Michael Jackson's "Black Or White"

Whether that be on the walk to school or the car ride to work, music is so mainstream in our era. Being incorporated into the average Americans routine, messages that promote social change in America is heard on the daily. Jackson’s work invites us to consider the growth in positive impact artists can have here in America when they dare to blend art with advocacy, an influence that resonates as strongly now as it did in his era.

Fans and critics were divided; some applauded Jackson’s courage to take a stand on a controversial issue, while others questioned whether his message resonated or felt out of place in the pop landscape. Beyond the lyrics and the sound, the video alone sparked discussions, with some scenes seen as provocative or misunderstood in addition to the face-morphing sequence adding polarization to the song’s reception (Silberman 2007). More specific to the release date in 1991, “Black Or White” came at a time when racial tensions were especially high in the United States, with events like the Rodney King beating and ensuing discussions on race relations at the forefront of American society.

This groundbreaking visual effect for the time was especially innovative and perhaps jarring for some fans, adding to its memorability and underscoring Jackson’s call for racial barriers to be dissolved in the 90s.

The song’s lyrics spoke directly to issues of race, with lines like “[i]f you’re thinkin’ about my baby, it don’t matter if you’re black or white,” sending a clear message of acceptance and equality.

wasn’t

We’ll see how Jackson’s transformation from pop superstar to political voice has changed American pop culture and pushed the boundaries of what music could convey starting in the era of early 90s America.

one of pop music’s King.

in the era of early 90s America.

“I owned every second that this world could give.” Both tracks celebrate overcoming life’s high and low notes, with Jackson focusing on racial harmony and “I Lived” emphasizing resilience and perseverance.

Both songs crescendo as powerful reminders of how music can orchestrate societal change, urging us to focus on our shared identity of humanity.

'DNA'

'Black Or White.'

This track reflects the shared responsibility of humanity to lift one another, echoing the message of unity first heard in 'Black Or White.'

Playlist:

'Where Is the Love?'

Contents 1 2024-11-06T17:07:55-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 Timeline of MJ's Songs 7 plain 2024-11-07T07:40:22-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 1 2024-11-07T08:14:43-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 Rock Aspects 1 plain 2024-11-07T08:14:43-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 1 2024-11-07T08:14:49-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 Rap Aspects 1 plain 2024-11-07T08:14:50-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 1 2024-11-07T08:14:57-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 Pop Aspects 1 plain 2024-11-07T08:14:58-08:00 Kainoa Wagatsuma b5098b42ffcb1f2613cf8ce9b73705a9d95b32d0 Begin with “Timeline of MJ's Songs”

By presenting Jackson as a manipulator of the media, Silberman fails to account for external factors like the press, fans, and industry pressures, and does not explore alternative interpretations of Jackson’s actions or motivations.

Additionally, Silberman divides his article into two sections, first Jackson’s 1991 “Black Or White,” then contrasting this with the 2005 trial.

Moreover, the overemphasis of Jackson’s persona as a deliberate product of media manipulation may be taken through the wrong time lens; published more than fifteen years after the release of Jackson’s song, the cultural context may have been lost regarding a more grounded discussion around the artist’s motivatio

Seth Clark Silberman’s "Presenting Michael Jackson" provides an analysis of Jackson’s celebrity through poststructuralist theory and offers insights into Jackson’s manipulation of his image, yet extremity is still up for debate, and Silberman’s primary argument comes down to one major flaw– it is overly narrow in scope

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Silberman

The song and music video “Black Or White” by Michael Jackson explores themes of racial unity while using groundbreaking visual effects as aid.

Published in 2007, “Presenting Michael Jackson” by Seth Clark Silberman examines Michael Jackson as a celebrity and cultural icon.

Thus, setting a precedent for future artists to follow in his footsteps, such as Beyonce and Kendrick Lamar, who similarly use their platforms to politicize music, share their story, and promote social causes.

Jackson’s “Black Or White” is a significant mark on music as a platform for beneficially social and progressive messages because it was more than a song; it was a political and cultural intervention at a time when race relations, specifically in America, were at the forefront of social issues.

In a broader societal lens,

Jackson thus politicizes his work by embedding social critiques in his mainstream pop song, and, beyond just a message, he also extends his appeal to those that can attest to the issues he sheds light on through lyrical style.

By incorporating multiple genres, particularly with a rap and hip-hop segment in the middle of the song with comments on systemic racism in America, Jackson suggests that music could, much like race, can and will transcend boundaries.

The song’s sonic characteristics, such as its fusion of sounds common in pop, rock, and hip-hop genres, reflect the theme of racial unity.

The sound, lyrics, as well as the context and timing of the song’s release reflect Jackson’s primary theme of racial harmony, embedding itself as not just a pop anthem but as a social statement.

"Black Or White"

But in this project, I will take a more focused analytical approach while preserving the grassroots style in which audiences traditionally shared and interpreted his messages

The societal reaction to "Black Or White" was mixed.

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Moreover, from the music review, "Black Or White" was groundbreaking in how it fused different genres, blending rock’s aggressive guitar riffs with upbeat pop melodies and even incorporating a hip-hop segment (Hopper 2023).

Furthermore, this project outlines how he used his newfound politicized platform to great effectiveness domestically, here in America.

Furthermore, Jackson’s deliberate decision to politicize his music and image with "Black Or White" was a significant shift that would influence generations of artists who followed in his footsteps

For instance, the song made a resurgence on social media during the  Black Lives Matter movement, where fans highlighted Jackson’s early advocacy for racial unity in American pop culture.

Michael Jackson's "Black Or White," one of the most popular songs of the 90s, represents a critical turning point in his career, marking his transition from the King of Pop to a socially conscious pop artist. Released in 1991 as the lead single from his Dangerous album, "Black Or White" tackled the question of racial identity, blending multiple musical genres such as pop, rock, and hip-hop to craft a message of racial harmony.

Investigating "Love Wins All"by Hawon Park

The video’s color palettes and lighting choices serve as a powerful tool to reinforce the message of the power of love. Throughout the music video, the scenes with IU and V are often split into cool and warm tones.

She makes her audience shift in perspective to see love as a powerful force that wins against adversities. This shift in perspective, then makes “Love Wins All” more than a song. It becomes an encouragement, telling the audience to show and share love as a way to fight hate.

The theme of healing, for example, is included in scenes where IU and V’s scars and disabilities disappear when they are immersed in each other’s presence (IU “Love Wins All” MV 0:38-2:40)

IU’s choice to portray hate as this ominous, almost mechanical being, contrasts with the warm human connection between the main characters and reinforces the belief that love is genuine, personal, and human, while hate is cold, alone, and impersonal. By showing love as the opposite of hate, IU encourages her audience to reject hate and choose love as the stronger, more meaningful force in their lives.

As the first way of contact, every part of the music video has a significant impact on the audience and one particular part is the symbolism. The use of symbolism is central to the impact of the music video because it allows viewers to emotionally connect with love as a constant and powerful force.

As a result, IU leaves a lasting impact through the symbols in the music video of “Love Wins All”, which is only expanded upon by the hidden themes.Hidden themes of healing and empathy further enhance the impact of the music video, which is significant because it is the audience’s initial encounter with the song.

On January 24, 2024, IU released a music video to her newest comeback song, “Love Wins All”. The song was more than just a song, but rather a film that portrayed the love of two characters in a dystopian world. Directed by Uhm Tae Hwa, the music video follows IU and V, running away from a mysterious cube and taking refuge in an abandoned mall. As the primary form through which most of IU’s audience first encountered the song, the music video is significant. Through the symbolism, hidden themes, and visual elements in the music video, IU creates a theme that love is a transforming force capable of winning against the harshest adversities. This perspective shift invites viewers not only to believe in the power of love but also to share and embody it in their lives.

In conclusion

As IU approached the climax of “Love Wins All” the crowd grew wild, and the song reached its peak. Closing her eyes, IU confidently sang the last verse, “Love, Love, Love, Love”. As the stage lights dimmed, IU opened her eyes. Overwhelming the hate that IU had seen and received over the years, the crowd erupted in adoration and love for IU. In that moment, I could see the power of love.

the singers are hoping that their love will help that person overcome their life’s adversities.

The soft emotional vocals are very similar to that of the introductory vocals in “Love Wins All”. These emotional vocals connect the two songs because they connect with my, the listener’s, emotions, allowing me to wonder if love can truly win.

Through this playlist, IU argues that love will always win no matter the strength that hatred seems to have. It is important to follow and believe in this power of love especially in the current world full of adversity and hatred.

In this song, listen to the powerful vocal range of LeeHi, especially when she reaches the climax of the song. This parallels IU's strong vocals in “Love Wins All”. Strong vocals in “Breathe” and “Love Wins All” enhance the emotional impact of the lyrics, illustrating the power of love. Therefore, focus on LeeHi’s strong voice in the climax of “Breathe”.

The song can be seen as the words that IU wished she could have said to Sulli. Sulli’s death was a major adversity for IU, especially because hate from K-netizens contributed to Sulli’s death. During this time of grief, IU still chose to believe in the power of love because of the people who stayed with her and loved her through these difficult times. With “Love Poem” connecting to “Love Wins All” by serving as context, “Love Poem” was specifically placed as the first song on this list. “Love Poem” also connects to “Love Wins All” because the power of love is relevant in “Love Poem”. Throughout the song, IU says that someone is praying for another person. In doing so, she creates hope that there may be someone out there praying for each of us. This hope is what she hoped could have reached Sulli. So, for whoever else has dark thoughts, she presents a song that sends hope and love.

The first three songs show the need for love and the power it can have. The context of these songs deals with death, depression, and suicide, highlighting the power love can bring in these moments. Continuing this theme, “Run With Me” and “Pray” provide comfort and strength through love.

As the lights dimmed and the stage went dark, a sea of green lightsticks waved across the cheering crowd. A hush fell over the crowd as the soft melody of the piano filled the air, developing into a crescendo. Then, a spotlight shined on IU as her voice silenced the audience. In the faintest whisper, IU sang the first verse of “Love Wins All”, “Dearest, darling, my universe”.

t the beginning of the lengthened recording from the music video, the music starts with what one critic describes as an “immaculate piano intro” (Tan). The use of the piano coupled with IU’s soft whispering voice helps to establish an intimate and reflective atmosphere. This draws listeners into an emotional space where love feels delicate yet profound. The start contrasts with the song as it progresses when the music builds in intensity, matching IU’s “powerful, chest-baring voice” (Tan). The crescendos in both the instrumentals and IU’s voice mirror love growing from a delicate emotion to a powerful force that overcomes adversity and hardships.

It can change people’s thinking to believe that love is truly powerful and that with love, life’s adversities can be overcome. As a result, the lyrics that IU writes further enhance the message and significance of the song, “Love Wins All”.

IU sings the following lyrics which have been translated to English, “will it be a bad ending for us two, gone astray?” and “Destroy me slowly…I want to get sad with you, My lover” (Love Wins All (English Translation) – IU | Genius Lyrics). These lines acknowledge the uncertainty and the potential pain in life's journey.

Through this lyric, IU evokes the idea that love is a fundamental and prevailing force.

In “Love Wins All”, IU masterfully intertwines her personal experiences, musical elements, and powerful lyrics to convey the enduring power of love. The cultural context of her experiences in the K-pop industry, marked by loss and adversity, serves as the foundation for her message of believing that love will win. In addition, the song’s musical journey, from soft vulnerability to powerful vocals demonstrates the emotional journey of love overcoming hardship. Finally, the lyrics offer a message of hope, urging its listeners to believe that love can triumph over life’s challenges. This message is significant because it challenges listeners to shift their perspective. In a world full of hate and adversity, “Love Wins All” encourages that with love, the difficulties in life can be overcome. Therefore, IU’s “Love Wins All” leaves behind the lasting belief, that no matter the adversities faced, love has the power to triumph, changing how people view the world.

love can win

While it may be difficult to attain a perfect understanding of this piece, its significance is unmistakable. Through its context, delicate yet bold musical elements, and lyrics, “Love Wins All” makes a simple, yet profound argument: love can overcome adversity. More than just a song, it encourages a shift in perspective, inviting listeners to see the world through the power of love.

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In this thesis, there are many positive aspects. One major benefit of this source is its use of strong examples to support the arguments.

K-Pop

Despite the benefits of this journal, there may be some limitations as well.

Connecting the thesis to “Love Wins All” by IU, the song’s underlying message highlights many hardships that IU experienced due to today's K-Pop culture. Thus, Kim’s thesis can be useful to deeply examine “Love Wins All”.

In the process of source analysis, some aspects include the author’s argument, structure, and relevance. Using this analytical approach, Jungwon Kim’s “K-Popping: Korean Women, K-Pop, and Fandom” can be examined to determine its credibility. In this thesis, Kim discusses the growth of K-pop into a musical genre gaining international recognition. Further, the author analyzes how K-Pop grew into what it is today and how this genre can be defined. As this peer-reviewed source is indirectly connected to “Love Wins All” by IU, it is crucial to analyze its strengths and limitations, determining its effectiveness as a source.

In conclusion, it is important to analyze the argument, strength, and limitation of “K- Popping: Korean Women, K-Pop, and Fandom” to determine its credibility as a source for analyzing “Love Wins All” by IU.

Critical Reading of Jungwon Kim's Thesis on The K-pop Genre and its Fandom

Continue to “The Sound of Love: a Musical Analysis of "Love Wins All"”

Therefore, the song’s story urges its listeners to embrace the power of love to endure and overcome, showing that it truly can win against adversity.

The broader significance of the song is also reflected in different pieces of music.

Through the layers of context, lyrics, and visual elements, the power of love emerges, creating a story that deeply resonates.

Furthermore, the impact of “Love Wins All” extends beyond the K-pop industry.

This theme of love’s enduring is especially powerful when viewed through the tragic story of Sulli, IU’s close friend who lost her life after enduring public scrutiny and hate.

dark figures surround the couple, symbolizing societal hate and criticism (IU “Love Wins All” MV).

(IU “Love Wins All” MV)

In a world filled with challenges and adversities, IU’s song “Love Wins All” sends a clear message that love overcomes hardship. Released on January 24, 2024, the song quickly gained popularity, racking up millions of views on YouTube. Its success can be attributed not only to IU’s captivating voice and musical elements but also to the powerful story that it shares: the story of love triumphing over adversity. More than a simple K-pop song, “Love Wins All” shows the story of love’s enduring strength, which matters because it reshapes people’s perspective on life’s difficulties.