Student Projects


1			Listen to Jimi Hendrix' version of the "Star-Spangled Banner," recorded at Woodstock in 1969. Write a short essay that explores the reasons why Hendrix might have chosen to play the piece this way. Are there any social or political factors that may have been involved?




2			Compare several Elvis Presley cover versions of songs with the original versions (such Bill Monroe's "Blue Moon of Kentucky," or Big Mama Thornton's "Hound Dog."). What musical elements has Elvis changed? What sort of an audience might Elvis' recordings appeal to?




3			Bob Dylan's songs have provided material for a wide range of artists throughout pop music history. Trace a few Dylan songs through several different versions by wide-ranging artists (The Byrds, Jimi Hendrix, The Band, The Ramones). What elements can you find that might explain the popularity of Dylan's music among other musicians?