Imagine what it’d be like to live in present times, but have the voice of classic, early American stars such as James Dean or Dick Clark. You’d be praised for your cool demeanor and assumed wisdom that is brought on not by being book smart, but by the way you enunciate every vowel from every consonant that spews from your mouth. Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams are doing just that. Americans of varied ages and tastes are rushing the stage to hear their latest collaboration, “Blurred Lines” which introduces funk music to 2013.
Urging us all to dance has proven an easy task for this funk duo with an easy tempo and complex lyrics. Upon first hearing Robin Thicke’s initial “hey, hey, hey”, you, too, will become a follower of funk and begin to dance along with far too much shoulder movement—tapping your foot surely will not suffice.
“Blurred Lines” delivers a dynamic sound complete with an up-beat rhythm and prolonged note holding. Without much help from the finger snappin’ background instrumentals, Robin Thicke and Pharrell are shaking music patrons awake from a 21st century, auto-tune slumber. This refreshing single, while it is fit for your summer soirée or a rebellious rant around in the nightlife, should not be listened to in your search for relaxation. Quicker than a round of espresso shots, you’ll be back on your feet wide-eyed and willing to take on the defiant hobbies of your youth.
The accompanying music video (see above) can attest to the theme of rebellion. Certainly reminiscent of their own bachelor parties, Robin Thicke and Pharrell twist and turn with a trio of models for the better half of the video. With props limited to high-waisted shorts and ponytails, the men all return to married life after four minutes and some odd, fleshy seconds.
For the last 11 weeks, “Blurred Lines’ has been shuffling its way to the top of Billboard’s Hot 100. Finally at number one, the song rivals another popular track, “Get Lucky” which also features Pharrell. Both songs pay homage to the catchy songs of 8-tracks past. Surpassing his number 14 hit of 2007, “Lost Without U”, Robin Thicke still sings to us in a crisp suit, but he’s loosened his tie just enough.
Now, usually when your mother recommends that you look into an article of popular culture, you find yourself enveloped in a collection of YouTube videos centered on Earth, Wind, and Fire or Diana Ross and The Supremes. And this time around—trust me—you are willing to go there if it means being in the company of these funk forerunners.
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