Does music still have passion?

When I was growing up, music was my life. I think I'm probably in the majority with that statement, but as time moves forward, my relationship with music has changed. I still love the songs I grew up with, the music from high school, and the dance music I associate with my clubbing days, but has anything captured me lately? Am I just getting old, or has the music industry changed?

I notice a common trend for musicians to take a song from 10, 20, or even 30 years ago and make it their own. I'm disappointed when strong songs, which the writer put their heart into, are watered down. It's almost as if all the passion is sucked out of the music, and it just falls flat. I don't want to get into any specific examples, but I'm noticing it more and more. I can't think of the last time I said, "Wow, that's a great remake of that song!" Usually, I'm too busy cringing.

Again, it could be because I'm too old, or maybe bland music reflects our times. Then again, maybe, it's just the music I'm exposed to that's that seems mind-numbing and generic. After all, record labels are going to push what they think they can make money on; they don't particularly care about originality or even talent anymore. And that's not to say there isn't talent out there, but it almost feels like the music that gets the most attention seems to fall flat. 

And again, what do I know? I always followed music trends and what was popular, but I've lost interest in recent years. Most of the music I was hearing wasn't capturing my attention. It seems to have no soul. Then again, maybe I need more exposure to independent music. If you're an indie musician (or know one) who writes music with soul, passion, and with a message, please feel free to post the link below. We need to get this music out. 

I see your true colors shining through

When a family member was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago, someone commented to my mother that this would be when she'd recognize her true friends. In reality, a crisis is when those who are the real deal come to support you. On the flip side, it's also when the less committed friends run for the hills. The truth is that a crisis shows you people's true colors, and it's not always flattering shades.

So what happens when there's a worldwide pandemic? Do people support each other? Do they show compassion and understanding? Remember in early 2020 when we heard the phrase 'we're all in this together' thrown around casually? (Although admittedly, it always made me roll my eyes) Isn't it interesting that we never hear it anymore? Why is that? 

Sadly, the last two years have exposed a great deal about human nature. Even more sadly, none of it surprises me. 

The early days of 2020 are when I first decided that this pandemic would show people's true colors, and I was proven right again and again. I saw judgmental people grow very vocal and aggressive in their opinions, while the pretentious glided by with a more intense sense of superiority and self-righteousness. And ignorance went to a whole new level.

    

Not to suggest it's all negative. It was at this time where I discovered who my tribe was and wasn't. Some people are slowly floating out of my life, while others are making a triumphant return. I've reconnected with some amazing people that I had lost touch with and made some new friends. Those relationships are stronger than they ever were before; these are the people who will continue to be in my life. I would do whatever I can, to help and support my tribe.

It's been interesting. I find it fascinating how many are quick to attack others now. Don't assume everybody should or does agree with you and don't assume those who have a different opinion are wrong. Politicians and even celebrities have even jumped in, trying to pit people against one another. Although, I can't understand why anyone would consider either to be a wise role model. 

I'm not sure where empathy, kindness, and decency went, but I'm sad to see them go. I fear that when people discover where they lacked, it might be too late to mend the broken fences.