Nazia Pasha- Journal #10

     The Avett Brothers and Jimi Hendrix present many rhetorical similarities. The lyrics in all songs sung by both artist presents the audience with a specific message or main theme.  A very prominent theme in their songs describes the youth and the hardships they faced during that time, as well as them feeling rather misplaced in society.  The hardships could be described by the misdirection, the loss of loved ones, or the feeling of hopelessness and loneliness. A popular way of explaining these circumstances is by presenting a plot in their songs.

      These themes give off a rather sorrowful tone, and because of this, these lyrics can be seen as Blues lyrics. This aspect reveals how the Blues had impacted both artists. Another aspect of these songs that indicate an influence of the Blues is the fact that these songs are like narratives, and they have a storyline that explains a personal experience. Jimi Hendrix’s songs specifically sound more like stories in that he sings, but at the same time, will talk during his songs, just as many Blues music incorporates this talking. In class we listened to many samples that presented this aspect of the story-telling while at the same time, they sound like they are rather speaking to the audience than singing.
      Differences between Jimi Hendrix and the Avett Brothers could be seen in their use of their main instruments- the guitar and the banjo. Jimi Hendrix is known for his great talent in playing the guitar. Most of his songs dedicate a good portion to him solely playing the guitar, purposefully giving the guitar a prominent role. While the Avett Brother’s have more balanced components to their songs. The banjo, as well as other blue grass instruments, is used throughout, while they continue to sing and put the focus on the lyrics. The use of the electric guitar and the grungy/hardcore elements in the song is what distinguishes Jimi Hendrix’s songs as Rock N’ Roll rather than other genres; while the banjo, the fast passed rhythm, and the melody, is what distinguishes the Avett Brother’s music as blue grass genre.