The Evolution of Music: Has It Really Declined, or Are We Just More Sensitive to Change?
The age-old debate about whether music quality has really declined or if we're simply more critical of change persists amongst music enthusiasts and professionals alike. This article explores the reasons behind the perceived degradation of music from the 50s, 70s, and 80s to the present, looking at both the business side of music and the influence of societal and technological changes.
The Business of Music: A Shift in Focus
One prominent argument is that the music industry has evolved into a more business-centric entity, driven by the pursuit of profits rather than the development of artistic talent. This transformation has led to a decline in the soulfulness of music, with a greater emphasis on formulaic production and public appeal.
''Music is more of a business now than ever. All the soul is gone because companies are not interested in developing talent but in maximizing profits. They’ve always made money but it ain’t ever enough, so they invest in formulas.''
The focus on commercial viability has resulted in the prioritization of attractive image over raw talent, and pre-made songs over live performances. The industry's push for generated content and investment in sound-alike artists has further distanced the music from its original roots.
Art Imitates Life: The Influence of Cultural Trends
A counter-argument suggests that music has not necessarily declined in quality but rather that the music we are exposed to has shifted to reflect contemporary cultural trends. The evolution of music from the 50s to the present is a testament to how music and culture have co-evolved, with the renaissance period in the 90s and beyond bringing its share of changes.
''For example, Elvis Presley was entirely too much for parents to handle, and now parents listen to the things that they have previously disapproved of. My music is steadily getting better and better than the renaissance for instance, back when we were living with the things that we have evolved from technically, physically, emotionally, and as a society, bards were playing minstrel music and then the things we liked were completely and utterly different from what we like now.’’
The evolution of music, especially in the 90s and beyond, aligns with the changing societal norms, reflecting themes of depression, sex, drugs, and partying. This shift is primarily attributable to the commercialization of hip-hop and rap, spearheaded by artists like The Notorious B.I.G. and Lil Wayne. These artists popularized club songs, songs about women, drugs, and partying, which laid the foundation for the modern musical landscape.
Social Media and the Echo Chamber Effect
The rise of social media has created a new era of societal pressures and expectations that influence consumer behavior and artistic expression. The constant comparison with others' curated lives on platforms like Instagram and Twitter has led to a sense of inadequacy and a need for escapism.
''Current-day addiction to social media combined with faulty society logic as far as their ideas of what life is is the cause.''
Artists, influenced by both real and perceived societal pressures, have begun to write about topics that their audiences can relate to, such as depression and accessible escapes. This cycle of creation and consumption traps individuals in a continuous loop of dissatisfaction and a need for quick fixes, further perpetuating the cycle of content.
Ultimately, the perceived decline in music quality is a complex issue, influenced by both the business-side of the industry and the cultural and social changes that have shaped our world. Understanding these dynamics can help us appreciate the evolution of music and its role in our lives.