Music: Year In Review

Much like life, music is ever-changing. With technological advances, music always seems to lead the way in what is considered “trendy.” So much has changed in music with the availability of home studios, computers, and the internet. Artists can now write, produce, and distribute their music simply by uploading it to sites like YouTube and having it receive worldwide recognition in a matter of moments. But this can be a double-edged sword for those who want good music and talented artists.

While a number of music enthusiasts have learned to use the mass appeal of the internet to their advantage, it is becoming increasingly apparent that Andy Warhol was more right than even he could have imagined. This revolutionary medium that fits in your pocket has opened the door for a number of people who otherwise might never have been seen before, let alone by millions. Through this exposure, some have even gained a fan base.

With shows like The Voice and American Idol, we have been introduced to a different type of celebrity. Seeing the explosion of independent artists on YouTube shows that the wall that once kept so many mediocre performers from receiving notoriety and fame is no longer an obstacle for some.

This could be a positive thing if you have a true passion and talent for entertaining an audience. Unfortunately, it seems more and more of today’s artists (if you can call them that) are sucking up the airwaves and taking up valuable space with mediocrity.

Sadly, we may have to endure much more mediocrity before people begin to miss artists like Etta James, Fats Domino, and bands like The Moody Blues, ELO, and The Eagles.

I am still determining what the future holds for these instant stars. However, I hope they see this as an opportunity to develop as artists. The goal isn’t simply to gather their 15 minutes of fame and laugh all the way to the bank. Let us hope the next crop of internet superstars can set the bar slightly higher. Because as the saying goes, stars fade, but art lives forever.