This is unlike most other art forms , as most non-musical artists are not incentivized with the same vanity as music , thus yielding content with truly artistic inspiration . For example , sculptors are few and far between compared to musicians , and it can generally be assumed that they are not chasing fame . It is no coincidence that these sculptors are usually seen as artist of high quality with presumed expertise . This is not the case with musical artists . In America , musical artists are presumed to be living in their parents basement , chasing fame with their acoustic guitar unwilling to work hard and get a “ real job ”.
In reality , with few exceptions , aspiring musical artists often share similar fates . They are doomed to a life of original content dissemination via Facebook and Soundcloud , reassuring themselves that their big break is just one discovery away . These musicians seek artistic validation through notoriety , as opposed to a true artist who seeks validation through the emotions elicited by their art . These goals are not one in the same , though they sometimes can be achieved simultaneously . These aspiring artists often never achieve notoriety or true artistry because they have foregone the hard work , study , and practice needed to master a craft . Often , when an aspiring artist does not succeed at first , their first action is to reexamine aspects of their content that have little to do with music , such as marketability , public relations , and internet presence . Rarely do they ever say to themselves “ I just need to study music more ”. The ultimate result is further dilution of the quality of American pop musical content as a whole , which true musicians are critical of .
Though music is an art form that is abundantly practiced in America , it has become highly individualistic . Singer / songwriters write and produce their songs , which they market in order to make them money . If this is successful , they can sell tickets for fans to watch them play their songs . Bands spend most of their rehearsal time perfecting static songs and dance moves that are to remain the same between all performances . Clearly the emphasis is on showmanship more than musicality . Improvisation , collaboration , and audience participation are taboo , and strongly discouraged . Again , musicality is far down the list of priorities for these artists , and it often shows in the artistic quality of their content .
American music is the most diluted form of American art because many individuals pursue the hobby in hopes of acquiring attention , fame , and money , often resulting in inferior art . To put it colloquially , the bar has been set infinitesimally low . Real musicians are often seen as being overly cynical or critical of American music for this reason . There are 2 notes to be made of this . For musicians , ones cynicism is normal , and the result of the exploitation of the art form one has dedicated their life to . However , do not overlook true talent and artistry , because it does exist here and there , even in American pop music .
For aspiring artists , or those who have been struggling in their artistic goals , one will never be disappointed if they remember the true beauty of experiencing music . Do not seek validation through wealth and notoriety , because usually those things will not be achieved , resulting in a sense of failure . Seek validation through reaching anybody at all through music , even if it ’ s just your friends and family , or small audiences at open mics . Acquire self worth through the therapy you can provide yourself and others because you embrace music as a form of healing . Furthermore , be content in providing a means by which people can communicate in a form superior than normal interactions . This is the true artistry of music , and it is rarely accompanied by attention , fame , and money .
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