Introduction

The class is going to investigate popular music in Spain. The Spanish music scene includes several different styles. While you work, think about these questions: does this music sound like that of the US? How is Spanish popular music different? Why is this so?

Task

Wea are going to create a database of artists people listen to on Spanish radio. It will include photos, clips of songs, and written summaries. You are going to present briefly in class and everyone will vote for the artists they like. After finishing the project, we hope you will recognize several names associated with the Spanish popular musical scene and be able to describe a musical style that is uniquely Spanish.

Process

1. The class will be divided into groups of two
2. Each group will receive the name an artist to investigate
3. Fill out a form for each name with the following data:

• Description - masculine or feminine / individual group / origin
• Styles - pop, rock, techno, flamenco, Celtic, or regional
• Trajectory - date of the first recording, number of recordings, connections with other groups
• Hits - awards / well-known songs / platinum albums
• Web - URL of the official site
• Visual - one or two photos
• Audio - URL for a sound or two
• Commentary - a few optional phrases

4. Present in class - five minutes
5. Vote for your favorite groups
6. Present the results

Resources

• http://www.allmusic.com/
• http://www.los40.com/actualidad/listas/lista40.html
• http://www.academiadelamusica.com/
• http://grammy.aol.com/awards/latin_grammy/
• http://www.fnac.es/
• http://www.cdnow.com/

Evaluation - 10 points

1. Amount and accuracy of data - 6
2. Presentation in class - 2
3. Written evaluation - a simple quiz - 2

Conclusion

When you finish, you will have listened to examples of popular Spanish music and learned a little about the favorite styles. You should have also considered the initial questions. Does the music of others countries have a normal amount of influence in Spain or is this an example of cultural imperialism?