Before the Music Dies (2006)

A documentary surrounding the current landscape of the music industry currently coping with the homogenization of artists and musical styles, focusing on money instead of the pure art form.  This movie takes a deep look at how Clear Channel Radio negatively changed the rules, butting heads with independent music labels for control of a nation’s musical taste that is quickly decaying from the rays of radio waves beating down the creativity that once blossomed.  It also takes into consideration how those rules are now changing with the independent syndication provided with the power of the internet.
The movie brings the point home that what we really need to combat these trends are people that will actively seek out new music, throwing away what they know and is comfortable for something that expands their horizons.  I, myself, am probably more guilty of this than anyone, I listen to the same songs for years and years, which is indicative of the sort of passive interest I’ve given to music in my life lately.  Like anything else, it takes effort.

If you’re an artist tired of an industry that encourages sex appeal over musical content?  Wear a mask.  (I’m serious)