The Music Industry = Suit City

Having being involved in the South African music industry for over 20 years it is my sound conviction [excuse the pun] that it is run by a bunch of money-grubbing suits who's only interest are their own back pockets.

Why do I say this?

As an example: There is a man who goes by the name of Mr. Eric Gallo - yes, he of Gallo Records fame. He was extremely wealthy - I mean with REALLY deep pockets. He worked wonders for the industry during his time and under his direction a great many unknown talents were discovered. This was good.

The questions we must ask now are:

• What happened to them?
• Where did their careers lead them?
• Where are those artists now?????
• What musical black hole swallowed them up?

The real question is: What did the record company do for them that might provide a sustainable income, and thereby ensure that we still enjoy their art today?

It would be interesting to see a comparison between what the record companies make out of a particular artist and what the artist himself goes home with at the end of the day. Tragic.

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