Obscurity and Influence

Political commentary switched off for a moment...

Dr. Slammy has a terrific albeit too brief discussion of the influence that obscure bands, such as Big Star and Joy Division, have had on the nature of music that we hear today. 

I would argue that influence is far longer lasting than popularity.  And far more important to the health of music.  Because the flavor of the week comes and goes.  How many people want to be in a band because of the current hit single?

How many people want to play jangly guitar like Alex Chilton? Or play the drums like Bill Berry?  Or how many of us want to possess the raw don't care punk rock attitude of The Replacements?  Wouldn't we all kill for the energy and irregularity of an Iggy and the Stooges performance? Don't people want just one ounce of the cool of a Lou Reed? 

Popularity is brief and fleeting for most musicians and bands.  However, to be truly inspired by a song, musician, or sound is transcendent.  Regardless of the genre or style.

Sales make a song or band present.  They become inescapable whether the song is inspiring or a piece of throw away sonic crap. The song that sells that is played on mainstream radio dominates because of the organization of the recording and radio industry, not because it inspires. 

Influence derives from the feeling that music leaves with you.  You want more, you desire more... yes, yes... it fulfills you.  A great song that speaks to you fills that powerful need within you.  True inspiration does not just come from what is selling.

Pure influence makes you want to pick up your instrument -- whatever it is -- and play.  And sing, regardless of your ability to sing.  It leads you to write your own stuff, record your own sound.  To do!  To act with or without musical precision.

Too bad the music industry does not remember that.

Switch back on...