The Rhythm Of “What’s Love Got To Do With It” (T. Turner 1984) Shows The Influence Of Reggae

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Introduction

Reggae music is a genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. Known for its laid-back rhythms, infectious melodies, and socially conscious lyrics, reggae has made a lasting impact on the music world. One of the defining characteristics of reggae is its distinctive rhythmic elements, which are deeply ingrained in the genre’s DNA.

In 1984, Tina Turner released the iconic song “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” which became a massive hit and solidified her status as a music legend. While “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is primarily classified as a pop-rock song, it also bears the influence of reggae, particularly in its rhythmic structure.

This article will delve into the musical style of “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” exploring the reggae influence and analyzing the rhythmic elements that make this song stand out. We will also examine Tina Turner’s interpretation of the reggae influence and how it contributed to the song’s success. So, let’s dive deep into this captivating musical journey and unravel the secrets behind the rhythm of “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”

The Musical Style of “What’s Love Got to Do With It”

“What’s Love Got to Do With It” is a song that defies easy categorization, blending elements from various musical genres. At its core, it is a pop-rock song with a catchy melody and a strong vocal performance by Tina Turner. However, upon closer examination, one can discern the subtle influence of reggae in its musical style.

The song opens with a simple guitar riff that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. This guitar riff is reminiscent of the rhythmic patterns commonly found in reggae music. It sets the tone for the rest of the song, creating a laid-back and groovy atmosphere.

In addition to the guitar, the bassline in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” also showcases reggae undertones. The bass follows a steady, pulsating rhythm that is characteristic of reggae music. It provides a solid foundation for the song and helps to drive the groove throughout.

Furthermore, the use of percussion in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” further reinforces the reggae influence. The song incorporates elements such as tambourines and hand drums, adding a rhythmic texture that is reminiscent of the percussion found in traditional reggae music.

While the overall feel of “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is undeniably pop-rock, these subtle reggae elements add depth and complexity to the song’s musical style. They infuse the track with a sense of rhythm and groove that sets it apart from other pop songs of its time.

Moreover, the incorporation of reggae elements in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” reflects Tina Turner’s musical versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres. It showcases her ability to seamlessly blend various influences and create a unique sound that resonates with a wide audience.

Overall, the musical style of “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is a captivating blend of pop-rock and reggae elements. It exemplifies the power of musical fusion and highlights the enduring influence of reggae on popular music.

The Influence of Reggae on “What’s Love Got to Do With It”

The influence of reggae on “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is undeniable. While the song is primarily rooted in the pop-rock genre, it incorporates key elements from reggae that elevate its musicality and appeal.

One of the main ways in which reggae influences “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is through its rhythmic structure. Reggae music is characterized by its distinctive off-beat accents and syncopated rhythms, which create a relaxed and infectious groove. These rhythmic intricacies are subtly integrated into the song, adding depth and complexity to the overall sound.

Furthermore, reggae is known for its emphasis on basslines, and this influence can be heard in “What’s Love Got to Do With It.” The bassline in the song follows a melodic pattern that is reminiscent of the melodic basslines often found in reggae tracks. It provides a strong foundation and contributes to the song’s infectious energy.

Additionally, reggae’s lyrical themes of love, social justice, and personal empowerment have also influenced “What’s Love Got to Do With It.” While the song’s lyrics primarily explore the complexities of love and relationships, there is an underlying message of self-empowerment and resilience that echoes the spirit of reggae music.

Tina Turner’s delivery and vocal style in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” further reflect the influence of reggae. She infuses the song with soulful and expressive vocals, channeling the passion and emotiveness often found in reggae performances. Her dynamic delivery captures the essence of reggae’s emotional depth.

It is worth noting that the reggae influence on “What’s Love Got to Do With It” might not be immediately apparent to casual listeners. However, upon closer inspection and with knowledge of the reggae genre, one can appreciate the subtle nuances and hints that pay homage to reggae in the song.

Overall, the influence of reggae on “What’s Love Got to Do With It” cannot be overlooked. From its rhythmic structure to its lyrical themes and vocal delivery, reggae adds a layer of richness and depth to the song, elevating it beyond the confines of a typical pop-rock track.

The Rhythmic Elements in “What’s Love Got to Do With It”

The rhythmic elements in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” play a crucial role in shaping the song’s unique sound and infectious groove. While the song is primarily categorized as pop-rock, it incorporates rhythmic elements from reggae that give it a distinct flavor.

One of the defining rhythmic features in the song is the use of syncopation. Syncopation refers to the deliberate placement of accents on weak beats, creating an off-beat feel. This rhythmic technique is synonymous with reggae music and helps to infuse “What’s Love Got to Do With It” with a laid-back and relaxed vibe.

The guitar riff that opens the song is a prime example of this syncopated rhythm. It accentuates the off-beat accents and sets the tone for the rest of the track. The rhythm created by the guitar riff is infectious and instantly gets listeners nodding their heads to the groove.

In addition to syncopation, the bassline in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is integral to its rhythmic structure. The bass follows a consistent and pulsating rhythm, providing a solid foundation for the song. This rhythmic foundation is reminiscent of the basslines commonly found in reggae music, adding depth and a driving energy to the track.

The percussion elements in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” further contribute to the rhythmic complexity of the song. Tambourines and hand drums are subtly integrated into the mix, adding subtle accents and textures that enhance the overall groove. These percussive elements reflect the rhythmic sensibilities of reggae and help to create a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

It is important to note that while the reggae influence in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is evident in the rhythmic elements, the song still maintains its pop-rock sensibilities. The incorporation of reggae-inspired rhythms adds depth and a unique flavor to the overall sound, but it is seamlessly blended with the song’s pop-rock foundation.

The combination of syncopation, pulsating basslines, and vibrant percussion in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” creates a rhythmic tapestry that is both infectious and captivating. These rhythmic elements, influenced by reggae, contribute to the enduring popularity and appeal of the song.

In essence, the rhythmic elements in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” showcase the influence of reggae on the song, infusing it with a distinct groove that sets it apart from other pop-rock tracks of its time.

Tina Turner’s Interpretation of the Reggae Influence

Tina Turner’s interpretation of the reggae influence in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” is a testament to her versatility as a singer and her ability to infuse different genres into her music. While the song is primarily categorized as pop-rock, Turner’s unique vocal style and delivery reflect the essence of reggae music.

Turner’s powerful and soulful voice lends itself well to the reggae-influenced elements in the song. She effortlessly navigates through the rhythmic complexities, infusing the track with her signature energy and passion. Her vocal performance channels the emotiveness and depth often associated with reggae music.

Through her interpretation, Turner adds an extra layer of intensity and authenticity to the reggae influence in “What’s Love Got to Do With It.” Her vocal nuances and phrasing capture the essence of the genre, evoking the spirit of reggae’s emotional depth.

Furthermore, Turner’s delivery in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” showcases her ability to effortlessly transition between different musical styles. She seamlessly moves from the rhythmic reggae-inspired sections to the catchy pop hooks, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

In addition to her vocal interpretation, Turner’s stage presence and performances of “What’s Love Got to Do With It” further reflect the reggae influence. She incorporates elements of reggae-inspired dance moves and grooves into her live performances, captivating audiences with her infectious energy and rhythm.

By embracing and interpreting the reggae influence in “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” Tina Turner not only showcases her musical range but also pays homage to the genre that has influenced countless artists worldwide. Her unique interpretation breathes new life into the song and solidifies it as a timeless classic.

Overall, Tina Turner’s interpretation of the reggae influence in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” demonstrates her mastery of blending different musical genres and her ability to infuse her own style into a song. Her soulful vocals and captivating stage presence add depth and excitement to the reggae-influenced elements, creating a truly memorable musical experience.

Conclusion

“What’s Love Got to Do With It” may be primarily classified as a pop-rock song, but its subtle reggae influence sets it apart and contributes to its enduring appeal. The incorporation of reggae elements, such as rhythmic complexities, syncopation, and soulful vocals, adds depth and enhances the overall musical experience.

Tina Turner’s interpretation of the reggae influence in the song showcases her versatility as an artist and her ability to seamlessly blend different musical genres. Her dynamic delivery and stage presence bring the reggae-inspired elements to life, captivating audiences and solidifying the song’s place in music history.

The rhythmic elements in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” are a testament to the enduring influence of reggae on popular music. The syncopated rhythms, pulsating basslines, and vibrant percussion create a distinctive sound that lingers in the ears of listeners long after the song has ended.

Moreover, the reggae influence in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” demonstrates the power of musical fusion and how different genres can come together to create something unique and captivating. It serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of music and the boundless possibilities that arise when artists draw inspiration from diverse sources.

In conclusion, “What’s Love Got to Do With It” stands as a testament to the enduring influence of reggae on popular music. Its rhythmic elements, infused with reggae’s signature style, set it apart and contribute to its timeless appeal. Tina Turner’s interpretation elevates the reggae influence, showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend genres and deliver a powerful performance. From the catchy guitar riff to the pulsating bassline and soulful vocals, the song captures the essence of reggae in a pop-rock package. “What’s Love Got to Do With It” exemplifies the beauty and magic that can emerge when musical boundaries are pushed and crossed, leaving a lasting impact on listeners and reminding us of the transcendent nature of music.