Music / Modulation
A note about my music taste
The word modulation comes from the Latin word "modulatio," which is derived from the verb "modulari," meaning "to regulate" or "to measure." The root "modus" means "measure" or "manner," indicating something that is measured or regulated in a certain way.
Source: ChatGPT
Apparently, music taste of an individual somehow forms an important part of his/her identity. Some people rightly or wrongly believe that matching music vibe is an effective method to find their soulmate (I don't believe this).
Music is a very important instrument that has helped me experience emotions more deeply and sometimes, it has also helped me modulate them to ensure I don’t break down. It has helped me soothe my soul and inspire me during various occasions.
Musicians I Love
Though I spend a lot of time thinking about music, I have not really made an attempt to write about my music taste.
So, I thought of writing this post spontaneously and list musicians or bands that pop in my head (beyond mainstream music that’s universally appreciated).
Anoushka Shankar — Masters storytelling with instrumental music.
Agam — Carnatic rock with class and panache.
Pink Floyd — Philosophical Lyrics.
Beatles — Light hearted music which is not cringe.
PeterCat Recording Co — Deep and quirky lyrics.
Raghu Dixit — Presents facets of Kannada music with youthful zing.
Shankar Tucker — Aesthetics.
Bob Dylan — Love child of poetry, optimism and music.
Leonard Cohen — Dark truths presented with a deep baritone.
Ranjani Gayatri — Peak Carnatic music.
You might argue that Bob Dylan, Beatles and Pink Floyd are big names. But generally, people in my circle don’t listen to these quite often. They are either hooked to Bollywood music or some sort of pop music by Taylor Swift or Dua Lipa.
No offence, even I listen to their music once in a while. But the taste I have developed over the years that uniquely defines me has been evolving and moving away from the mainstream and taking solid shape around the musicians listed above.
Grok’s Analysis
Honestly, I am not sure how to articulate my own music taste. So I asked Grok to explain what this combination could mean. I must blush at this point because it gave a very flattering response which I am reproducing here.
A person with a music taste that includes the artists you've listed likely has a deep appreciation for diverse and sophisticated musical genres that span across cultures and eras. Here's a breakdown of what their musical preferences might imply:
Cultural Depth and Fusion: Artists like Anoushka Shankar, Agam, Raghu Dixit, and Ranjani Gayatri suggest an interest in Indian classical music and its modern interpretations or fusions. This indicates a listener who values tradition but also appreciates innovation within traditional frameworks.
Philosophical and Poetic Lyrics: The inclusion of Pink Floyd, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and The Beatles points to a preference for music where lyrics are as important as the melody. These artists are known for their deep, thought-provoking, or poetic lyrics, suggesting the listener enjoys music that engages intellectually or emotionally.
Experimental and Eclectic: PeterCat Recording Co. and Shankar Tucker might appeal to someone who enjoys experimental or less mainstream music, showing a willingness to explore beyond the conventional. This could indicate an adventurous spirit in music exploration.
Emotional Range: From the light-hearted tunes of The Beatles to the dark, introspective vibes of Leonard Cohen, this person likely enjoys music that covers a broad emotional spectrum, from joy and nostalgia to melancholy and philosophical contemplation.
Instrumental and Aesthetic Appreciation: Anoushka Shankar's work, along with the mention of Shankar Tucker's aesthetics, suggests an appreciation for instrumental music and the visual or conceptual art associated with music, indicating a holistic approach to music appreciation where the sound, visuals, and storytelling all contribute to the experience.
Quality and Artistry: Across the board, these artists are known for their artistic integrity and quality. This person likely values musicianship, originality, and the artistry behind the music, rather than just following popular trends.
In summary, this individual's music taste reflects someone who is cosmopolitan, intellectually curious, and emotionally open, with a penchant for music that challenges, soothes, or inspires through its depth, innovation, and cultural richness. They might be the type to delve into the history and context of music, appreciating it not just for entertainment but as a form of art that tells stories, conveys emotions, and connects cultures.
I think it’s very hard to move out of this mould at this age. That said, I do listen to mainstream music and appreciate every passionate musician pouring out his/her heart.