From Flappers to Rappers

"The Great Gatsby" chose the music that they did for the movie because it not only reflects what the 20's were like, but it also has ties to today's world.  The music is current and fresh but the instruments and beats behind the lyrics has a 1920's feel to it.  Take for example the song "Crazy In Love".  This was originally performed by Beyoncé a few years ago, making it a current song, but by adding in the instruments popular to that time period, it creates a 1920's atmosphere.  By using such current music, the movie engages its viewers because they can relate to the songs, but by putting a 1920's spin on them it still maintains the era.  I believe that the music was a successful rhetorical device because it helps to relate the two time periods.  Gatsby's time was filled with extravagant parties, excessive drinking, and lavish living.  Times today, although further advanced, are not too different.  The music helps to create the mood of the movie with every song.  For example, when "A Little Party Never Killed Nobody" starts to play, the mood instantly rises not only for the listener but also in the movie scene.  The party booms with joy and excitement and the song becomes faster and louder reflecting the extravagance of the party.