancholy.
4) Who is the target audience?
The target audience for this music video is a majority women. This is as Paloma portrays the role of a woman behind a powerful man who does not feel able to express her emotions. As Paloma has a more mature target audience this would relate to them as women may be going through a similar situation within their own relationships where they may be unhappy but choose to continue within the relationship as may look at their downfall as a brief blip and pursue forward in hope of returning to a happier place.
5) How is mise-en-scene used?
The music video is set within old english grounds at a large mansion. This presents the video with a grand feel which supported by the use of maids and butlers throughout the video. This shows Paloma living with wealth and conventional money which juxtaposes to her life which shows her as miserable and sad which shows that money does not lead to happiness.
In terms of the micro element of hair, make-up and costume Paloma chooses to adopt a natural yet classical 60's looks within the music video which is shown through her statement winged eyeliner and pin curls. As well as this Paloma looks through the video shows her too be well presented and polished which abides to the idea she is wealthy and of power. However this contrasts to the narrative of the video and the relationship Paloma portrays which seems to be deteriorating and shows a messy break-up.
6) What common camera shots does the music video use?
One of the main uses of cinematography within the music video is an establishing shot. This is as the setting is used in order show off the wealth and heightened importance of Palomas character which contrasts to her unhappiness. The vast landscape and addition of the staff may too be used to show how alone Paloma is as within this large place their is no one around her showing how alone and abandoned she is.
This post demonstrates a proficient understanding of your chosen music artist. You have made a start in identifying some of the micro elements, but further analysis of the mise-en-scene is needed, as the points that you have included are too vague. Also aim to define the target audience. When writing your analysis you need to focus more on the codes and conventions of soul and refer to these points throughout.
ReplyDeleteAim to include a summary to explain how your research will assist you with planning and creating your own music video. Finally aim to include images to support the points that you have made.