Music Snobs #3: Back Off!

Music snobs for a long time have hunted down and tried to eradicate the two note chord. Formally known as the power chord this tonic and dominant combination has become the outcast of music snobs and haters throughout the centuries. The emotional context and lack of complication has made this chord a pest in the eyes of the "mature musician". In reality, the power chord is just completely misunderstood. It never intended to be colorful or complex. It never promised harmonic diversity, but it does provide the back bone of almost all modern music. Parallel fifths are a joy to the dramatic angst filled teenager as he plucks out a simple melody to chronicle the sorrows of the world.

The power chord is raw and immature. It carries with it the power to sway the masses and bring cultural revolution. Although it may be harmonically boring the power chord has the ability to contain as much emotional content as the performer can muster. The power chord can be played by even the most minimally proficient guitarist. This opens the opportunity for anyone that ever wanted to express themselves musically a convenient outlet.

The bottom line is that music is just a collection of frequencies and rhythms that are played together in order to evoke an emotional response. With this in mind, music can be simple and still be highly effective. So go ahead and be freed from the criticism of the music snobs. Write a song, brighten someones day, or chronicle the depressing state of your pathetic love life. It's your thing... do what you want to do.