Digital Media in Today's Music Industry

As far as I can remember, digital media has always had a huge impact in the music industry; in my lifetime anyways. In my earlier years, it seemed things such as televisions, computers, and telephones were considered to be more of a luxury. Although that may occasionally be the case in modern times, a good majority of people in America consider it a normality to have personal televisions and computers, with Internet as well. If not, then there are so many places to access Internet and cable, such as libraries, restaurants, friends’ houses, etc. With that being said, music has multiple ways of being exposed to the public at all times, which allows the music industry to remain so alive and successful.

Back in the day, becoming famous and pursuing a successful music career seemed to be a one in a million chance. Many still refer to “making it big” as just that. But is it really still one in a million? There are a couple big reasons why I feel this could be a valid question.

#1 :
Just as I touched on the subject before, things in digital media are becoming more attainable to the common person as time progresses, like computers and televisions. In recent times, there are great varieties of what we as individuals can get a hold of in regards to making music. For example, the software and equipment for recording is easily available for anyone with money to spare. Garageband is a common one for Apple users. Pro Tools, Logic, and Reason are just a few of the many types of music producing software available to buyers. And of course the actual music equipment, such as the microphones, instruments, etc. are sold at local music stores, as well as all over the Internet. Auto-tune is also used in producing music. A little too often? We’ll talk about that later.

#2 :
Social networking is allowing just about each and every individual to have the opportunity to publicize their music and/or musical videos online. Myspace back then, and now Facebook are both social networking sites that support musicians in getting their music out there to the public and building their fan base. Youtube is a huge supporter of this action. Everyday, so many people get Youtube channels and post videos or watch them. The amount of “views” and “likes” of a video often range from a few to in the millions!

Youtube is well known in the journey of many musicians’ roads to fame. Nowadays, popular music artists are placing emphasis on their first discovery or stepping stone as being Youtube. An extremely famous fellow, known as Justin Bieber is a predominate example of this. As much as most of us don’t want to admit it, the Biebs made it big, starting out with covering songs on Youtube and so many others are joining him. Back then, music videos were significantly associated with famous artists on television channels, e.g. MTV, VHI, and BET. Whereas today, anybody with a camera and other accessible equipment can make and publicize their own music videos and enter them into the cyber world. It’s crazy how professional looking some turn out! Finally, I would like to talk a little bit more about Auto-tune. For those who aren't too familiar with it, Auto-tune is basically a musical device used to alter the pitch of vocal and instrumental music in recording and performing. Many musicians use it quite frequently, but some aren't too fond of this tool. People argue that it is abused, overused, and needs to get out of the music industry. It is criticized as just another way for a talentless individual to become undeservingly famous, just as some feel about most social networking sites altogether. Personally, I find the cool effects it can add to a song pretty neat and sometimes it's hilarious when used in a comedic sense, but I can see how its excessive use can be irritating to some.

What do you guys think about the music industry and this kind of digital media? Do you think the path to becoming a famous musician is not as rare as it used to be? Don’t get me wrong, I love seeing new artists and what they have to offer! Not to mention, everyone has their own idea of “fame.” I’m just very interested and curious as to what everybody thinks. Also, check out this link if you want to hear and see an examples of when excessive Auto-tune can be funny!

http://www.youtube.com/user/schmoyoho?feature=CAQQwRs%3D

Posted by: Shannon Pitt