Exactly what is wrong with the mainstream? (2114 hits)
Category: NoneRating: 1.23 on 111 reviews (Rate this item) (V)
Submitted by Axolotl (View user info) at 2008-02-22 13:08:42 EST
Why do people relentlessly hate things that are "mainstream?" It's something I've noticed more recently, especially among young people, to entirely dismiss what's popular as worthless and a waste of time.
"I hate Family Guy ever since it went mainstream and sold out!"
"Of course I don't have Kanye West on my ipod! I'm not mainstream like that."
"Eww, you like Eminem? God...what a sell out."
"Have you ever heard of the band Boner Destroyer? They only played one gig in 1982 and then lead singer Brad Gaylord o.d. on heroin but it influenced Bay Area thrash like...and...and...and..and...and...and..."
SOMETHING BEING POPULAR DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY MEAN IT SUCKS
Attn World: Led Zeppelin was mainstream, signed to a major record label, sold concerts, won grammies. So did the Chili Peppers, Springsteen, the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, etc.
Is it a mark of our culture, this hate toward anything that shows a glimmer of appealing to a larger audience? I understand elitist hipsters consider it a crime to listen to somewhat-accessible music, but this certainly wasn't a norm in the 60s and 70s? Maybe it's because our consumer culture is more driven by niches. There's no one television program all of America watches, or one band that unites everyone, or one celebrity everyone loves. That kind of total conformity I'm sure wasn't a good thing, but could it explain this backlash against popular artists today?
I'm not saying that mainstream bands are all excellent because they sell a lot of albums or people like them, nor am I saying that people should only listen to them and not explore other diverse genres. I'm saying that any artist has SOMETHING to bring to the table, whether entirely obscure or in the top 100. There's no artist or band so bad that you can't imagine anyone enjoying them (except Anal Cunt, but they try at it), even extremely mainstream artists have a huge fan base, even if it isn't necessarily you or me.
I don't listen to the radio, or watch MTV, so maybe I'm missing out on a sense of annoyance that certain bands get played a lot, but I wouldn't know. I see things on a far more equal footing, and while there's certain criteria of originality, technique and creativity that affect my judgment of bands, I can't say that any one is objectively better than another, because all we know is opinions. Which is why I have Britney Spears in the same section as Between the Buried and Me and Borknagar on my Itunes, and Miley Cyrus next to Morbid Angel and the Mars Volta.
Music shouldn't be a competition to see who can memorize more miniscule liner notes or wikipedia entry on bands, or who can rattle off the most obscure bands like you could win an award. If you like it, go for it. If you have an open mind but it makes you happy to listen to Nsync and all American Rejects non-stop, it's honestly nobody's place to judge you. Same if you love shrieking vocals and guitars so distorted that it's not even notes anymore, just noise. If you honestly enjoy your music, if it's Linkin Park or late 90's Sri Lankan hip-hop, you don't have to defend yourself against a goddamn thing.
So exactly what is wrong with the mainstream? Anyone out there want to explain it to me?
User Reviews
Submitted by Bubba2341 (user info) at 2008-02-25 18:33:24 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by CaptainThorns (user info) at 2008-02-25 09:33:23 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Four words:
Frank Zappa
Oingo Boingo
===========
"Goin'to Montana soon, gonna be a dental floss tycoon."
"Watchout where those huskys go, don't you eat that yellow snow."
"Never could make that Dynamo cum."
Submitted by CaptainThorns (user info) at 2008-02-25 09:33:23 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Four words:
Frank Zappa
Oingo Boingo
Submitted by Berty (user info) at 2008-02-25 06:47:51 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Elitists, if nothing else, make an effort to not be bland, boring, douchebags.
Long live the Oligarchy untill its inevitable death and rebirth.
Submitted by PerkMan (user info) at 2008-02-25 03:15:31 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
because people are idiots. I used to be one of those retards until I realized it shouldn't matter if anyone likes the music I like.
So I listen to everything. From My chemical romance, to tupac, to biggie, to lupie fiasco, to kanye, to sublime, to the doors, to fucking anything I god damn please!
Fuck off music elitist's!
Submitted by bob (user info) at 2008-02-25 01:29:34 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
The Tool song below is Hooker with a Penis, btw.
Submitted by Unabonger (user info) at 2008-02-25 00:06:21 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
i wish my parents were cool enough to have a record collection that was of interest to me.
Ax, the song also has the best title of any tool song: Hooker with a Penis.
Submitted by forensicgirl3 (user info) at 2008-02-24 21:43:29 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Manic-
You MUST get Songs from the Wood. Something tells me you'll like it.
Some of the song titles-
Jack-in-the-Green
Ring out, Solstice Bells
Velvet Green
Cup of Wonder
Submitted by MANICMOTHER (user info) at 2008-02-24 20:57:40 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
As a matter of fact I just found a "Thick as a Brick" LP this past summer at some strange garage sale in a barn in the middle of nowhere.
Perfect condition.
My little bro and I will end up murdering each other over my parents record collection when they're gone.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-24 19:05:42 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by forensicgirl3 (user info) at 2008-02-24 15:31:31 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Although I'm very biased because they're my favorite group of all time, I think Jethro Tull found that elusive perfect blend of being mainstream while maintaining artistic integrity.
They had some Top 40 hits, the catchy Locomotive Breath, Teacher, and Aqualung, but also had some albums that didn't climb the charts because the so called mainstream audience wouldn't have appreciated it. The die hard fans yes, but the entire album 'Songs from the Wood' was folky and outside the box. I love that album but the song 'Cup of Wonder' never would have made the Top 40.
Also the song 'Thick as a Brick' is actually a 45 minute song that was cut down for radio. The radio version would be considered mainstream but the whole album (or song in this case) is not.
---------
that's pretty cool you know Thick As a Brick. My dad bought the album when it came out, it's huge. It's like a fold-out newspaper, right? I haven't taken it out to look at it in a while...
Most of my dad's old vintage albums were stolen at a party in 1979. Kind of a big loss to him, he always loved his record collection. I almost never buy CDs anymore really.
Submitted by Saeki (user info) at 2008-02-24 18:04:43 EST (#)
Ranking: -1
Nothing. Those people who condemn popular music know there are a few gems; they just don't say so.
Submitted by forensicgirl3 (user info) at 2008-02-24 15:31:31 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Although I'm very biased because they're my favorite group of all time, I think Jethro Tull found that elusive perfect blend of being mainstream while maintaining artistic integrity.
They had some Top 40 hits, the catchy Locomotive Breath, Teacher, and Aqualung, but also had some albums that didn't climb the charts because the so called mainstream audience wouldn't have appreciated it. The die hard fans yes, but the entire album 'Songs from the Wood' was folky and outside the box. I love that album but the song 'Cup of Wonder' never would have made the Top 40.
Also the song 'Thick as a Brick' is actually a 45 minute song that was cut down for radio. The radio version would be considered mainstream but the whole album (or song in this case) is not.
Submitted by Tigre (user info) at 2008-02-24 13:31:40 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by loki (user info) at 2008-02-23 19:38:22 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I like U2 and I don't care that they aren't "cool" anymore.
--
Word.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-24 13:18:52 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
I'm trying to think of what Tool song that is without looking it up...Prison Sex? Stinkfist? I'm pretty sure it's off Aenima.
Submitted by Unabonger (user info) at 2008-02-24 03:22:47 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
It wouldn't be mainstream if people didn't like it. Anything on the radio or in your local music shop is from a band that 'sold out'. Suck it up and keep sending them your money. Without 'The Man' you wouldn't have a fucking CD to listen to.
__________________________
I met a boy wearing vans, 501s, and a
Dope beastie t, nipple rings, and
New tattoos that claimed that he
Was ogt,
From 92,
The first ep.
And in between
Sips of coke
He told me that
He thought
We were sellin out,
Layin down,
Suckin up
To the man.
Well now Ive got some
A-dvice for you, little buddy.
Before you point the finger
You should know that
Im the man,
And if Im the man,
Then youre the man, and
Hes the man as well so you can
Point that fuckin finger up your ass.
All you know about me is what Ive sold you,
Dumb fuck.
I sold out long before you ever heard my name.
I sold my soul to make a record,
Dip shit,
And you bought one.
So Ive got some
Advice for you, little buddy.
Before you point your finger
You should know that
Im the man,
If Im the fuckin man
Then youre the fuckin man as well
So you can
Point that fuckin finger up your ass.
All you know about me is what Ive sold you,
Dumb fuck.
I sold out long before you ever heard my name.
I sold my soul to make a record,
Dip shit,
And you bought one.
All you read and
Wear or see and
Hear on tv
Is a product
Begging for your
Fatass dirty
Dollar
So...shut up and
Buy my new record
Send more money
Fuck you, buddy.
Tool
__________
Submitted by thecaes (user info) at 2008-02-24 02:58:07 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
S'up, Ax.
I'll give you the lowdown, sure. I think people get pissed at whatever's "mainstream" for two reasons:
1. They were fans of that person, band, or thing before they got super-popular, and now that EVERYONE likes or has discovered that thing, they feel slighted. Most people will admit to going through this at some point.
2. There is such a thing as selling out, but people tend to think it happens more than it often does. Any artist or performer can alter their style in order to pander to the lowest common denominator, thereby selling mad copies of their shit and making them millions of dollars. But their 'old' fans are so hypersensitive to this, they come to believe that any sign of success must mean that their favourite person or band "sold out" and turned their back on them.
That's how I see it anyway. It's 3 am and I'm tired. Have a good night.
Submitted by bob (user info) at 2008-02-24 01:53:37 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
...because most of it is crap, with seldom exceptions?
Submitted by rob_berg (user info) at 2008-02-23 19:50:48 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
The mainstream is polluted.
Use another one.
Submitted by loki (user info) at 2008-02-23 19:38:22 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I like U2 and I don't care that they aren't "cool" anymore.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-23 18:02:41 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
Axolotl:
What I am trying to say is that you should be complaining about the people that listen to music because they are brainwashed to like whatever is popular. Are there dicks out there that limit themselves to music that is "underground" just to appear non-conformist? Sure, but they are far fewer in number. The major problem in our culture is not those few dicks that are afraid of anything popular. The big problem is the mainstream itself, as a system of distributing music. I sympathize with people who are frustrated with mainstream culture. I hate the mainstream because it's a system that promotes the lowest common denominator, not because I think it is impossible for a great artist to be a part of the mainstream.
Your post focuses on calling out a small minority of people that have a warped view of music, but it ignores the much bigger problems. You seem to think "selling out" is not a problem. I would say that it depends on your definition of "selling out". If it means sacrificing ANYTHING for the sole purpose of being richer, then that's bad. An artist's only obligation should be to make the art that he or she wants to make. Money is very much a secondary priority for good artists.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-23 17:42:08 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by MyNameIsTim (user info) at 2008-02-22 17:44:45 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
the holy grail of music is to have an intellectually honest band that makes music with partly the same formula that drives commercial success, yet still contains enough experimentation that will keep the music snobs entertained. see pet sounds, janis joplin, and hendrix for examples.
------------------
You think you know what the holy grail of music is, and you're calling me a dick? You're just stating what you like. You think you can describe the pinnacle of music in one sentence. You're a dick.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-23 17:33:16 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by MyNameIsTim (user info) at 2008-02-22 17:34:19 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
a) you're a dick.
b) this has been debated ad nauseum since about a thousand years ago. what makes a poem beautiful? what makes a painting beautiful? what makes a tune beautiful and/or *catchy?* nobody can define it. you just know it when you hear it.
-----------------------
It's very easy to define what makes something "catchy", you fucking moron.
You have no idea what you're talking about. There's a reason people have been discussing art and beauty for thousands of years. You just don't know what those reasons are so you think people shouldn't talk seriously about art anymore. The object of the discussion is not just to come to agreement on a definition for "beauty".
Aesthetics is usually a big part of art. Appreciation of aesthetics is pretty much subjective, but art encompasses much more than just aesthetics.
Submitted by Fartman (user info) at 2008-02-23 13:14:53 EST (#)
Ranking: -1
"to entirely dismiss what's popular as worthless and a waste of time."
--------------
You seem to be rather popular. Go figure.
Submitted by Sinistral (user info) at 2008-02-23 11:19:14 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Listen to "Know it All" by Lagwagon. I have a feeling you'll like it.
Submitted by Bubba2341 (user info) at 2008-02-23 11:16:10 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by lungfish (user info) at 2008-02-22 22:31:38 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by Bubba2341 (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:16:14 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Clapton left Cream because he thought "For Your Love" was too 'mainstream and a sellout'. Then he went on to do "Lay Down Sally" and "I've got a Rock n' Roll heart."
Pretentiousness is mainstream. . .
--------
Clapton left *The Yardbirds* because he thought "For Your Love"...and so on.
Pretentiousness is a hobby.
============
I thought about this as I was logging on. Why I typed Cream, I have no idea. I used to be able to name all the bands Clapton played with, my mind has...what?
Submitted by redskieslookfake (user info) at 2008-02-23 07:28:24 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by LittleMonster (user info) at 2008-02-23 11:52:59 GMT (#)
Ranking: 2
I own a hanson CD.
*dies*
The contracter has tried to burn/lose/smash/scratch it many times. It shall always live on so I can dance around to it whilst I clean up the gally. Nothing wrong with utterly crap music if it akes you smile. Having said that it's crap, I should have started that with "in my opinion..."
---
*shakes head*
Submitted by LittleMonster (user info) at 2008-02-23 06:52:59 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I own a hanson CD.
*dies*
The contracter has tried to burn/lose/smash/scratch it many times. It shall always live on so I can dance around to it whilst I clean up the gally. Nothing wrong with utterly crap music if it akes you smile. Having said that it's crap, I should have started that with "in my opinion..."
Submitted by simple_catalyst (user info) at 2008-02-23 01:30:51 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Aesthetics are over rated.
Look what I've gone and done!
I've this stupid ugly son
That looks like someone who works at a bank
I guess I'll call him Frank
My name is Frank and I'm a national man
I wanna help you with my data
I used to be a teller at a Wells-Fargo bank
But I'm a hero, and my name is Frank
My disciples spread my fame
Everybody's gonna know my name
Seems like I'm never alone
Everybody seems to want my bone
I'm not fascinating (x4)
I'm not fascinating (x5)
Jolene broke out of Santereta
She was a foxy mommasita
She went to some bars and drank
Then hitched a Frisco to see Frank
She knew frank was the only one
They'd grown up together in Pleasantown
But Frank's sudden fame
Put an end to the childhood games
The door was blocked by a groupie
Some blonde chick with a nose like Snoopy
She said Jolene could not come in
Jolene hit her with a 5th of gin
I've got Frank t-shirts, buttons too!
Don't forget the video!
Buy this book by my son,
It'll teach you how to get it on
Hi everyone My name is Frank
You know I've got you all to thank
For making me the new messiah
And showing me your fond desire
You dont need no shrink
Just listen to Frank!
You all got problems I can help you with
Mankie pleshan is a frustrating myth
Jolene said Frank what is this shit
I always knew you were a twit
I guess I'll go down to the mission
Get a burrito and do some bitching
Frank said Jolene please don't go
Stay and watch my video
We can go to my place for some popcorn
And Listen to Lightning Hopkins
Frank was so bummed he set himself on fire
Which blew his career as a messiah
Just then, Frank's mom tried to break Jolene's arm
Let go of me bitch your son's a jerk
Let go of me bitch, what the fuck?
I'm on fire
I'm burning for you
I'm a marter
Just like Carter
And it's true
I thought I was fab,
Guess I'm just a rehab
I'm flammable too
Your love is burning me like a cig
I thought I was cool but I'm just a pig
Submitted by cat_head (user info) at 2008-02-23 01:03:25 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Yeah Westlife and Boyzone are appalling but ridiculously successful boy bands from Ireland. Inexplicably, all women seem to love them. Drives guys mad...
Like the Backstreet boys but without the singing talent.
I wish Kurt Cobain had blown their heads off rather than his own.
Submitted by kuroneko_sama (user info) at 2008-02-23 00:18:37 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
metallica has sucked ass since they went mainstream
coincidence...maybe
Submitted by Amontillado (user info) at 2008-02-23 00:13:22 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
Everyone wants to prove that they're precious snowflakes. It kills them that they're not going to be special or remembered once they're dead, so they try to be unique in any way they can.
Submitted by ilikesteak (user info) at 2008-02-22 22:54:57 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/426562
Submitted by lungfish (user info) at 2008-02-22 22:31:38 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by Bubba2341 (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:16:14 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Clapton left Cream because he thought "For Your Love" was too 'mainstream and a sellout'. Then he went on to do "Lay Down Sally" and "I've got a Rock n' Roll heart."
Pretentiousness is mainstream. . .
--------
Clapton left *The Yardbirds* because he thought "For Your Love"...and so on.
Pretentiousness is a hobby.
Submitted by Crystle (user info) at 2008-02-22 22:08:59 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
ummm. that rating should have landed on another post. I'm sorry about it's non-sequitor nature.
But I really am a prude.
Submitted by Crystle (user info) at 2008-02-22 22:01:24 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
HEY!!!
I know, you're just trying to prove I'm not a prude, but it won't work, I tell you...
_--------------------------------------
Submitted by CaptainThorns (user info) at 2008-02-22 10:54:21 PST (#)
Ranking: 2
Christ Almighty, is that CRYSTLE?
Submitted by Bubba2341 (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:29:04 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Back in the middle 70s there was a song called "Brother Louie," by Stories. I thought it was great. My buds said it was too Top 40, and they didn't like it. I told them to fuck off, I like what I like. If everyone liked the same thing there would be thousands of musicians out of work.
Submitted by Bubba2341 (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:16:14 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Clapton left Cream because he thought "For Your Love" was too 'mainstream and a sellout'. Then he went on to do "Lay Down Sally" and "I've got a Rock n' Roll heart."
Pretentiousness is mainstream. . .
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:07:05 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by cat_head (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:05:44 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I totally agree. Don't you find that there's a dichotomy in the fact that the heaving populace can seem vapid and dumb, but also that the overall taste is strangely discerning. It's rare that pop music is totally terrible - it usually sounds pretty good. But if that doesn't float your boat, then fine. You're probably a bit more sophisticated and also maybe a bit snobby. But don't pretend you don't like Alanis Morisette or whatever!
There are exceptions though - thinking Westlife, Boyzone...
------------
Are you British? I've only heard of Westlife and Boyzone in passing as vague sort of British pop bands...are you confirming that they're terrible?
Now Rihanna on the other hand... <3
Submitted by cat_head (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:05:44 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I totally agree. Don't you find that there's a dichotomy in the fact that the heaving populace can seem vapid and dumb, but also that the overall taste is strangely discerning. It's rare that pop music is totally terrible - it usually sounds pretty good. But if that doesn't float your boat, then fine. You're probably a bit more sophisticated and also maybe a bit snobby. But don't pretend you don't like Alanis Morisette or whatever!
There are exceptions though - thinking Westlife, Boyzone...
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 21:01:00 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
@ Netimportant
That's a shitty attitude to have on the part of your girlfriend, but sadly it's not all that uncommon. It's really more of the I'm-better-than-you elitism that annoys me about it all. I can't wait to become famous and sell out either ;D
@ Susie_Derkins
hahaha I thought about that writing my next post
@ Sacrilicious
I respect you for how much cooler you are than me...only people who act like they don't care are cool.
@ Hidden101
That's an excellent track, but I must say "Connor Clapton committed suicide because his dad sucks" beats it out at least in levels of offensiveness.
@ St_Jimmy
Definitely got a point there. I define myself by my words and actions...how yer meant to do it, not by the clothes I wear.
@ MyNameIsTim
I can't believe that Madonna was ever popular...but then again she showed up like 10 years before I was born. I don't even think I know any Nickelback "fans," probably because their fanbase is too young to be in high school. Hey THere delilah is a bit too simple and trite for me...I can see why people like it though.
@ iddqd
Hey there, I AM one of those kids with new fangled stuff.
...Oh. that was your point.
;(
Submitted by iddqd (user info) at 2008-02-22 20:43:13 EST (#)
Ranking: -2
yeah, damn those kids and their new fangled stuff.
congrats on discovering the oldest rant ever thought of.
Submitted by Ltap (user info) at 2008-02-22 20:02:20 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by netimportant (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:03:51 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I have a girlfriend who rejects almost anything that is "mainstream," and acts like everyone who likes that kind of stuff is dumber than she is. She doesn't realize that by trying to fit in with her group of anti-mainstream friends, she is also a conformist.
--------------
Exactly. It's irony that being "anti-mainstream" and anti-conformist is actually conformist and mainstream at the moment.
Submitted by skrapmetal (user info) at 2008-02-22 18:22:50 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Shlongy (user info) at 2008-02-22 18:05:30 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
All I can say is that once the shit I like - whether it be music, sports, a broad, or whatever the fuck we're talking about - goes "mainstream" (i.e. gets popular with the masses), I lose interest and go on trying to be "edgy" by finding something ELSE that everyone in God's creation isn't "into".
Don't know why that is so...it just "is".
-----
You live on a golf course, already. Shlongy: Putting the "edge" in "Pitching Wedge" since 1961.
Submitted by Shlongy (user info) at 2008-02-22 18:05:30 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
All I can say is that once the shit I like - whether it be music, sports, a broad, or whatever the fuck we're talking about - goes "mainstream" (i.e. gets popular with the masses), I lose interest and go on trying to be "edgy" by finding something ELSE that everyone in God's creation isn't "into".
Don't know why that is so...it just "is".
Submitted by MyNameIsTim (user info) at 2008-02-22 17:48:43 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
when it comes down to pure music, with one instrument and maybe a vocal, it's tough to say what defines greatness. i fricking love that song Hey There Deliah.
Submitted by MyNameIsTim (user info) at 2008-02-22 17:44:45 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
that said, i've thought about this subject quite a bit.
popular songs are not popular because OMG EVERY1 IS A CONFORMIST AND A PUPPET ROBOT!!11. I think popular songs popular a)because they apply some obscure music theory that dictates this chord followed by that chord sound good, and b)contain lyrical content that everyone can relate to.
songs and bands sound 'generic' because they don't write their own music. babyface is still the most successful r&b songwriter, fricking 25 years after he started. he still writes the fuck out of mariah carey's songs and boys to men and etc. the same handful of successful songwriters write songs for the majority of popular musicians. you can't be a GREAT musician if you don't write your own material. no question about it. let's look at 3 examples:
look at madonna - popular success, absolutely no critical acclaim. just a worthless slut with a mediocre voice. doesn't write her own songs. if you like-like madonna's music you're a stupid cunt.
look at nickleback - popular success, moderate critical acclaim, tunes that are catchy as shit. decent, generic band, with a singer with a distinguishable voice. if you like a nickleback song here or there, you're fine. but if you're a nickleback fan, you're a dick.
now look at say john mayer - popular success, critical acclaim, writes his own songs. you shouldn't be ashamed to like his music.
the holy grail of music is to have an intellectually honest band that makes music with partly the same formula that drives commercial success, yet still contains enough experimentation that will keep the music snobs entertained. see pet sounds, janis joplin, and hendrix for examples.
Submitted by MyNameIsTim (user info) at 2008-02-22 17:34:19 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:47:14 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Talking about art is ALWAYS a good thing. People are just pussies because they don't know how to defend what they like. A lot of times it's because what they like is indefensible.
-----------------------
a) you're a dick.
b) this has been debated ad nauseum since about a thousand years ago. what makes a poem beautiful? what makes a painting beautiful? what makes a tune beautiful and/or *catchy?* nobody can define it. you just know it when you hear it.
Submitted by St_Jimmy (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:58:49 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I think the scary thing is how many people choose to define themselves by the products they consume.
"Tell me about yourself."
"Well, I like red bull, the Doors, Fallout boy, J-Lo. I'm really looking forward to the movie "Watchmen" after "V for Vendetta" kicked so much ass. Chick-Fil-A is the BEST food ever. I really wish they'd bring back Clear Pepsi. Go Bears Woo!"
So, if you must define yourself by products and you want to appear somehow different or unique, then you must choose obscure products and reject the more popular ones.
The end is on its way. You'll know it's here after you've become your Jimmy Chus and your IKEA furniture. Only a matter of time.
Submitted by hidden101 (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:42:46 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
hey, i love that Anal Cunt song "Hitler was a sensitive man".
Submitted by Sacrilicious (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:38:56 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I would respond to this but I'm too cool to bother.
Submitted by Susie_Derkins (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:23:35 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000002OX5/metasoul
Submitted by MyTeeOne (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:11:25 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
And the thing about "selling out," give me a fucking break, I don't know anyone who would turn down the chance to make an assload of money by doing what they love to do.
++++++++++=
I personally can't wait to sell out.
Submitted by netimportant (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:03:51 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I have a girlfriend who rejects almost anything that is "mainstream," and acts like everyone who likes that kind of stuff is dumber than she is. She doesn't realize that by trying to fit in with her group of anti-mainstream friends, she is also a conformist.
Submitted by DudeThatsBOSH (user info) at 2008-02-22 16:00:29 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
i used to argue about this kind of stuff in 6th grade
Submitted by netimportant (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:58:01 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
SOMETHING BEING POPULAR DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY MEAN IT SUCKS
----
Thank you.
I especially hate music nazis that act like they are too good to like anything that's not underground.
Sample conversation:
"I like Maroon 5."
"Are you serious?"
"What's wrong with Maroon 5?"
"MAROON 5 IS MANUFACTURED POP MUSIC SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED SO THAT EVERYONE WILL LIKE IT"
"So you don't like it because it's popular?"
"I do like that one song..."
And the thing about "selling out," give me a fucking break, I don't know anyone who would turn down the chance to make an assload of money by doing what they love to do.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:46:17 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
I listened to a lot of shitty music when I was younger. I still occasionally listen to some shitty music, mostly for nostalgia just like you said. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with that, but I think it's ridiculous to spend significant time and money on things that I can only appreciate because they are nostalgic and hilariously bad. There is so much great new music being made every week. I would rather spend my time hunting that stuff down.
Of the bands you mentioned, the only one I love is the Beatles. I think Nirvana was incredibly great, but just not really to my taste.
I think a few of the bands you listed are lousy and the rest I don't know enough about to make a judgment. Honestly, I would love to talk forever about why I think certain bands are shitty and certain bands are great. Internet forums are a pretty slow way of having that kind of discussion.
Some of my favorites, popular and unpopular, in no particular order:
The Rolling Stones, Buffalo Killers, The Black Keys, The Flamin' Groovies, Funkadelic, The Izzys, The Dexateens, Chuck Berry, Derek Trucks, Brian Jonestown Massacre, Jimi Hendrix
I'm going out of town right now so I won't respond to anything else on this post for a while.
Submitted by Susie_Derkins (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:30:33 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Hating the mainstream is so mainstream. Conformists. I liked NKOTB when they were underground, bitches.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:25:00 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
omg...I was 10 years old when LP released their first album. Corrupted by the demons of rock and roll at such a young age.....
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:23:38 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
I was 11 years old when Linkin Park released their first album. It appealed to me because it was one of the first album I bought, and my first taste of independent choice in music. I grew up liking them, and eventually outgrew them. I know there are bands that are more original and creative, but I have certain nostalgia for Linkin Park because they were some of my first experiences in music. Some people feel the same way about Blink 182, Green Day...I don't like either really, but I don't hate on the choice.
I discovered Nirvana and System of a Down when I was 14, and those became my favorite artists. When I was 16 I discovered Avenged Sevenfold, and I got into hip hop at 17. I'm almost 18 now, and I'd say my favorite artists are Opeth, Coheed and Cambria, Nevermore, Springsteen, Eminem, the Beatles, R.E.M., Nas, Wu-Tang, Avenged Sevenfold, and bunch that I can't think off the top of my head. I've grown out of listening to most pop records, but I can still appreciate mainstream work like Linkin Park and Avenged sevenfold.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:17:26 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:48:19 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
I can defend anything I honestly like, but I feel like I shouldn't have to. I don't think it's too much to accept that I like certain things that are culturally popular.
------------------
Why would you not WANT to defend what you like? I always want to talk about music and why I like it or why I don't like it. I want people to see what I like about music and I want to hear what other people like and why they like it. It's a shame how rare it is that people actually have lengthy conversations about music, movies, culture, et cetera. If you don't talk about music then you are limiting your enjoyment of it.
Popularity shouldn't even be a part of the argument. There are great bands that have become "mainstream" and have remained great because they still make honest music. I hate the mainstream because it's the wrong way to distribute music, and it leads to more brainwashed idiots and Nickelback fans.
Submitted by Orgasmatron (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:10:57 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Most people are fucking stupid.
Mainstream = popular.
Popular = most people.
Mainstream = fucking stupid.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 15:09:22 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:45:31 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
>>>>>>>>>>My fake quotes are paraphrases of I've heard people say. The Kanye West one is a true quote, one that startled me a bit when I heard that level of bias. I wasn't trying to prove that mainstream culture brings excellent art, because I can think of a lot better art by more obscure bands. I was just showing that not all mainstream is necessarily awful. What is bad though? You're entering into some philosophical shit here my boy...I'm very open minded about music, but I still like a lot of mainstream stuff.
Nothing you say here is in conflict with what I've said. I think your post was pointless, because disregarding mainstream music on the grounds that it is mainstream isn't that big of a deal, because infinitely more people are out there buying mainstream music simply because it's mainstream.
>>>>>>>>>Derivative and generic as they are, you're condemning a hell of a lot of people. I'm not saying the Rolling Stones are on the same creative level as Linkin Park, but they have fans that appreciate them just as much. My argument is not that mainstream is better, but that hatred of the mainstream is wrong.
If you're implying that people can enjoy Linkin Park in all of the ways that people can enjoy the Rolling Stones, then you're dead wrong. There are stupid people that like both bands and don't really distinguish between the two. But if you have a deep interest in good art, you can make an argument that the Rolling Stones made truly great art. You can not make an strong argument that Nickelback is anything but ear candy. Ultimately, you can appreciate the Rolling Stones on different levels.
>>>>>>>>>>Strong words there fella. I have a deep appreciation for good music that's a lot more than the pop that I mentioned in this post, but enumerating every single obscure band I like just to please elitists like you is on the same creative level as jerking off, only I don't even have a little mess to show for it. The mainstream is whatever the most amount of people like, there will always be a mainstream. Can it hurt you as a person to listen to it? No, as long as you have an open mind and honestly like what you listen to.
I didn't ask you to name bands you like. If you want to call me an elitist I don't really give a shit. I make an honest effort to find great music. I don't think most Americans do. If this makes me an elitist, then I would say that everyone should be an elitist when it comes to music. It's fucking great!
>>>>>>>>>>>>So in conclusion, you're saying most people are brainwashed idiots who disagree with you out of ignorance and spite, and that you intrinsically have better taste because you listen to more obscure music than most people. Thanks for proving the point of my post.
People are brainwashed idiots, yes. That's obvious. I never said anything about my own taste in music and how good it was. I can confidently say that I have a more discerning eye for good music than most Americans. That doesn't mean that what I like is provably the best music there is. It just means that I enjoy music in ways that most people don't. It's not because I'm special or great. It's because most people are brainwashed idiots. Brainwashed idiots determine the mainstream. So why pay attention to the mainstream? The fact that 99% of mainstream music is garbage is reason enough to use "mainstream" as an insult.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:53:26 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by HadToBeDone (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:50:24 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:28:18 EST (#)
Ranking: -2
I fucking HATE the mainstream and you should, too.
-----
There's something very sad about this statement.
----------
Yes there is. It makes me want to submit it to urban dictionary under Elitist or something.
Submitted by HadToBeDone (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:50:24 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:28:18 EST (#)
Ranking: -2
I fucking HATE the mainstream and you should, too.
-----
There's something very sad about this statement.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:48:44 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
In school I never learned much, too busy having a head rush, doing too much rush had my face flush like red blush.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:48:19 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:47:14 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:13:39 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Talking about it with some people is ok, like when they share your general tastes, or when they're open minded and you just like talking about things you like. But certain people can be complete idiots.
-----------------------------
Talking about art is ALWAYS a good thing. People are just pussies because they don't know how to defend what they like. A lot of times it's because what they like is indefensible.
------------
I can defend anything I honestly like, but I feel like I shouldn't have to. I don't think it's too much to accept that I like certain things that are culturally popular.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:47:14 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:13:39 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Talking about it with some people is ok, like when they share your general tastes, or when they're open minded and you just like talking about things you like. But certain people can be complete idiots.
-----------------------------
Talking about art is ALWAYS a good thing. People are just pussies because they don't know how to defend what they like. A lot of times it's because what they like is indefensible.
Art and Science are the only important things. They are our the only distinctly human tools that we have to combat our increasingly self-destructive nature. If you understand why art is important, you will understand why mainstream art is in shambles.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:45:31 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:28:18 EST (#)
Ranking: -2
There's nothing inherently wrong with being mainstream, and those fake quotes you came up with are arbitrary. There are very valid reasons why many people see huge problems in current popular culture. Just by mentioning the Beatles and the Rolling Stones you think you're proving that mainstream culture brings us the best art. That's so fucking stupid. There is a difference between good mainstream art and bad mainstream art. The vast majority of it is bad. You just might not know why it's bad.
>>>>>>>>>>My fake quotes are paraphrases of I've heard people say. The Kanye West one is a true quote, one that startled me a bit when I heard that level of bias. I wasn't trying to prove that mainstream culture brings excellent art, because I can think of a lot better art by more obscure bands. I was just showing that not all mainstream is necessarily awful. What is bad though? You're entering into some philosophical shit here my boy...I'm very open minded about music, but I still like a lot of mainstream stuff.
The fact that millions of people buy Nickelback or Linkin Park CDs is indicative of how completely fucked up we are. There is a difference between the Rolling Stones and Nickelback. You don't have to like the Rolling Stones, but there is no way you can argue that Nickelback's work is as honest, beautiful or meaningful as what the Rolling Stones did in their heyday. Do you honestly think that shitty bands become popular because of how good they are? Fuck no. The best, most honest music that is being made today is not coming close to the Top 40. There are exceptions to that rule, and occasionally a great band like the Rolling Stones makes it big. That's just happenstance. It used to happen a lot more frequently during the sixties. Anyway, in mainstream culture, there's always been a hundred Nickelbacks for every Rolling Stones.
>>>>>>>>>Derivative and generic as they are, you're condemning a hell of a lot of people. I'm not saying the Rolling Stones are on the same creative level as Linkin Park, but they have fans that appreciate them just as much. My argument is not that mainstream is better, but that hatred of the mainstream is wrong.
I fucking HATE the mainstream and you should, too. If a person with a deep appreciation for good music spends a few hours on Myspace looking for good music, they will find it. That same person will be endlessly frustrated trying to find good art in the endless sludge that is the "mainstream". You don't need the goddamn mainstream now that the Internet has made it so easy to find great stuff.
>>>>>>>>>>Strong words there fella. I have a deep appreciation for good music that's a lot more than the pop that I mentioned in this post, but enumerating every single obscure band I like just to please elitists like you is on the same creative level as jerking off, only I don't even have a little mess to show for it. The mainstream is whatever the most amount of people like, there will always be a mainstream. Can it hurt you as a person to listen to it? No, as long as you have an open mind and honestly like what you listen to.
Mainstream is not a genre. It's the lowest common denominator. It's what sells. Most people in this country have no concept of what makes good art, and it's those people that are determining what is mainstream. Fuck them.
>>>>>>>>>>>>So in conclusion, you're saying most people are brainwashed idiots who disagree with you out of ignorance and spite, and that you intrinsically have better taste because you listen to more obscure music than most people. Thanks for proving the point of my post.
Submitted by Ltap (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:42:38 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
If something is "mainstream", people automatically don't like it. Since nobility is gone and riches don't count for much anymore (that is, you are better, but not special because of all the other rich people), people prefer something they feel is more exclusive.
Submitted by forensicgirl3 (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:34:08 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I likes to hear me sum Duellin' Banjos!
WEEEEEEEEHAWWWWWWW!
Submitted by wookie (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:28:50 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
There's nothing wrong with "mainstream" in and of itself. It's just that what's "mainstream" is often designed to appeal to the lowest common denominator and, unfortunately, the lowest common denominator is usually pretty god-damn low.
Submitted by PepsiCoke (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:28:18 EST (#)
Ranking: -2
There's nothing inherently wrong with being mainstream, and those fake quotes you came up with are arbitrary. There are very valid reasons why many people see huge problems in current popular culture. Just by mentioning the Beatles and the Rolling Stones you think you're proving that mainstream culture brings us the best art. That's so fucking stupid. There is a difference between good mainstream art and bad mainstream art. The vast majority of it is bad. You just might not know why it's bad.
The fact that millions of people buy Nickelback or Linkin Park CDs is indicative of how completely fucked up we are. There is a difference between the Rolling Stones and Nickelback. You don't have to like the Rolling Stones, but there is no way you can argue that Nickelback's work is as honest, beautiful or meaningful as what the Rolling Stones did in their heyday. Do you honestly think that shitty bands become popular because of how good they are? Fuck no. The best, most honest music that is being made today is not coming close to the Top 40. There are exceptions to that rule, and occasionally a great band like the Rolling Stones makes it big. That's just happenstance. It used to happen a lot more frequently during the sixties. Anyway, in mainstream culture, there's always been a hundred Nickelbacks for every Rolling Stones.
I fucking HATE the mainstream and you should, too. If a person with a deep appreciation for good music spends a few hours on Myspace looking for good music, they will find it. That same person will be endlessly frustrated trying to find good art in the endless sludge that is the "mainstream". You don't need the goddamn mainstream now that the Internet has made it so easy to find great stuff.
Mainstream is not a genre. It's the lowest common denominator. It's what sells. Most people in this country have no concept of what makes good art, and it's those people that are determining what is mainstream. Fuck them.
Submitted by HadToBeDone (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:27:33 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by MyTeeOne (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:10:15 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Someone below brought up Metallica for instance. Master of Puppets is a heavy metal albumn. Load is not.
Going mainstream usually - not always - means that they sacrifice the art for money. The band makes decisions about the songs/albumn to please the masses (and therefore sell more albumns) instead of staying true to their style/art.
-----
Refusing to change because it will be different from everything else you've done is the pinnacle of stupid.
Submitted by HotWillie (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:17:53 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
exactly what is interesting about this post?
Submitted by MyTeeOne (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:10:15 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I agree 100 % with what you are saying here. Just for the sake of conversation...
I think the problem with "mainstream" in the case of music (and it transfers over to other art) is the effect it has on the art itself. Someone below brought up Metallica for instance. Master of Puppets is a heavy metal albumn. Load is not.
Going mainstream usually - not always - means that they sacrifice the art for money. The band makes decisions about the songs/albumn to please the masses (and therefore sell more albumns) instead of staying true to their style/art. When the bands decisions are about pleasing the masses the theory is that they are no longer producing the same quality of music.
So, people get pissed off when their favorite band (that they could always identify with) moves on without them.
Submitted by Fungah (user info) at 2008-02-22 14:00:18 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I like Ella Fitzgerald.
Submitted by rob_berg (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:57:13 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
Can't type today.
Is that mainstream?
Submitted by rob_berg (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:56:37 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
YOU LEAVE MAH MOMMA OUTTA THIS.
And I'll leave THIS outta yours.
Of course that joke works better when you can see my grab my package and make my serious "IMMA GUNNA FUCK YOOS face - but now what you have the visual of me grabbing my junk solidly in your head - my work here is done.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:53:04 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by rob_berg (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:49:32 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
This post is so mainstream.
-----
so is yo momma.
Submitted by rob_berg (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:49:32 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
This post is so mainstream.
Submitted by CaptainThorns (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:48:56 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by Director (user info) at 2008-02-22 12:39:07 CST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by monkeyswithguns (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:33:00 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Smurfs were definately mainstream, and I loved em. GI Joe was pretty cool too. As for today's musical scene, I wouldn't know, because I'm older than 18, and have better things to do than "debate" with "friends" about "music" and the associated "scene", let alone the "fashions" accompanying it.
To put it short, I'm becoming a curmudgeon and am more interested in trying to avoid colon cancer.
================
Solidarity, brother.
In fact, I'm so goddamned old that I'm now leaving to go to the store to pick up a gallon of skim milk and some snacks for my ex-wife.
How goddamned sad is that?
=============================
Just wait until SHE'S making YOU pick up and clean her used towel from the bed after teh sexxors. THAT'S when you have achieved a new pinnacle of sad.
Submitted by Socialist_Joe (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:48:02 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
as in there is an element more than just bitches drugs money so on and so forth in his music
Submitted by Socialist_Joe (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:45:54 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
who said i dont like nas
nas is only semi-gangsta
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:41:50 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Socialist_Joe (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:40:29 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
now dont get it twisted im not saying all things mainstream are bad
and im not saying that once you sell out you become bad
but for the most part if the masses like it i dont
you could try to tell me that gangsta rap was good all day
curse me but i hate the red hot chile peppers
have you watched a movie lately, pure garbage
popped on the radio, that shit makes me wanna kill
i dunno
maybe im just a hater
but music sounds better when your not contractualy obligated to make 6 cds a year
------
bro ur a hater
if you dis my man nas u gonna get gunned up and clapped quick
dipset
don't bring that shyt up in here
Submitted by Socialist_Joe (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:40:29 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
now dont get it twisted im not saying all things mainstream are bad
and im not saying that once you sell out you become bad
but for the most part if the masses like it i dont
you could try to tell me that gangsta rap was good all day
curse me but i hate the red hot chile peppers
have you watched a movie lately, pure garbage
popped on the radio, that shit makes me wanna kill
i dunno
maybe im just a hater
but music sounds better when your not contractualy obligated to make 6 cds a year
Submitted by Director (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:39:07 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by monkeyswithguns (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:33:00 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Smurfs were definately mainstream, and I loved em. GI Joe was pretty cool too. As for today's musical scene, I wouldn't know, because I'm older than 18, and have better things to do than "debate" with "friends" about "music" and the associated "scene", let alone the "fashions" accompanying it.
To put it short, I'm becoming a curmudgeon and am more interested in trying to avoid colon cancer.
================
Solidarity, brother.
In fact, I'm so goddamned old that I'm now leaving to go to the store to pick up a gallon of skim milk and some snacks for my ex-wife.
How goddamned sad is that?
Submitted by The_taste_of_Monkeys (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:37:15 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Hey, I listen to Country and Western, that makes me about as cool as a very warm thing. And not just the really depressing Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson stuff, Im talking Kenny Rogers here.
Just listen to whatever the hell you want.
Submitted by corn_nugget (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:34:38 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
A few years ago I got that Posh Spice haircut. But now that it's mainstream I won't get it again!!!!!!
Same thing?
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:34:12 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
lol...they booed at Bob Dylan, of all people? For picking up an electric guitar?
*dies*
Submitted by monkeyswithguns (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:33:00 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Smurfs were definately mainstream, and I loved em. GI Joe was pretty cool too. As for today's musical scene, I wouldn't know, because I'm older than 18, and have better things to do than "debate" with "friends" about "music" and the associated "scene", let alone the "fashions" accompanying it.
To put it short, I'm becoming a curmudgeon and am more interested in trying to avoid colon cancer.
Submitted by Doodles (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:31:46 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
It's the current culture that this generation was raised in. Everyone is a winner, everyone is special etc. If you could recall back to the late 90s everyone loved N-Sync and 98 degrees, because we were told they were good because they were mainstream. Then internet file sharing happened and we could find music we really enjoyed, rather than music we liked because we were supposed to. This effectively turned people off of mainstream media. This is not to say that this is the case with everyone as kids under 13-14 years old almost all think Hannah Montana is musical version of Jesus, the same thing that our generation thought about Brittany Spears. What I'm trying to say is that younger children tend to all be in the mainstream teens through mid 20s tend to shun the mainstream and adults tend to have decided what they do and don't like whether it is mainstream or not.
Submitted by Director (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:29:16 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
People have been saying that since forever. When I was a teenager in the 80's, people wouldn't listen to certain kinds of music because it was too "mainstream."
And when Metallica became "mainstream" in the 90's after years of being an underground band, they lost a lot of their early fan base because they were too "mainstream."
When Bob Dylan switched from acoustic to electric guitar in the late 60's, his folk fan base booed him offstage because he had gone "mainstream."
It's not just young people. It's all people and their misguided (pathetic) attempts to be "different."
Everybody is the same, all over the goddamned fucking globe.
It's shit like this that makes me hate the entire human race.
Submitted by pen_name (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:28:54 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
hitler has big feet
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:27:30 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:25:35 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I don't know, I don't watch that Celebrity Apprentice crap, it's too mainstream
--------
;(
It's trace adkins anyway. He's quite a fella.
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:25:35 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I don't know, I don't watch that Celebrity Apprentice crap, it's too mainstream
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:22:05 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Is Randy Travis the cowboy on celebrity Apprentice? If so, I also <3 him and his music videos.
My dad discovered the country music video channel, and now it plays nonstop in my house.
Submitted by forensicgirl3 (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:21:32 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Yes, Hot Damn is a god awful, sweet, cinnamon liqour.
We thought we were such hot shit because we were drinking something called Hot Damn. With our acid washed jeans and heavily sprayed hair.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:21:17 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
@ Jeanneee
The Dethalbum was hardcore...I'm sad that it didn't get a grammy.
@ forensicgirl3
Vintersorg and Finntroll are nice. I prefer lyrics in English, as Vintersorg sometimes has, but I understand that it's not their native language, w/e.
@ Mudwhistle
You listen to mad females...I barely have any women artists on my iPod.
Submitted by MudWhistle (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:20:46 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
I own no less that 30 Rap CD's to included Naughty by nature, silk, Jodeci, r. Kelly, Lords of the Underground, Digital Underground, House of Pain, The first Kid Rock cd and many others.
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:20:41 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I <3 Randy Travis
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:19:11 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
@ forensicgirl3
haha...I'm guessing Hot Damn is a cheap kind alcohol? nice.
Funny thing is a lot of the "jockier" types in my school are starting to like the whole 80s glam rock scene again. I was rolling in the car with a wrestler friend of mine and he had burned a CD with Pour Some Sugar On Me, every Rose Has a Thorn, and a bunch of other glam metal on it, from like 10 years before he was born. I don't even know how he discovered it...
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:19:03 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
my favorite band is Dethklok
Submitted by forensicgirl3 (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:18:56 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I like Korpiklaani.
Something about long haired Nordic men playing metal/folk.
Submitted by MudWhistle (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:18:40 EST (#)
Ranking: 1
since we're confessing
I listen to Rilo Kiley, allison Krauss, sara mcglaughlin and tracy chapman
Submitted by lostnphound (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:17:55 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
I totally agree.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:17:02 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
I HAVE A CONFESSION TO MAKE
I like Sugar We're Going Down by Fall Out Boy.
And also Baby One More Time...and a few Backstreet Boys tracks. The new Miley Cyrus single makes me wither in delight. I think Linkin Park is a great band live, even if a little generic. Rihanna is my #1 guilty pleasure though.
Then again I like Scandinavian folk metal as well, so what the fuck do I know?
Submitted by forensicgirl3 (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:16:08 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
Here is one part of my theory about this.
Ok, you know the Simpsons character Comic Book Guy? Which incidently we have a real life CBG on Uber, but for right now, that's beside the point.
Anyway, people who sneer at mainstream are only doing so in an effort to make themselves appear to the be ultimate authority on whatever it is they're sneering at.
Kind of like CBG. You notice that he hates almost everything. The only time he likes something is when other fat jerk nerds just like him are into it as well.
So with that, I leave you with the statement that sometimes I really miss 80's glam cock rock. It was fun. Who cares that it was mainstream. It was fun to listen to while you got fucked up on Hot Damn in your girlfriend's family's Rec room.
And we all thought that Sebastian Bach had a nice ass.
Then.
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:15:05 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
People desperately want to believe that their taste in music, movies, clothing, etc. makes them somehow superior. Music snobs are pretty pathetic if you ask me. It's just music.
Submitted by MudWhistle (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:14:37 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
heh...I listen to bands that aren't even bands yet.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:13:39 EST (#)
Ranking: 0
Talking about it with some people is ok, like when they share your general tastes, or when they're open minded and you just like talking about things you like. But certain people can be complete idiots.
Submitted by Falafel (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:13:04 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
"There is a level of cowardice lower than that of the conformist: the fashionable non-conformist."
-Ayn Rand
Submitted by Linus (user info) at 2008-02-22 13:11:59 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
You've pretty summed up the reason I don't talk to people about music in the last paragraph there.