Mulholland Dr.ive is a 2001 film written and directed by David Lynch. In this intriguing work, a scene that has become iconic is that of the protagonists Betty and Rita at “Club Silencio” (love the name!): it starts with the master of ceremonies explains that everything is an illusion (there is no band, and yet we hear a band). The women soon cry to the sound of the Spanish version of “Crying” by Rebekah del Rio. The artist faints, but the singing continues, revealing that the audio is a playback recording.

I could not help thinking of this scene so full of meanings, while watching on tv to the recent performance of popstar Madonna in Rio de Janeiro, in a mega show for over 1,5 million people on the Copacabana beach.

The magnitude of the show was undeniable. From the dedicated members of her team to the remarkable audience numbers for the live broadcast, every aspect of the event was larger than life. Even the undertaking of cleaning up the Copacabana beach after the concert was colossal, highlighting the immense scale of the production.

All the figures surrounding the presentation are gigantic, except one, which, by the way, is zero: the number of musicians on stage.

Such nonsense, in addition to the fact that the vocals themselves are based on pre-recorded bases, made me think about how a performance like this cannot be considered, strictly speaking, a concert. After all, what is the place of music in pop?

When considering the performance, technology, and the perception of musical artistry within the realm of pop music, it is important to acknowledge the dynamic interplay between these elements. The evolution of technology has not only revolutionized the way music is produced and consumed, but it has also significantly impacted the performance aspect of pop music.

Advances in audio recording, digital effects, and electronic instruments have provided artists with unprecedented creative tools, allowing them to push the boundaries of their artistry. From the use of Auto-Tune to enhance vocal performances, to the incorporation of electronic instruments and samples in live shows, technology has become an integral part of pop music, raising questions about the authenticity and artistry of these performances.

It is disheartening to witness major international pop stars, Madonna being just one example among many, dismissing musicians during their world tours. This behavior raises questions about fair treatment and respect within the music industry. When artists who have reached the pinnacle of success neglect their supporting musicians, it is, well, disappointing, to say the least.

Maybe it is about time we start giving classical music some more love. I have always been impressed by how this genre manages to evolve while still holding onto its core essence. I mean, imagine shelling out to watch an opera, only to find out that the lead soprano is lip-syncing to pre-recorded tracks? That would be a real scandal, right? So why do we naturalize it in current pop?

I’m aware that it’s difficult to make such criticisms without sounding extremely old-fashioned, but I’m willing to take the risk. After all, I also find some things very old-fashioned, for example, hypersexualized performances. I know that the saying “sex sells” dictates the rules, but I also know that at this point in time, such performances seem more boring than revolutionary. It is all so repetitive!

Do you know what would be revolutionary now? a performance less polluted by stage elements and complicated choreography, based on the artists’ talent and ability to perform live on stage. In short, entertainment that actually entertains, instead of just distracting.

Returning to talent-focused entertainment can have a profound impact on the industry, emphasizing skill and artistry over other superficial qualities. Embracing talent-focused entertainment can lead to a resurgence of genuine artistry, captivating audiences with the sheer brilliance and passion of performers.

In a world saturated with manufactured personas, placing talent at the forefront can breathe new life into the industry, offering audiences an authentic and awe-inspiring entertainment experience.

Be seeing you!

G.F.