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Articles on Pop music

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A cross stitch recreation of Nirvana’s classic album cover by Mr X Stitch. Jamie Chalmers/flickr

Can an album still define the times? Oh Well. Whatever. Nevermind.

Nirvana’s Nevermind was emblematic of the 1990s. But in today’s fragmented digital age, can anyone nominate an album that defines the first or second decade of the 21st century?
Is the system broken? 'Record Player' via www.shutterstock.com

Are the Grammys really about good music?

After winning his Grammy in 1996, Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder said, ‘I don’t think this means anything.’ Was he right?
Punters cheer at the 2016 Glastonbury Festival. Revenue from live performances is growing. Stoyan Nenov/Reuters

Why music is not lost

In Australia, musicians’ total income actually went up last year. While the music industry still faces many challenges, there is now a world-wide push to boost artists’ royalties paid by streaming services such as Spotify.
A saxophone player busks in New York: as technology transforms their industry, quite a lot of musicians are leaving the field. Michael Tapp

Friday essay: the loss of music

Whenever you listen to a streamed song, like it but don’t buy it and instead stream it again, you are casting a vote for the future nonexistence of professional musicians.
Leonard Cohen in 2012 accepting an award for his song lyrics. Jessica Rinaldi/Reuters

Goodbye Leonard, you brought us so much light

Leonard Cohen, who has died at 82, had both a tragic vision and a voice that was warm, funny and closely observant. His unique gaze helped fans see the world anew.
Prince performs during the 2013 Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Steve Marcus/Reuters

Are pop stars destined to die young?

For those on Rolling Stone’s list of 100 Greatest Artists, their life expectancy is on par with the people of Chad, the nation with the lowest life expectancy in the world.

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