Music shopping is not like it used to be. In the late 60s, through the 70s, and into the 80s, you could go into independent music stores like Dearborn, make friendly aquaintances with employees (they'd have different people for the different types of music) and get turned on to lots of new stuff. I was 12 and in Dearborn Music asking for the newest Dave Clark Five record. The very hip looking teenage girl said, "They're alright but you have to check out this new band called the Byrds." They also introduced me to Hendrix, Jethro Tull, Coltrane, Miles, Monk... the list goes on and on. Remember, this was before FM radio played anything other than classical. Dearborn Music also turned me on to the English composers of the last century, Lloyd, Arnold, Bax, Vaughn-Williams, etc.
Now I go in there and it's a good day if anyone even makes eye contact other than a half embarrassed side glance and mumbled, "You need anything?" A year or so ago I asked a young worker about an all girl local Detroit band with the word "Cobra" in their name and an EP they'd released which had been favorably reviewed in the Detroit Free Press. He looked confused, shrugged, and said he had no idea who that would be. I then asked a young women employee the same question, she did exact same thing, turned and walked away. I found the manager who was helpful in saying, "I have no idea who that would be, I don't follow local bands." I asked who the store expert was in that category, he said they didn't have one. This in the town of The White Stripes, The Von Bodies, Eminem, Insane Clown Posse, etc. No wonder record sales are down - the stores are a depressing place to shop.
Side bar: Why are so many young people today both cynical and dull at the same time? Why is every kid shown on MTV slouching or laying down? Down they even have the energy to sit in a chair?!? I teach kickboxing, am 52 years old, and can barely find someone in their 20s who can spar two rounds without dying. What's happening here??
