The Dangers of Mandatory Music: A Journey Through Sound
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Chapter 1 The Soundtrack of Our Travels
During a memorable summer, my partner and I embarked on a 47-day adventure, traversing 12 cities across eight countries. We encountered a plethora of cultures, cuisines, and sights, yet the background music remained disappointingly familiar.
As we moved through various restaurants, shops, and public spaces, it became clear that at least 90% of the music played was an uninspired mix of "Classic 90s" hits and the current corporate pop that claims to be "dance music." From Italy to Lithuania, the predominant sound was Anglo-American pop. In Poland, we found a single restaurant featuring Polish tunes, a bar in Latvia that offered hard rock, and a couple of establishments that played classical music. However, the overwhelming majority subjected patrons to a monotonous playlist reminiscent of "Songs from Your Childhood You Never Wanted to Hear Again." I vaguely recall one venue playing "Most Annoying Songs of the 1970s," but the details escape me.
The first video, "Working Girl Force Fed: A Must-Listen Song By The Band," dives into the phenomenon of music that feels imposed rather than chosen.
Chapter 2 The Repetition of 'Safe' Music
During our journey, we encountered the same tracks night after night, irrespective of the restaurant's cuisine. For instance, we heard Oasis's "Champagne Supernova" in at least six different cities. This lack of originality was disheartening. While the old Muzak tunes have faded, they've been supplanted by a new wave of equally uninspiring soundtracks, now branded as "Mood Media Corporation."
Our earlier travels throughout the U.S. and Canada were no different. Over 84 days, we visited 41 states and two provinces, yet the music playlists remained limited—either country from the Deep South or mainstream pop. We found ourselves repeatedly listening to the same songs, a frustrating experience for any music enthusiast.
As a philosopher and aficionado of music, I find it troubling that businesses impose their music selections on us. While music can undoubtedly enhance relaxation and enjoyment, forcing it upon others is ethically questionable. As the owner of WorldFusionRadio.com, I love to share my favorite tracks, but I recognize that not everyone will appreciate my choices.
The second video, "The Force Feed - The Evil Within Aims to Terrify," examines the implications of music that feels like an obligation rather than a choice.
Section 2.1 The Ethical Dilemma of Public Music
Why is it acceptable for businesses to compel us to listen to their music? We have regulations against secondhand smoke in restaurants—shouldn't the same principle apply to "secondhand music"? Who decided that everyone enjoys "Classic 90s"?
Interestingly, I've observed a consistent pattern: the music from 20-30 years ago, often labeled as "Classic" by the radio industry, is now the preferred choice in public spaces. During a three-month road trip across the U.S. in 2009, we were bombarded with Anglo-American tunes from the 70s and 80s. Fast forward fifteen years, and it's now the 90s hits taking over. This trend suggests that the corporate music industry assumes individuals aged 35-54 only want to hear the songs that defined their high school years, resulting in a continuous loop of nostalgia.
Subsection 2.1.1 The Power of Personal Choice
Certainly, some people enjoy reliving the same 40 songs from their youth. That's what smartphones are for—curating personal playlists. However, it's perplexing why the assumption persists that everyone should enjoy the same public tunes every day. Despite corporate media's relentless efforts to homogenize tastes, individuals are diverse.
Though my musical preferences may lean toward the unconventional, I know I'm not alone in resisting the imposition of mainstream music. Whether it's through Mood Media, SiriusXM, or local radio stations, the forced exposure should be reconsidered. I've noticed critics of younger generations for "tuning out" with headphones, but it seems clear why they do so: they prefer their music, not the overly familiar background noise. When I see someone with headphones on, I perceive someone taking charge of their auditory environment, rejecting the imposed soundscape.
Section 2.2 The Treasure Trove of Music
The prevalence of this uninspired, safe music is especially disheartening given the wealth of incredible music available. Public spaces should serve as platforms for discovering new sounds rather than recycling the same outdated tracks. The lack of curiosity and willingness to explore diverse musical selections is indeed regrettable.