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Social Commentary Through Music


Social Commentary Through Music

5/5/18



In this article, I will be talking about the song, "Mrs. Potatoe Head" by Melanie Martinez, an American singer, and songwriter. Within the respective video along with others display a childlike world coupled with mature themes and social commentary. Furthermore, throughout the song talks about one going through plastic surgery to live up to society's beauty expectations. For example, stating, "No one will love you if you're unattractive". As a result, pressuring the main character to alter her appearance, despite the consequences. However, the surgery distorted the main characters face and made her appear unattractive. With the main character's displeasing appearance, she ultimately regretted her decision when her suitor was disgusted by the result and left. 

Overall, the childish world Melanie Martinez portrays is juxtaposed with the lyrics. Furthermore, the song references the toy, Mr. Pototatoe Head(Mrs. Potatoe Head in the video); of which you can alter its appearance to your liking. Thus, showing that the Melanie Martinez is commenting on the effects of plastic surgery. By using the contrast between the video and the lyrics to express society's expectations and the negative effects of plastic surgery. In the end, this video also brought large controversy, but more importantly tackles one of society's issues. 

When I saw this video I was incredibly freaked out. As mentioned before, the video and lyrics are juxtaposed in a really effective way(too effective honestly). As a result, I realize such measures have to be taken, the video itself portrayed explicit scenes; of which could be something from a horror movie. Besides from my mere reaction, this video was really effective and I believe that social commentary through music is very important. Overall, through music, social commentary can affect/ be exposed to many people. Also, depending on the song's target audience, it can be really effective. In the end, Melanie Martinez's song comments on the negative effects of plastic surgery and is important to for future commentary.





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