As I read Amusing Ourselves to Death, I realized that Postman doesn't take a solid stance against the influence of the music industry on public discourse. Although he makes references to music in relation to the radio and television, he doesn't specify if music is degrading our culture.
Postman mentions that the prevalence of music in aspects of television such as the news and commercials has given most things broadcast as entertainment. However, Postman doesn't state whether or not the music and the content of the music is desensitizing our world view and in essence degrading the culture.
I believe that although the messages being presented in the music are at times questionable, they represent a edgy trend that has been growing since the 50's. I'm referring to the rock and roll trend that was popularized by stars like Elvis and Chuck Berry. This trend represented youth and rebelliousness and their songs reflected this theme. Their songs were branded offensive not only because of their message, but also because of their personal habits. For example both Elvis and Ray Charles had drug problems.
The rock and roll of the 50's and 60's that was considered a danger to culture has now become part of today's culture. A legacy was formed and this legacy is now a valued part of our cultural heritage. Therefore, I believe that today's music can be compared to the music past generations because it continues to push the hot topics of today like sex and drugs. Today's music can be considered an evolution and change is necessary.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Postman talks about music a little bit in his book, An End to Education, and mentions its reach and significance...when Roger Waters produced a tribute album entitled Amused to Death, Postman acknowledged that this raised him to icon status among the young college intelligencia of the time.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you, Jon. There are so many songs that basically advertise sex or drugs; just negative things. For example, Sex On Fire -Kings of Leon or songs by like, Katy Perry and I must add many girls or people in general admire and look up to her. Most of her songs have some sort of negative message, "I kissed a girl and I liked it......" uhh. But in reality, messages like these in songs won't go away. They sell and that is all that counts now-a-days. Right?
ReplyDelete