Beasted put out this “Emo Is Dead” tee back in January, but I came across it again recently, and it got me thinking about a couple things. True, Heartbreak and 808s was not an epic album in my opinion, but it was definitely a new take on hip-hop and some would argue, emo – A whiny release of self pity and emotional devastation spread out over 12 tracks. What I did like about the album was its introspective element and thorough story line. Something I admire about Kanye is his approach to his work as an art. He paints a clear picture for the listener. To me, that is what makes a good album – If an artist is able to communicate a specific message to his listeners, and have them relate to it and feel what he feels. So I think Heartbreak and 808s was successful in this respect. Kanye took a lot of heat for this album. I will admit, it did get old fairly quick, but as far as emo being dead?? I would have to strongly disagree.

The term “Emo” in relation to music is an ironic one, because to me, music is all about emotions. Before I continue, get the image of skinny jeans, studded belts, favorite band tees, and black square rimmed glasses  out of your head. Saying that emo is all about suicidal 17 year old girls who don’t smile, is like saying that rap is all about rubberband banks and grills. Ok….. there might be some truth to these statements, but there is a lot more to a genre of music than what lies on the surface. Unfortunately, it’s not as easily accepted for guys to express their emotions as it is for girls to do so, unless were talking R&B. According to Wikipedia, emo is defined by “expressive, often confessional lyrics.” The term, which is short for “emotional hardcore” originated during the mid-1980s hardcore punk movement of D.C. As the style was echoed by contemporary American punk bands, its sound and meaning shifted and changed, blending with pop music and indie rock. When I say emo, think Jimmy Eat World, Dashboard Confessional, Something Corporate, Death Cab for Cutie.

I like to look at albums as diaries (which is usually only possible if the artist writes his own songs). While many songs labeled “emo” admit sadness and tend to revel in it, they also supply a powerful release of emotions. Music serves so many different purposes, from entertaining to therapeutic. If you ask me, sometimes we just need a break from “Partying in the USA,” and “Seeking Amy.” Maybe this just makes me emo for writing this post… hmm. I guess I’m ok with that.

P.S. If you like the tee pictured above, it also comes in red and black. Get it at Karmaloop here, retailing for $24. I don’t think I would rock it, but I love the Kanye graphic, down to the plaid jacket. The original portrait below…

Strange is a favorite song of mine by The Feeling. I came across this video for it, and I can only describe it in one word… strange. Download The Feeling – Strange.

Check out some of their other songs….

Download The Feeling – Rose

Download The Feeling – Without You