The emergence of new genres in music has been a continuous process that has been occurring for centuries. While creativity, public acceptance, and distribution methods play a crucial role in the emergence of new genres, it is important to understand the nuances of these factors to truly appreciate their contribution.
According to Dietrich, Hertrich, and Ackermann's (2018) study on the emergence of new music genres, the process involves the recombination of existing musical elements in novel ways. In other words, artists need to be creative and innovative in combining existing sounds to create something new. This was seen in the emergence of genres like hip hop and EDM, where artists combined elements of funk, soul, and R&B with electronic beats and sounds to create something entirely new.
However, creativity alone is not enough to create a new genre. The genre needs to be accepted by the public, and this is where social and cultural factors come into play. In the case of hip hop, Forman and Neal's (2012) analysis suggests that the genre resonated with African American youth in the 1970s as it represented their experiences and struggles. Similarly, the emergence of punk rock in the 1970s was seen as a reaction to the commercialization of rock and roll and represented a countercultural movement.
Distribution methods also play a crucial role in the emergence of new genres. In the past, radio played a crucial role in promoting new sounds and introducing them to a wider audience. Meyer's (2011) analysis of the role of radio in the spread of rock and roll highlights how stations like WABC in New York City played a crucial role in promoting new sounds like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Today, the landscape of music distribution has changed with the rise of the internet and social media.
Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have created new opportunities for artists to promote their music and build a dedicated fan base. Tan, Baym, and Ross' (2013) study on the relationship between social media and music highlights how artists like Justin Bieber and Lorde were able to build their careers through social media. In the case of Justin Bieber, he was discovered on YouTube, and Lorde gained fame after posting her music on SoundCloud.
However, despite the democratization of music distribution, many artists still struggle to make a living from their art. Burnes and Davis' (2018) analysis of the economic challenges facing musicians suggests that crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon can be effective tools for artists to receive financial support from their fans. This has been seen in the case of Amanda Palmer, who raised over a million dollars on Kickstarter to fund her album and tour.
In conclusion, the emergence of new genres in music is a complex process that involves creativity, public acceptance, and distribution methods. While the factors that contribute to the emergence of new genres may change over time, the fundamental importance of creativity and public acceptance remains constant. By understanding these dynamics, artists can create new sounds that resonate with people and build a dedicated fan base using the latest distribution methods. Ultimately, it is the artists who drive the evolution of music, and their creativity and vision will continue to shape the future of the industry.