Lecture: Everything is a Remix

Introduction to Remix

• Definition: Remixing involves combining or editing existing materials to create something new.
• Origin: Initially associated with music, particularly in the late 20th century with hip-hop.
  • Example: The Sugarhill Gang's "Rapper's Delight" sampled Chic's "Good Times."
• Accessibility: Today, anyone can remix any medium (music, video, photos) without expensive tools or skills.

Historical Examples

• William Burroughs: Coined the term "heavy metal" and used cut-up techniques in literature, an early form of remix.
• Led Zeppelin: Known for uncredited use of other artists' material, demonstrating early music remixing.

Remix in Film

• Hollywood relies heavily on existing material: sequels, remakes, adaptations.
• Example: Star Wars
  • Influences include Joseph Campbell's monomyth, Flash Gordon serials, and Akira Kurosawa films.
• Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill": A sophisticated mashup using elements from various films.

Creativity as a Process

• Copying: Vital for learning and foundational development.
  • Example: Bob Dylan's early covers, Richard Pryor's imitation of Bill Cosby.
• Transformation and Combination:
  • James Watt improved the steam engine through repair and transformation.
  • Gutenberg's printing press was a combination of pre-existing technologies.

Legal and Cultural Implications

• Intellectual Property: Originally aimed to encourage creativity by providing temporary exclusivity.
• Challenges: Over-expansion leads to litigation, such as sample trolls and patent trolls.
• Historical Context: Laws like the Copyright Act of 1790 aimed to promote learning and progress.

Conclusion

• Evolution of Ideas: Creativity is a remix of existing ideas, concepts, and media.
• Social Evolution: Reflects how society's understanding and laws need to adapt to the nature of creativity.
• Call to Action: Encourages a shift towards valuing common good and sharing of ideas for societal benefits.

Final Notes

• Production: Kirby, the creator of the series, encourages support via Kickstarter and Patreon for future projects.
• Series Update: The original series has been polished and combined into a single presentation for posterity.