Critique
Interesting Writing Critique
Julie VW
SMU
Communications for the Professional AA620
October 8, 2002
Jim Derogatis, of the Chicago Sun Times, cites last weeks $143 million settlement, as evidence that "The music industry is broken." In an agitated tone, Derogatis blames high CD prices on wasteful promotions. He cites the estimated $150 million used in "pay for play scams" with radio stations, and suggests the practice be stopped with savings passed onto consumers. Derogatis believes the music industry ought to respect consumers and stop attacking music swapping technology if it will survive.
Derogatis writes as a disgruntled consumer. I can relate to his frustration and find the piece interesting because of my own unhappiness with the music industry. Compact discs cost too much, and record companies have dangerous legislation proposed in congress. I appreciate Derogatis's insights, but find his logic and suggestions flawed.
Derogatis fails to recognize that every brand, from every business, in every industry, expects consumers to pay for advertising. Toilet paper, breakfast cereal, and running shoes cost more because Proctor and Gamble, General Mills, and Nike choose to plug their products on television. In a capitalist system, companies promote products. Columbia records can promote an artists just like Nabisco advertises Oreo Cookies.
Courtney Love's lawsuit against Universal Music Groups provides the sole example of industry disrespect for consumers and artists. With only one example, and no specific suggestions on how the industry might demonstrate respect to consumers, I find his second point weak and lacking support.
Countless surveys, statistics, and reports suggest that music-trading encourages people to listen to new music and helps the music industry. Derogatis references the studies and concludes "digital technology is no more of a threat to artists or the industry than cassette tapes were in the early ‘80's."
Derogatis believes if the recording industry followed his three pieces of advice, "We'd all be singing a happier song - - and maybe it would even be good for business." While his suggestions may soothe the collective psyche of unhappy consumers, I don't think Derogatis's suggestions could be "good for business." .
Reference
Derogatis, Jim. (2002). Music industry takes heavy fire. [Electronic version]. Chicago Sun- Times, October 2, 2002. Retrieved October 5, 2002 from http://www.suntimes.com/output/entertainment/cst-ftr-dero02.html
