Opinion: Walk The Line – How Much Has Music Changed?
Just how much has music changed over the past 50 years? We have huge stars today such as Adele, Jessie J, Chris Brown and Drake to name a few. These are all iconic people in the music industry, who are looked up to so much by the young and the old of the world today. Millions of pounds are earned by the stars of music for sometimes only a single album, unlike those who plied their trade 50 years ago.
Like many other industries our world is made up of here in 2012, music is home to some of the richest and most famous people across the globe. One significant question I have though, is why has the value of these singer- songwriters increased so highly?
There have been many singers both male and female who have touched hearts all over the world with their music. A lot of those did it for free, due to their sheer love and passion for both singing and performing. Some just loved performing; it helped improve confidence, self esteem and many other aspects. Can we question the commitment and effort put in then to now? Do the current music stars of the world deserve the rich and luxurious lives they lead now?
I for one am a fan of historical music and am a regular listener of Johnny Cash. I find Johnny to be an inspiration not only for his music, but the determination and desire to get where he did. I can only imagine the sort of money he would receive had he still been around; performing to many people in England and America today. I am not attempting to determine whether pop stars today deserve money more than those of the past. I would be unable to justify such a statement, as I believe hard work is done today to ensure music is of a high standard for all those listening. I’m just simply left asking questions as to why so much has changed in the last 50 years, not only financially but overall as an industry.
Albeit, technology has vastly improved over the last 50 years, enabling much better performances and sound effects in gigs and shows. This will have a big impact on sales and custom, further generating more income for hosts and venue holders.