Allen Johnston – The Music Specialist www.asha.com
In today's world, music has become ubiquitous. With the rise of technology and the accessibility of recording equipment, anyone can transform their bedroom into a studio.
However, this ease of access has also flooded the market with aspiring artists who may not possess remarkable talent. In my extensive travels, I've encountered countless acts, but only a few truly stand out.
There are several factors contributing to this saturation:
Many musicians lack a fundamental understanding of musical notation, treating music more as an art than a science.
A prevalent mindset among entertainers is that if their music resembles that of successful artists, it will automatically appeal to the masses.
Copycat culture prevails, with artists remixing existing songs and claiming them as original creations. However, these imitations often pale in comparison to the originals.
Merely being local does not guarantee artistic merit. Despite numerous artists attempting to emulate popular figures like Soul Jah Boy, few manage to produce music of substance.
Consider this: how many variations of a chant can one create? States like Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Florida boast countless songs that mimic the "Call and Response" tradition, yet few offer anything truly innovative.
This phenomenon extends beyond hip-hop, permeating the gospel music scene. Many "holy" artists lack genuine talent or integrity.
Religious affiliation does not guarantee success in the music industry. Many failed secular artists have transitioned to gospel, believing it to be an easier path to recognition.
Have you noticed the abundance of mediocre music across genres like rock, neo-soul, R&B, jazz, country, blues, and southern soul? Listening to radio, online platforms, or live performances has become tiresome, with artists prioritizing authenticity over commercial appeal.
As digital platforms replace CDs, the pace of music consumption accelerates. Who controls the playlist in this digital era? Those with unique talent or established fame can still monetize their craft, but for others, music sharing has made their work freely available.
With more people curating their playlists, the music industry demands innovation and creativity. Who will emerge as the next musical genius or multimedia visionary?
The question remains: Could you be one of them?
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