Music has been one of the most powerful tools to create change, spark a movement or produce an action for society. Over the centuries, we have seen the evolvement of music and the impressive results that it has created over time. The ability to unite a nation when it's under tribulations, spark the love between two enemies and ignite anger between peers.
Yes, music has a power. A power that is slowly losing its authenticity.
In 2016, we hear the same songs on the radio, Spotify, Pandora, Youtube, and iTunes. The same sob story about someone cheating, someone lying, someone in love, someone ready to kill a h*e, someone ready to die.
Yes, it seems as though music has lost its magic.
We, as artists, have destroyed the one tool that had the capability to move a nation and now use it to express our sob stories. We have killed its initial purpose and now only use it to promote our own self-worth. No longer will our children be able to hear "Eye of the Tiger" and get motivated to create change or overcome an obstacle. No longer will we be able to hear the "Star-Spangle Banner" and remember those who fell and died for our rights.
The music we hear today only tells us that we don't have the right body, need somebody, or should give up on our bodies because it's "All About That Bass."
Can we name any artist still looking to inspire young minds within our society? It seems as though whenever a star rises, the intent of wanting to stir change is their initial motive. However, time and time again, we see young artist slip into the common step and beat of those before them.
Country artists changing to pop and "Indie" bands turning mainstream. No artist is staying true to the initial intent of the art of music. Music has lost its pioneers and now is something we drown ourselves in. Instead of dealing with our problems, we drown ourselves in the music made by those who wrote about their problems.
It's a never ending cycle that seriously needs to be stopped.
We call ourselves originals when really we are just impostors. We don't know real pain and real suffering. We sing about our breakups and expect others to empathize instead of using our platforms to inspire change in our messed up society.
Sure, 10 percent of the music industry today may have artists looking to continue the authenticity of music. Maybe there is a hipster looking to make a difference, or have their big breakthrough. Maybe they're looking to make a change or start a movement and for those, we congratulate.
To the rest, we wait for you to wake up and see the importance of your platform.