The last time I made a post like this, the new year had just begun. I was thankful for 2019 coming to a close and hopeful for 2020 challenges and adventures. Well, I’m not so sure about the part about adventures but there have certainly been quite a few challenges. Okay, A LOT of challenges. But I guess you really don’t need me to recap the barrage of train wrecks and civil unrest across the world. You could probably just look out your nearest window right? But I’m not writing this article to be a downer. I don’t want to write something like that and you probably don’t want to read that.
Seeing 50Thirdand3rd is a music publication, you’re most likely hear to read about music or such. I can do that!
we’ve been locked down for quite a few months so you’d think we’d be listening to all sorts of new music! Unfortunately, many artists have decided to slow down the release of new music due to the inability to get out on the road to promote it. That’s completely understandable from a business perspective but at the same time, quite depressing. The artists who have released new music have missed out on important hype. Plus between a deadly virus and standing up to injustice, many artist feel weird about promoting their art. Also understandable.
But where does that leave the listener? We could take the opportunity to check out some of the music that’s fallen under the radar over the past few years! Maybe it’s time to check out the catalog of an artist your friends have been telling you about? Or maybe you just don’t feel like doing the homework? I totally get that too.
All of this seems just a little negative though, doesn’t it?
There’s no denying the entertainment industry has changed over the past few months. Just how many viral videos of Hollywood’s finest singing (badly) to a schmaltzy ballad to encourage togetherness? Worse yet, what about those acoustic covers of pop classics? I’m all about morale boosting but it would not hurt my feelings to see this fad fade away into obscurity!
In my new year’s resolution piece, I talked a big game about reaching out to more indie labels for new music and going to more shows. Of course, live music is out of the question, but I have been keeping in touch with many friends who run some of my favorite labels. For the most part, they’re in the same boat as the artists. They want to stay afloat by pushing new records but also weighing out their options before taking the risk.
Okay, so I haven’t painted a very positive picture yet. Have I?
I don’t have all the answers about COVID19 or what people can do to ease the tension between cops and citizens. I mean, wear a mask, wash your hands, and stay home is a pretty decent way to start when dealing with the Corona Virus. And I’m willing to bet if law enforcement were reminded their job is to lead by example and not by fear, people would feel a little less high strung! But that’s all surface, right? Basic decent human behavior. Good luck with that!
But what I can tell you is, despite what’s going on in the world, your state, or street, we’re resilient creatures. We’ll get through this ugly time in history. Despite your views on politics, your color, gender, or health, we’re all human beings. Deep down we know what’s right and wrong. We know when we’re being belligerent, scared, rude, positive, or negative.
But we’re all tired. We’ve been through a lot. We need to rest our minds, bodies, and spirits.
Don’t worry, I’m not gonna go all new age on you! But regardless of which battle you’re fighting, you need to take a break at some point! Perhaps if you turn off the news, social media, or phone, and just press play on a good record you can recharge? I’m well aware revolutions wait for no one, but maybe the 3 minutes of your favorite song will be enough to revitalize the fight?
I’m not the smartest kid in the class but I know that even a stopped clock is right twice a day or whatever. As the second part of 2020 begins, I’m hopeful it’s better than the first part. Practice good social distancing, be an ally when you can. If you see something, say something. Stay humble and learn accountability. And start by listening to your favorite song…