When one ponders the idea of music being broadcast from outer space, the next logical thought is typically what would such a thing sound like?
Would aliens ever try to reach out to us by beaming John Williams’ theme from Star Wars? That might seem a little confrontational.
What about Major Tom resurfacing after all these years to serenade NASA scientists with tales of what he’s seen while “floating in a most peculiar way?” That may be a little far-fetched. Even for Bowie fans.
Or indeed, what about those ominous tones from Close Encounters of the Third Kind being used for real? Any of these thoughts would make more sense than a member of the Black Eyed Peas broadcasting his newest single from Mars.
Oh wait…
Listen to the rover Curiosity broadcast “Reach for the Stars” by will.i.am from Mars here:
Sure the technical marvel of a song being broadcast from roughly 700 million miles away is of tremendous importance, and if such a feat inspires just one child to “reach for the stars” then the whole venture would indeed be worth it. Still, I can’t help but stifle a bit of a giggle when will.i.am talks about producing something “timeless.” Really? Is it the orchestral accompaniment to Lil Jon’s screams that push this tune into the historical category? This statement from a man who also has the production of “My Humps” on his resume is laughable to say the least. Plus, in my opinion, the whole experience is quite a step down from NASA beaming the Beatles’ “Across the Universe” into space in 2008.
Perhaps the only note that salvages this story is that will.i.am was not the only celebrity invited to watch the Curiosity’s landing earlier this month. Also in attendance was Morgan Freeman, Seth Green (wait, Dr. Evil’s son got an invite?), and in perhaps the most fitting inclusion…Wil Wheaton.
Somehwere Sheldon Cooper is shaking his fist in rage.
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