Music Influences

Our class held a group discussion concerning how we have been influenced to like or buy music in the past and in the present. Some very interesting points kept on being raised that seemed to apply to the entire group, so I've collected a summary of the most important notes.

As a child, musical influuence often came from:

1. Older Siblings
2. Parents
3. Friends
4. Songs taught in school
5. Songs from popular culture, such as children's and reality talent shows.

From this, it can be seen that children tend to follow trends dictated by popular culture. Music is initially a way to fit in rather than stand out, so they tend to conform to mainstream conventions.

Beyond childhood, music tastes appear to broaden. This usually happens as people start searching for an individual style and personality. In the past, people have cornered themselves into a specific genre, but now that we have become an 'ipod generation', tastes in music are widening, instead of falling into a niche area.

Music influences beyond childhood:
Friends

1. Youtube Searches
2. Other internet promotions
3. Songs from tv and film soundtracks
4. Radio