Comparative analysis of original by Elvis Presley and cover versions by UB40 and A-Teens

Essay from the year 2017 in the subject Musicology - Miscellaneous, grade: High Distinction, Griffith University (Queensland Conservatorium of Music), course: Bachelor of Music, language: English, abstract: The popular music genre is extremely diverse and has roots in the late 1890s but it was not until the 1920s until the term had gained currency. It is not simply a genre but is an important means of documenting the evolution of society through the decades and is at the mercy of its audience. Therefore, when analysing popular music, it is essential to study it from a broad perspective and take into consideration the environment in which it was written. Shruker elaborates on this by stating, 'The study of popular music embraces aesthetics and musicology, economics and sociology, and social psychology'. These factors are explored in this essay to trace the changing socio-cultural trends across the decades and their effects on musical style. The example of 'Can't Help Falling in Love' by Elvis Presley is employed to achieve this objective, as well as two cover versions by English Reggae and pop band UB40 and Swedish pop group A-Teens. A detailed musical deconstruction of each song will be provided with an overview of the structure, lyrics, instruments and stylistic indictors, which place the song in its era. Furthermore, an in-depth exploration of the relevant era in which the song was written and recorded will be provided, including a brief background of the performer with regards to his appearance, presentation and promotional material. Ultimately, this essay will prove popular music to be a product of its socio-cultural environment.

Platinum Griffith Graduate of Influence Award recipient Kassidy-Rose McMahon (B.Mus.) is a Brisbane-based music teacher with an inextinguishable passion for education.