GWSS Blog Post #4

Accessibility and maintaining a connection to our roots and history are especially important during this time and age. When recognizing our intersectionalities and heritage we see how we have developed as an individual in society. In the music industry, it often is very difficult to realize how much culture has an influence on multiple types of genres. Within "Commercial Stars and Artivistas" of American Sabor: Latinos and Latinas in US Popular Music”, they constantly express the importance of the participation in various genres. Success in the music industry is often very difficult to obtain. Celebrities like Jenifer Lopez or even Shakira have had a rise to fame. However, as expressed by the chapter fame comes with various costs. These Latin artists have a very large fan base, however, “They rarely play in their fan’s home communities, nor do they spend time with their fans off stage. They are faces of the corporate culture that values spectacle over participation.” (Marisol Berros-Miranda) That being said it is very important to understand the deep meaning behind the music industry. There are those that are activists within their art and go against the norm of the music industry. These are expressed as “artivistas”. Finding ways to support local artists that are bringing culture to life and are continually using music as a method of recognition. Additionally, there is a lack of accessibility for those that want to share their art with the world. Often marginalized communities are never given the credit they deserve, and nor do they have the resources or privilege that many other individuals have. Especially in this time, we need to change this so that culture is shared rather than stolen for others' gain. It is about learning from each other’s histories and growing from them.

Two songs: "Redemption Song" Bob Marley https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KkWamnD3sE
                   "The Power of Equality" Red Hot Chili Peppers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JT6UCvR7kgU