The Music Vocabulary Quiz

The words of a song are referred to as lyrics. Lyrics are the written words that convey the message or story of a song. They are typically sung or spoken by the vocalist or performers of the song. The lyrics are an essential part of a song as they contribute to its meaning and emotional impact.

"In key" is a positive way to describe music that hits the right notes because it means that the music is harmonious and the notes are played in the correct pitch and tonality. This phrase suggests that the music is well-structured and pleasing to the ear, indicating that the musician has a good sense of melody and is able to create a cohesive and enjoyable musical composition.

The correct answer is "funky" because both hip hop and funk music are known for their upbeat and rhythmic qualities, often characterized by syncopated bass lines, catchy melodies, and strong emphasis on groove. The term "funky" is commonly used to describe music that has a strong sense of rhythm and a lively, energetic vibe, which accurately applies to both hip hop and funk genres.

Controversial lyrics are those that generate disagreement or are perceived as bad by some individuals. They often spark debates and differing opinions due to their sensitive or provocative nature. Such lyrics may touch upon controversial topics, challenge societal norms, or express viewpoints that some find offensive or objectionable. The term "controversial" accurately describes lyrics that elicit disagreement or negative reception from certain people.

A percussionist is the correct term for someone who plays the drums. While a DJ may also work with electronic drum machines, they are not necessarily skilled in playing traditional drums. A rhythm master could refer to someone who has a good sense of rhythm but does not specifically play the drums. Therefore, percussionist is the most accurate term for someone who plays the drums.

The correct answer is nasal. Nasal singing voice refers to a technique where the sound resonates too much in the nasal cavity, resulting in a nasal tone. This can happen when the singer is not properly using their vocal resonators and airflow, causing an excessive amount of sound to come through the nose. It is generally considered undesirable in singing as it can affect the overall quality and tone of the voice.

A melody that is "catchy" is easy to remember and hard to forget because it has a strong and memorable tune that sticks in your mind. It typically has a simple and repetitive structure that makes it easy for listeners to sing along or hum to. Catchy melodies often have a hook or a catchy phrase that grabs the listener's attention and stays with them long after they have heard the song. This makes catchy melodies popular and widely recognized.

The opposite of "indie" or alternative music is mainstream. Mainstream music refers to the popular and widely accepted music that is commercially successful and widely promoted by major record labels and media platforms. It is the music that is commonly heard on mainstream radio stations and is embraced by a larger audience. On the other hand, indie or alternative music is characterized by its independent production, non-conformity to mainstream trends, and a more niche following.

The main part of a song is the chorus. The chorus is a section of the song that is repeated several times throughout and typically contains the main theme or message of the song. It is usually the catchiest and most memorable part of the song, often featuring a catchy melody and lyrics that are easy to sing along to. The chorus helps to create a sense of familiarity and unity within the song, making it a crucial and essential component.

R&B, which stands for rhythm and blues, is a genre of music that is known for its soulful and mellow characteristics. R&B music often features smooth vocals and melodic instrumentals, creating a relaxed and soothing atmosphere. The genre is rooted in African-American culture and has its origins in blues and gospel music. R&B songs typically convey emotions and tell stories through heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies. Therefore, the words "soulful" and "mellow" accurately describe the essence of R&B music.