David Rowell - The Endless Refrain

Upstart Crow

Do We Even Want New Music Anymore?

Why are people less interested in discovering new music? In this episode, we explore how nostalgia, technology, and cultural shifts shape our listening habits with guest David Rowell and his new book The Endless Refrain. From the dominance of classic hits to the impact of streaming algorithms, we break down the forces that keep us clinging to the familiar while new artists struggle to break through.

David Rowell is a seasoned journalist, editor, and author with a deep understanding of cultural trends. He spent nearly 25 years at The Washington Post Magazine, covering entertainment, music, and societal shifts. His writing has explored the ways we consume art and culture, making him the perfect voice to tackle this topic. With years of experience analyzing trends, Rowell offers a thought-provoking perspective on why we may be turning away from new sounds and what that means for the future of music.

Join us for a deep dive into the changing landscape of music consumption - why we love what we already know and whether there's still room for something new.

Hosted by Ken Budd

Key Takeaways:

• The power of familiarity: Why audiences react more strongly to old favorites than fresh tracks.
• The rise of nostalgia-driven music consumption and the impact of streaming algorithms.
• Concert holograms and AI artists: Are we embracing the past at the cost of innovation?
• What this trend means for independent musicians trying to break through.

#MusicTrends #NostalgiaEffect #NewMusic

You can learn more about David on his website and purchase this book or his other writings here:

https://www.davidrowellauthor.com/

Be sure to visit the Upstart Crow website for more information about hosts, guests, and ways you can support the show:

https://upstartcrow.org/

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Edited & Produced by Jon D PodCom