Let’s dive into some notable examples, shall we? In a little bit of everything, West’s obsession with cinema comes into play, and it’s part of the identity he crafts and reinvents every era. He tries to get everything going with each release: the music and lyrics (obviously), album artwork, promotional materials, and even how he presents himself are all attached to a specific feel, aesthetic, and intention. When it comes to his artistic side, this gets reflected in his music often each album feels like it is of a different universe, with the palette of whatever comes in this particular territory this time around. One thing is for sure: West certainly will try anything, and his career has proven it for better or for worse. As an art student at heart (he attended the American Academy of Art College, as well as studying English in Chicago State University), I’m able to acknowledge some of the justifications for what he does (but not all certainly not all), since provocation is something he has down to a fine formula or two. Kanye West has been a producer, rapper-singer, designer, businessman and more in his twenty-or-so years of fame. Not only the meaning, but the incorporation of the throwback hip-hop feel with a modern twist are likewise factors that make Kanye’s Flashing Lights truly epic and memorable.Today is the birthday of one of hip hop’s most iconic - yet polarizing - figures. The song is powerful and universal many can relate to Kanye West’s lyrics and struggles which is why the song is said to be the best on his album Graduate. The structure is unique and allows us to enjoy and understand the artist and what he wants us to take away from his song. While he is telling this story, as listeners we still focus on the repetition of “flashing lights” which is the underlying reason that this relationship ended. Then, it transgresses into the second verse which describes how these issues resulted in the couple eventually ending. Secondly, the song is clever regarding the narrative aspect the first verse highlights the problems that subside within their relationship. The words are extremely clever Firstly, he uses comparisons particularly similes such as “Feeling like Katrina with no fema” “Like a flight with no visa” which are elements that emphasise his feelings of loss and regret. Therefore, in the second verse we as listeners are now understanding he cares and feels incomplete without the girl he is describing. For instance West states, “Like Martin with no Gina” which is a reference to a 90’s show that is based of an iconic relationship. The first verse he addresses these problems of underappreciation but then progresses to express how he is struggling to be without her. West raps “She don’t believe in shootin’ stars, But she believe in shoes and cars” which portrays that he believes she is taking advantage of him and perhaps using him for his fame and wealth. He is supposedly hearing loud alarm bells the repetition of “Flashing Lights” emphasises that he is worried and fearful that his relationship is heading in the wrong direction. Within Flashing Lights, West addresses the hardships and concerns he is encountering in relation with his partner. For instance, you could imagine this song would be used in a scene where a celebrity is walking down a red carpet and having the camera flashes blinding them from every angle.Įven though there is a lot going on surrounding the musical composition, we still can tune into Kanye’s lyrics and clearly understand the message he wants to convey. The slow tempo, the eerie computer elements and the symphonic voice of Dwele are factors that emphasise this glitzy and glamorous feel which relates to the idea of lights flashing. The beat is stripped down and repetitive which gives the song the opportunity to explore creatively in regard to the electronic and string components. The tune is complex, incorporating Kanye’s strong and powerful rap with Dwele’s smooth and rhythmic take on the chorus. Flashing lights embodies this old school, hip-hop vibe while incorporating electronic elements which creates this modern twist of timelessness. Kanye West’s Flashing Lights immediately hooks the listeners by opening with harmonic strings that then progress into a bold, repetitive and steady beat.
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