As I mentioned a couple of times before, some lofi music creators tend to use samples from the Simpsons episodes and scenes in their tracks. But why is that? Is it even legal?
Answering the first part: even though I am no lawyer, in majority of the cases it is breach of copyright. I have covered some areas such as music and visual art already. I believe using an image of a famous cartoon series is the same as using copyright materials. If it is without approval, the channel provider (such as YouTube) may take down your video any time without noting you. But what about the phenomenon? Why people use images? This is what I was interested in, while surfing on YouTube, listening to dope beats.
The Simpsons phenomenon and lofi beats
I believe on one side using these images and snippets adds a sense of nostalgia and familiarity to the tracks. Who didn’t watch the Simpsons in the ’90s? Probably those people will not read this article as well. Using these images and videos adds kind of a playful and light-hearted tone to a lofi beat, as the Simpsons is a well-known and loved show. And at the end adding nostalgia and vibe is the main element of lofi music.
Another reason why some lofi music creators use samples from The Simpsons in their tracks is likely due to the cultural significance and popularity of the show.
I mean The Simpsons has been on the air for over 30+ years and has amassed a large fanbase. Kids and generations grew up watching it all across the world. It is easily one of the most recognizable and beloved American TV series.
The familiarity and nostalgia associated with the show makes it an attractive sample source for lofi music and beat makers who are looking to add a sense of nostalgia and familiarity to their tracks.
The fun factor and happy mood
Additionally, The Simpsons is known for its witty and clever humor, and its use of satire. Why does it matter? This happy mood can be fitting with the laid-back and chilled out atmosphere that lofi music often creates. At the end offers a kind of funny and happy vibe which is a tonality (literally as most lofi songs are instrumental) beat makers seek.
The use of samples from the show can add a playful and light-hearted tone to the music, which can be appealing to listeners who are looking for something to study or relax to. And at the end we can all say, it works. You can find The Simpsons all over the stream channels, let it be a YouTube video or Spotify playlists.
In summary, it is likely that the popularity and cultural significance of The Simpsons that started the phenomenon. On the other hand its comedic nature also part of the reasons why many lofi music creators use samples from the show in their tracks.
Still assuming it is not my way respecting the copyright owners, but this is only my own opinion.
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