Blog Post #3: What's Current Creates Currency

3. I think popular music reflects the majority of our younger society's beliefs and values, but at the same time, I think it can dictate what we believe. A lot of artists sing about what's happening in our society today, which helps explain what most young people believe. On the other hand, since popular artists have a lot of influence, the messages in their music can change what their fans believe.

4. Music usually becomes popular because of the popularity of the artists who sing it. Well-known artists are the ones whose music is played most often on the radio, because these artists have the most power and influence on consumers, as opposed to lesser-known artists. Occasionally, unknown artists' songs become popular, but I think that's because their music is considered revolutionary and/or different.
Everyone has a different definition of what they consider to be art. I think 'pop' art can be 'real' art, because to me, almost anything is art. If a person creates something that they think is art, then it should be considered art.

5. Depending on the type of media, different genres of music are used to entertain. Music is used to add interest to media. Without music, most media would be very uninteresting. If you think about it, almost all commercials, TV shows, and movies have some type of music in them, and that's because it adds interest.

6. I don't think music shapes peoples' ideologies as much as peoples' ideologies shape the type of music they listen to. People choose to listen to music that they like and that matches their beliefs. They wouldn't listen to music if they didn't agree with its message or if it changed their beliefs.

7. A lot of music is about cultural values, especially the music of today. Music is a way to send messages and ideas, and artists utilize music for that reason. Many popular artists spread their opinions through their music, which is usually the popular opinion of our culture. Music is a way to explain and spread cultural values.