“Select 3 examples of music, sound or noise that you would include [in the Golden Record]. Include links (if possible) of your choices. Write a 30 word description for each example. Then write a 60 word rationale of why you think these 3 selections should be included on a golden record project.”

 

Example 1:

A cheering crowd | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FLgShtdxQ8

This is the sound of thousands of people clapping, cheering and whistling together in celebration of a special event. An air of adrenaline and excitement is evident!

 

Example 2:

A walk in a forest | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=478TeAxm12g

In this example, prominent sounds include rushing water, singing or cawing birds, soft footsteps and rustling trees and plants. The soundscape is free-flowing and organic.

 

Example 3:

Bishop Gunn – Makin’ It | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmqi6QYs3jg

The parts of this song consist of a drum set, one bass guitar, two guitars and one voice. A standout feature of the song is the soulful quality of the singing.

 

My rationale for choosing these examples:

The sounds of a cheering crowd and taking a walk in the forest demonstrate how individual sounds can be especially powerful when combined. There is certainly beauty in the simplicity of a sound on its own, but there are arguably effects that only combinations of sounds can achieve. In comparison to the music on the Golden Record, “Makin’ It” is not unique in this sense, but I thought that it was a particularly passionate and uplifting song worthy of sharing with others.