Quote:
Originally posted by King of Pop
Welcome, Bill!
My question is in terms of the general public and comparing today’s music industry with the one of say, 20 years ago or so.
With the rise of digital music, social media and technology in general, has there been a fall in the credibility of sales and the quality music? In other words, are sales still indicative of how great an album is or just an indicator of how accessible an album is? For example, if an album were to reach Thriller’s level of success with the help of digital influence, would it be deserving of the same level of respect? And, is it even fair to make a comparison like this?
I know that’s like, five long-winded questions, but I hope you can understand what I’m trying to inquire.
Thank you!
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Sales have only ever been one of many possible indicators of the quality of an album or song. Every generation, great songs and albums get overlooked while some blockbusters fail to stand the test of time. And of course others absolutely do.
As for Thriller sales, I think you could make the argument that 21 -adjusted for era - sold as well, or certainly close to as well. Does it deserve the same level of respect?
Digital is just a platform. They're were great albums on 78, great ones on 8 tracks, cassettes, cds etc. And of course there have been and will be great ones in the digital era. I'd c argue that with the enormous advances in home recording technology and the drop in cost of the same, there's more good music than ever. Sometimes I wonder if that makes the great music harder to find. But in general, I absolutely refute the notion that somehow music was better in the past.
