In-Depth Notes on the Music Industry of the 1970s and 1980s

Overview of the 1970s Music Landscape

  • Fragmentation of Styles: Music historians describe the 1970s as a directionless era due to diverse genres targeting different demographics.
  • "Me Decade": The term highlights the self-centered themes present in disco music and singer-songwriter genres.
  • Economic Turmoil: The 70s were characterized by high inflation, unemployment, and an oil embargo, leading to significant economic hardship.
    • Stock Market drop of 50%.
    • New York City's bankruptcy and federal government neglect.

Cultural Shifts and Important Events

  • John Lennon Assassination (1980):
    • Many perceived it as an end of an era in rock music; Lennon was a nostalgic figure for fans too.
    • His death marked a cultural transformation in music from the 70s to the 80s.

Political Changes Affecting Music Industry

  • Ronald Reagan's Presidency (1981):
    • Introduction of supply-side economics and deregulation in multiple industries, notably television.
  • MTV's Launch (1981):
    • Warner Cable invested heavily to create MTV, which quickly gained widespread viewership among youth.
    • Subscriptions jumped from 2.5 million to 17 million in two years.

The Role of MTV in Music Promotion

  • Cult of Music Videos:
    • MTV's creation changed music consumption, with music videos likened to "Gesamtkunstwerk"—a total work of art.
    • Dominance of British programming and white artists initially; first video was "Video Killed the Radio Star."
  • Second British Invasion: Involved groups like Duran Duran, Eurythmics, and Culture Club.
  • Racial Issues:
    • MTV faced accusations of racism due to limited airplay for black artists, with Michael Jackson changing the narrative.

Michael Jackson's Impact

  • "Thriller" Album (1982):
    • Ground-breaking with seven hits including "Billie Jean" and "Beat It."
    • Used high production value for music videos, especially with a budget of $300,000 for "Thriller."
  • Genre Crossovers: Jackson combined various styles, including pop and heavy metal.
  • Cultural Phenomenon: Enhanced the potential of music videos as short films, establishing Jackson as a dominant figure on MTV.

Other Influential Artists

  • Madonna:
    • Redefined female pop stardom; used sexuality and choreography to maintain control over her image. Hits like "Material Girl" and "Like a Virgin" showcased her artistic range.
  • Bruce Springsteen:
    • Not traditionally seen as an MTV artist but achieved success with "Dancing in the Dark"; his authenticity resonated with audiences.
    • "Born in the USA" song became a controversial campaign song for both Reagan and Mondale.
  • Prince:
    • Prolific artist known for his talent, producing work from his own studio and blending various genres in albums like "Purple Rain."

Humanitarian Efforts in the Music Industry

  • Star-Studded Concerts:
    • The trend accelerated in the 1980s with events like the Concert for Bangladesh (1971) and initiatives by Bob Geldof in the 1980s.
  • We Are the World and USA for Africa:
    • Spearheaded by Michael Jackson; attempts to raise funds for humanitarian causes with significant participation by prominent artists.
    • Despite mixed critical reception, raised awareness and donations significantly.
  • Live Aid (1985):
    • Largest televised concert event, featuring iconic performances; raised approximately $100 million.
    • Critics noted it helped cement commercial ties between artists and humanitarian causes.

Continuing Legacy

  • Ongoing Benefit Concerts:
    • Inclusion of causes over decades, from Nelson Mandela's benefit to Hurricane Katrina relief; trend marks enduring commitment of the music industry to humanitarian efforts.