Would 80s Soft Rock or Adult Contemporary Make It Today?
Adam Ruins Everything delves into the complexities of music and its commercial implications in one of its episodes. The show explores how the role of a musician has changed, emphasizing that being a musician is now predominantly about endorsements and appearances rather than just making music. This raises a fascinating question: Can an 80s soft rock or adult contemporary artist gain enough popularity today to make their earnings through endorsements and appearances worth the investment in terms of cost of living?
Foregoing specific data and industry insights that I may lack, I am driven by curiosity and a hint that someone sought my input on this matter. Hence, I must explore and attempt to answer. Let's dive into some relevant details to provide a comprehensive analysis.
80s Soft Rock and Adult Contemporary: A Comparative Study
My inquiry to an AI assistant shed light on the distinctions between 80s soft rock and adult contemporary. Soft rock emerged in the late 1960s and 1970s, characterized by its mellow and melodic sound. By the 1980s, notable artists like Phil Collins, Air Supply, and Christopher Cross brought this genre to the forefront. On the other hand, adult contemporary is a broader genre that includes soft rock along with elements of pop and easy listening, targeting a more mature audience. Key artists in this category include Lionel Richie, Whitney Houston, and Michael Bolton.
Upon further investigation, it was evident that when people refer to "80s soft rock artists," they generally denote musicians who were active during the 1980s, such as Phil Collins, Air Supply, and Christopher Cross. Contemporary artists who emulate the 1980s soft rock sound are also recognized, but they are not classified under the 80s soft rock category. This distinction highlights the evolution of these genres over time.
The Current Music Industry Landscape
Given the current state of the music industry, achieving significant success through a record deal alone is increasingly rare. Even top-tier artists like John Mayer, Norah Jones, Ed Sheeran, James Bay, and Vance Joy can no longer rely solely on their record deals for financial stability. The reasons for this shift are multifaceted and include changing consumer preferences, the rise of streaming platforms, and the demands of modern marketing strategies.
The role of endorsements and appearances has become more prominent. These opportunities can provide additional income for musicians but also come with the challenge of maintaining a diverse portfolio. Artists must now develop skills in brand marketing, live performances, and potentially even venture into other media like film and television to sustain their careers. Thus, the question of whether 80s soft rock or adult contemporary artists can make it today is not just about the quality of their music but also about their adaptability to the evolving industry landscape.
Conclusion: Adapting to Contemporary Challenges
The modern music industry is vastly different from that of the 1980s. While 80s soft rock and adult contemporary artists can still achieve a degree of success, maintaining a sustainable career often requires a multifaceted approach. Focus on developing versatility, capitalizing on endorsements and performances, and embracing the digital age are crucial elements that contemporary musicians need to consider.
As for the specific question of whether 80s soft rock or adult contemporary would make it today, it depends on various factors including the artist's adaptability, marketing strategies, and overall presence in the contemporary market. While the sounds from the 1980s may resonate with some audiences, it is essential to understand and engage with the contemporary music landscape to ensure long-term success.