[chajin]

Just surprised with all that they can’t avoid being herded like sheep into the same corporate pop-culture trap like everyone else.

Most people today think of music as a commodity rather than an art form, something to flow in the background like having electricity or running water.

Moreover, most people today use music as a drug, rather than a door into their souls and/or a gateway to theophanic experience. That is why overproduced music of all pop genres, from country to dubstep, exacerbates the druglike qualities of music--incessant beat, perpetually loud dynamics, minimal melody--the same way crack exacerbates the druglike qualities of coca leaves, or RedBull exacerbates the druglike qualities of coffee beans.

[ExTxMarine]

Most people today think of music as a commodity rather than an art form, something to flow in the background like having electricity or running water.

My kids (all millennials) are some of the few in their age ranges who have actually listened to music for the words, the artistry, the beat, and the soulfulness.

All four of my daughters have surprised so many of their friends parents when they can sing along to Charlie Pride, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Duran Duran and Buddy Holly. I think the best part is that they know the verses, not just the chorus and often they even know the bridge and guitar riffs. Surprises the hell out of most of the parents.

I am so proud of the fact that they appreciate MUSIC as art - not just as some kind of background noise. As you stated, most millennials can't even fathom the idea that Ella Fitzgerald had a voice, while Lady Gaga has a gimmick!

[cuban leaf]

Your post reminded me of something else I figured out around 1998. That was when I was in my daughter’s high school gym waiting for basketball practice to end. On the bleachers, CD’s were scattered everywhere next to portable players. EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM was home recorded. That was when I realized recorded music was dead.

And as far as I’m concerned, the IPod killed recorded music.

Which is why people enjoy GOOD live music these days. And I think quality live music will continue to thrive, but with stuff like uTorrent, and the attitude toward recorded music, I think the only way people will make money in recorded music is going to be in commercial jingles, etc.

Live performanc will be where it is at, at least as a real income source for the performers themselves. Kinda like professional sports.