Today’s class on various topics were very thought-provoking and eye-opening. We discussed whether a song is popular because it’s good or because it is overplayed because of a powerful market that controls what we listen to. I think we’re led to believe it must be popular because it’s “requested” a lot when really it just temporarily claims the radio stations and is a money maker because it’s heavily marketable. I realize that I’ve fallen for the trap time and time again without awareness. Usually, when I hear a top 40 song the first time, I’m less than impressed and never want to hear it again. However, it’ll find its way back to me and eventually I’ll be hooked, shamefully jamming to it and making myself feel a little better by calling it a guilty pleasure. I think this is true for a lot of songs, not just annoying top 40 hits. Even songs you just barely take a liking to, if you continue to listen to it, your appreciation for it increases the next few times you listen. I liked that it came up how people like certain songs because they’re evocative, possibly reminding you of a memory or something positive. I think it’s pretty complex, why we like a song or music itself, and its evocative power is part of that. It can make you feel and think a certain way and we really like that. Lastly, I won’t give anyone who pirates music or movies a hard time. I personally don’t do it, at least not anymore with the loss of LimeWire, and frankly the process of pirating movies seems too difficult for me. However, when you think about the artist who is deserving of money for their art, you can’t help but feel sympathetic towards them. I do feel like an artist who genuinely enjoys making art for the sake of it and isn’t out for money won’t put down anyone for listening to their music illegally because at least they’re listening to it. I’d be content that I have a fanbase no matter how my music is accessed but obviously if you’re not already a big star like Taylor Swift, it might affect your wealth greatly. People will most often choose convenience, though.