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IB L&L2 - Lyrics and Music Videos: Research

Research

Research - Databases and Websites

The databases and websites below serve as a jumping off point for your research; you are not limited to these sources. As you read and take notes, please remember to keep track of your sources and cite them properly. Feel free to use the citations, automatically generated by our databases, or NoodleTools to save time. 

 

Notetaking Doc: As you take notes, feel free to use this Google Doc to keep track of your thoughts and sources. 

Biographical Research: Look at variety of sources (the Biography database, fan blog, artist’s own website, critical reviews, publications such as Rolling Stone or Billboard) and be sure to include the following in your slide:

  • What was this artist’s childhood like? 
  • What is/was this artist’s family situation like?
  • What kind of musical experiences has this artist had to get to this point?
  • What major events (local, national, world) were taking place during the artist’s life?
  • Based on your research, what inferences can you make about the events, social and political issues, etc.

Social and Political Context of the Moment: Review a variety of reputable and opposing viewpoints; focus your research on the time period when the musician created the music:  

  • What important social events happened during this time period? 
  • What important political movements or issues created controversy that might be important to this artist?
  • What important political or historical events took place? 
  • How would you describe the culture?

Resources for Research

Google Advanced Search 

Music Publications

  • Billboard 
  • Rolling Stone
  • Search for "Online Music Magazines" or "Music Publications" to find additional lists and links

 

Biography Database

Use the database linked below to access biographical information about your artist.  

News

Use the database linked below to access news articles (especially if you reach a reading limit in a specific publication). 

Major Events

Use the databases linked below to investigate major events, people, etc. in history. You may want to use the filters to help narrow the resources to match your interests.  

Important People: Biography

Use the databases linked below to access information about specific people. In some cases you will need to apply filters and select the best resources.

Culture, Religion, and the Arts