Today's music, many love it, others hate it. "They just don't make music like they used to" seems to be a common statement of today. Now more than ever, there is a big debate over which songs fit into which categories, and many overlap. For example, songs labeled "new country" now feature rap artists and a more pop feel than the old western country songs.
Opinions on what is considered a category of song may change throughout the years, but the culture of songs continues to grow. As L.B. Bermingham states, “Culture always builds on the past.” This continues to be true, especially in the music department. It’s always interesting to listen to music categorized by year. For example, 70's music is comparably different from 80’s music. Although they can be seen as similar since they are 10 years apart, the majority of songs from each era have a distinct sound, which places them in their respective category. The sound quality, lyrics, and meanings all evolve as time goes on. What is popular now will soon be what is known as outdated and a part of the 2020’s music.
An aspect of music that is particularly notable is the use of older tunes in today’s music. Many mash-ups have been created with similar-sounding songs because they flow together with similar rhythms and beats. Some songs even have the exact same sound as other songs do. Even though this is not an uncommon occurrence, the public still seems to enjoy a song that sounds the same as others. Even if a new song sounds like an old one, there will be someone out there who enjoys it. Why is this? Is there a bigger emphasis on the artist and more people like the person rather than the music? Is it the feeling of familiarity that makes the song liked? Is repetition from song to song a good thing and possibly a good idea? Who knows, but there is something to be said about the success rate of songs when copying a popular tune with similar sounds.
A question to consider is at what point does a song become too much like another in order to be reprimanded? Should there be a penalty for similar-sounding songs, or is that just the nature of music?
I think it's a bit unfortunate that "music just isn't what it used to be." I feel this statement in my bones! I'm only 29, and the majority of the music I listen to comes from before the 2000's. I do think there is something to be said about that. It makes me worried that at some point we may all suffer from the boring case of "sameness." Our music will sound the same, we'll all look the same, act the same etc. I think it's dangerous territory to be walking into. I actually welcome the idea of artists going back to their "roots" or refusing record deals in an effort to try to maintain their authenticity. I hope that we all choose to do that in life as well!
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