There’s an interesting post (and ensuing conversation) at TW Walsh about The Devaluation of Music which contradicts the argument that modern technology is a friend of indie bands. Now, I’m not in a band and never will be, so I’m really in no position to speak about this, but I tend to think these kinds of comments are a little over-the-top, if not completely wrong.
It’s never been a sound economic decision to start a band and never will be. Those that “make it” usually end up making less money than most of their fans. The superstars are the overwhelmingly rare exception. But in spite of this, there are more people making music every
year. Why? Because music is a visceral experience, not a rational one. People make music because to not do so is simply not an option.
New forms of technology may change (radically, perhaps) the ways in which we make and experience music, but it will not kill the unquenchable desire.
Many people complain that digital music is less meaningful because it has no physical connection. That may certainly be their experience, but I think it is arrogant to suggest that those who grow up with digital music are incapable of appreciating it in the same way. Have we children of cassette tapes lost something intangible because we grew up as the record was dying? Has everyone who grew up with records and the radio lost something intangible because they experienced music as passive consumers instead of having to actually play an instrument or sing, like those who grew up in the 19th century?
The answer to all of those questions is yes. We have all lost something. But we all have loved music. The medium through which we encounter music may be incredibly important insofar as it shapes our experience. But I do not think any one way is intrinsically superior to any other.
The 21st century has allowed me to hear hundreds, if not thousands of bands I would never have encountered in another era. I love my music, and treasure it, and no less because it is increasingly a bunch of bytes on a computer.
Are we in for a change? Absolutely. Will it be bad for some artists and listeners? Of course. But I do not think the doomsday is here. And I hope that our technological advances really will enhance the experience of creating and listening to music for most people. I hope that bands can discover ways to promote themselves with the help of blogs and filesharing, instead of being hurt by them. I hope that the medium of the computer creates opportunities for new formats and approaches to the presentation of music. And I hope that the RIAA and those who are tied to “the way it’s always been done” don’t win out, and hold back innovations that can make all our lives better.
Anyways, one band that I certainly would never have encountered in a previous era is We Will Build. I found out about them from I Guess I’m Floating back in April and have been enjoying them ever since. Check out of a few of their songs, and share in the enjoyment of the music.
Out These Doors Inside (fantastic song – highly recommended)
3D Classic
Rain and Sun
And there are a bunch more available here.