Tupelo Honey

Question 0

What genres influenced this piece?

Answer 0

Pop, folk (specifically celtic influences), Jazz (use of pentatonic scales) and soul (rhythmic freedom)

Question 1

Describe the instrumentation used in the piece

Answer 1

Lead vocal, using the Bb major pentatonic scale, backing vocals, Flute/Saxophone, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, piano, bass guitar and drum kit, all of which play in Bb major

Question 2

Why is there little improvisation?

Answer 2

Because of the thick texture of the instruments

Question 3

How is the electric guitar used in the piece?

Answer 3

As a second melody instrument in conversation with the flute and providing fills

Question 4

How is the acoustic guitar used in the piece?

Answer 4

Provides some fills but mostly plays chords until the instrumental solo, where it plys in counterpoint with the sax and electric guitar

Question 5

What is the repeated chord pattern used in the piece?

Answer 5

Bb Dm/A Eb Bb, or I iiic IV I, which is diatonic and gives the piece a hypnotic feel

Question 6

How are the bass and drums used?

Answer 6

The bass plays a riff based on the roots of the chords, the drums provides a steady rhythm and gentle fills

Question 7

Describe the structure of the piece

Answer 7

Intro, verse 1, chorus, verse 2, chorus, instrumental solo, verse 3, chorus, middle 8, verse 4, chorus, chorus with variation, coda

Question 8

What changes in the lead vocal during the middle 8?

Answer 8

The range becomes higher and extremely embellished