Can popular music achieve genuine political change?

Regarding the relationship between pop music and politics, it is obvious that specific context and events emphasises the reception and impact maintained within society, and I believe this to be extremely fickle concerning matters to inspire change.

Ultimately it seems that an artist needs to have a hypocritical stance in order to create a following and express viewpoints, which fundamentally conform to the hegemony of the music industry.

Don’t get me wrong, there have been numerous attempts made by artists, which raise ‘both consciousness about and funds for political causes’ (Shuker) such as ‘band aid’ which ‘proved to be more successful than any of those involved had anticipated.’ (Street) However you have to question whether it’s the music or self serving performers that influenced impact.

It seems that if something will evoke moral panic, then politicians will enforce change, if only to maintain a certain ideology within today’s culture.

Does the emergence of the digital download signal the end for the music industry?

The introduction of the digital download has profoundly changed the way in which people consume music. This has come as both a hindrance and a positive contributor to the impact of the music industry, where the consumer market determines profitability.

Although held negatively responsible, the phenomenon of Napster as a means of ‘sharing’ commercially produced and copyrighted music files, implied revolution due to its portable format and extensive variety. In some cases minority artists may not have received the same success and exposure without the aid of such software.

Despite the introduction of Itunes in 2003, its true success within the market came with the removal of DRM on songs, which ultimately encouraged consumers that the legal download was more appealing.

In conclusion it seems that when the industry was more willing to comply with the prevailing technology, that they were really able to dominate the market and regain their receding power.