Within any given town it seems impossible to avoid a certain distinction concerning musical styles: bands that have grown and matured under the independent banner, and bands that wish very much to coincide within the mainstream.
Although these two styles share certain similarities inside the industry such as music videos and social status, one style of music seems to be content with being itself while the other seems to adopt the customary routine of the stereotypical alpha male.
And by stereotypical alpha male, I mean exactly that, except here in Florida we have the southern version; which is the basic working man cowboy who loves rap and Winger.
I bring this up only because aside from seeing alpha male countless times, I had to see it again at a show at The Buddha Bar a few nights ago which featured an eclectic mix of bands. The first band was an “indie” type band, and weren’t really received well as they weren’t playing to their normal type of crowd- whatever, no big deal. But as soon as the next band took the stage, the entire vibe changed. There were shouted proclamations to “fuck shit up!” and to “drink some fucking beer!” complete with numerous pelvic thrusts and growls- even the people watching the band before who were silent and reserved seemed more animated.
So I began thinking about the relationship between performer and audience, and the responsibility that comes with it to perhaps not encourage violence, drinking, or negative action.
Thoughts on this?
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3 comments:
The relationship between performer and audience does not include a responsibility in my eyes. To not encourage violence, drinking, or any negative action is up to the audience. They are the ones making the decisions to listen to a particular band or performer. John Mayor would be a good example of someone who tries to promote peace among individuals. But for the most part I would say most performers don’t think too much about that. They seem to be thinking a little bit more about fame and stardom. Not all but some if not most of them.
Hard to give a response. The audience is always subjected - yes, here I plan the passive voice - to the real-life performance of their beloved. In general, I think, musicians and well-known artists can influence their audience either when they set a good example or a bad one.
I agree that as long as we endorse their bad behavior bands will refuse to clean up their acts.
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