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.
The Score Magazine www. thescoremagazine. com
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