the way the music died journal entry

There has been a true "perfect storm" when it comes to the music industry and how so much of it has changed over the past 20 years. Due to the consolidation of the various record labels of the past, the music industry has had to pay a high price in artistry. Since major corporations were also taking over or merging with record companies, the focus of the music was no longer the important goal. It was now all about big business and corporate quarterly earnings. The music industry was not meant to be short term oriented. It takes time to develop an artist and a following, but due to public companies constantly having to turn profits they are constantly looking for the next quick superstar and hit. The quality of the music and performance has now taken the back seat. David Crosby speaks about how much has changed since corporate America has taken over the industry that he loved. He explained how when he first started in the industry he was surrounded by record company executives who were record collectors and truly loved music. He is frustrated to see that recording companies are now run strictly by lawyers and accountants who have no knowledge of music nor seem to care to find out. Their sole focus is on the big money. MTV has also had a huge impact on the music industry. When it came on the scene 20 years ago, it solidified the beginning of the end of the way music had always been received. It was all about marketing a new "product" and didn't care about the substance.MTV could also make or break an artist. Some feel that if a song is played over and over the freshness eventually wears down and so does the infatuation with the artist. Instead of following the saying, "less is more," MTV believed in the idea of "more is more."The industry today is treating music as a disposable item. Convenience has taken over in today's busy world. We don't have to go to the store and buy a new CD or album to hear our favorite song; we can simply download it on line. This also brings about the topic of internet piracy. This has been a true source of loss of revenue for the music industry. It seems society is constantly one step behind technology when it comes to protecting its interests. The bottom line is that it is obvious that the music industry has changed due to Corporate America, technology and the people involved. This was inevitable, as is what will occur 20 years from now. Nothing can stay the same forever, but there is a lesson here that we all must learn. It is important to gain knowledge from the past and apply it to the future. I don't feel the music "died," I believe it has evolved, for better or worse, it is up to the individual to decide.