‘And those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music.’
~ Friedrich Nietzsche
Whilst Nietzsche’s point transcends the musical realm, referring to the cruel misperceptions of those who divert from the mainstream, it retains a high degree of pertinence to contemporary society and in particular its music culture. Music is no longer solely an artistic source from which to engage in a multitude of emotions. Music, especially who and what you listen to, has become a fashion accessory – a means by which to critique and judge. Why is this the case? Why should, if at all, it be normalised?
Speaking from experience, music is a form of expression. It always has and will be. Music has a power; a power to sensitise, unify, uplift, reflect, embolden. Although not tangible, music has an ability to suffuse the soul and create a whole-body experience. It is only more recently that music has been used as a prop for judgement or criticism. It seems that society has created a new hierarchy, one which aims to umpire based on what music or artists you listen to.
A prime example is the denunciation of mainstream pop. Once a defining feature of culture with hits such as ‘Call Me Maybe’, ‘Royals’ or ‘Poker Face’, chart-topping pop songs no longer represent taste but mediocracy and ‘cringe’. Why such a shift? These songs were my childhood and evoke a sense of nostalgia should I ever play them. However, the problem also applies to today’s pop world. Whilst most may seemingly appreciate a good groove to Dua Lipa, when asked for music recommendations it’s a game of ‘how obscure.’ How well can I impress you with my knowledge of an unknown band from twenty years ago?
Don’t misinterpret: the more diverse the better, as Nietzsche highlights. You should never be afraid to divert from the mainstream. Or don’t! The point is that it shouldn’t matter. Follow what and who you love because you genuinely do, not because you’re trying to impress, or worse, hide shame.
Music is extremely personal and as unique as the body’s DNA. For me, this involves an unhinged concoction of jazz, pop, 80s, blues and some indie from time to time. It helps us through difficulties and heightens the most precious and jovial of moments. Music helps to represent culture and community. It ultimately provides expression to the expressionless. It is not, and should never be, a medium for engendering embarrassment or demise.
So the next time you put your headphones on and allow those chords of Justin Bieber’s ‘Confident’ to put a pep in your step (all jokes aside), don’t question whether its right or wrong: that is a socio-cultural fallacy. There is only you, the way music makes you feel and the love you feel for it.
“Music infinity” by opensourceway is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.