The Value of Music in Our Lives
Music has always been more than sound. It’s emotion, storytelling, and a reflection of culture. Think about the songs that define moments in your life—from first dances to heartbreaks to celebrations. Recently, I did a video asking people about their favorite ‘6 Tool’ song—a track that works in multiple scenarios, whether it’s at a party, during a workout, or to kickstart your day. It was a fascinating look at how versatile music can be and how it shapes our experiences.
Today, a single stream is worth fractions of a cent. Artists pour their souls into creating music, only to have it consumed like fast food—quick, convenient, and easily forgotten. But what if we started to see music as true art, worthy of the same respect and value we give to paintings, sculptures, and other creative works?
The Parallel Between Music and Visual Art
My brother, Cameron, is a dope muralist. His work decorates walls in communities, offices, and restaurants telling stories through vibrant colors and intricate designs. People travel to see his murals, take photos in front of them, and commission him to bring their visions to life. They value the time, skill, and creativity it takes to produce each piece.
Now imagine if his art were treated like music in the streaming era. Instead of commissioning a mural that tells a unique story, someone might slap a generic wallpaper on the wall—quick, cheap, and impersonal. It might cover the space, but it would lack the soul and creativity that makes art special. But that’s not how art works. We value it because it’s unique, because it tells a story, and because it connects us to something greater.
Music deserves the same treatment. Every lyric, beat, and melody is crafted with intention. When you support an artist by purchasing their work, attending their shows, or sharing their music, you’re valuing their craft in a way that streaming alone never will.
You can see more of his dope work on his Instagram @YoYoCam or visit his website YoYoCamArt.com.
Why Supporting Artists Matters
- Investing in music sustains creativity: Independent artists rely on your support to create. Every album sale, ticket, and merch purchase makes a difference.
- Pushing back against commercialization: Supporting artists directly helps unique voices thrive, breaking free from formulaic trends.
- Fostering personal connections: Supporting an artist’s work allows you to connect more deeply with their music. Knowing that your contribution helps them create makes each song feel more meaningful.
When you invest in music, you’re not just buying songs—you’re sustaining creativity. Independent artists, in particular, rely on direct support to keep creating. Unlike massive record labels, they don’t have the luxury of endless budgets. Every album sale, concert ticket, and merch purchase helps them continue to tell their stories.
Supporting artists is also a way to push back against the commercialization of creativity. Algorithms prioritize what’s trending, often sidelining innovation and originality. By valuing artists directly, you’re ensuring that unique voices continue to thrive in a world dominated by formulas.
Reimagining Music Consumption
What if we started to approach music the way we approach other forms of art? Imagine framing your favorite vinyl like a painting, or seeing a concert as an exhibit. These aren’t just passive experiences—they’re moments to connect deeply with the art and the artist behind it.
Think back to the summer of 2024. At cookouts or pool parties on the Fourth of July, when Not Like Us took over, how many times did everyone in unison scream out “A Minoooooorrr!”? Those moments capture the power of music to bring us together and create lasting memories. It’s not just sound—it’s an experience.
6eorge’s album, The Inauguration, is an example of music as art. It’s not just an album—it’s a statement, a journey, and a story that demands your attention. By supporting projects like this, you’re saying that music matters—that it’s worth more than a fraction of a cent.
Take Action
The next time you listen to a song, ask yourself: What is this worth to me? Then, take a step beyond streaming. Buy the album, attend the show, buy merchandise or share it with someone who needs to hear it. Let’s start treating music as the art form it truly is.
Watch 6eorge’s Bourbon 6uide: How to Introduce 6eorge to Your Musical Palate, Just Like Introducing Bourbon to Your Taste Palate.