The Relevancy of Adorno’s Warnings on Musical Fascism Today

This research paper critically examines Theodor Adorno’s critique of popular music, focusing on its standardization and its role in shaping listener experiences and societal norms. By exploring Adorno’s arguments about the mechanical nature of popular music and its potential to stifle creativity and individuality, the paper contextualizes these ideas within the early 20th century’s Tin Pan Alley music and their relevance in today’s musical and digital landscape.

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The analysis incorporates examples from Tin Pan Alley’s standardized structures to contemporary music trends, including TikTok and short-form video platforms, highlighting how popular music perpetuates cycles of passive consumption. It also delves into Adorno’s warnings about music as a tool for social control, drawing parallels to modern digital algorithms and their impact on user behavior and emotional dependency.

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This paper demonstrates proficiency in research synthesis, critical analysis, and academic writing, providing a nuanced exploration of Adorno’s concerns and their enduring significance in understanding the interplay between music, culture, and society.