The Gilded Cage of Music
The music industry has always been seen as a realm of glamour, creativity, and endless opportunities. However, it can be better classified as a gilded cage because behind the glitz and the glamour lies a harsh reality that has long plagued the industry. Artists have been falling prey to exploitation for years. They do not realize it, at first, under the golden hue of their new careers, but this quickly unravels as soon as they misstep. Their dream is quickly turned into a nightmare as they are subjected to exploitative contracts, unfair compensation, and limited creative control.
Young artists, in particular, are more vulnerable to the manipulative forces and pressures exerted by big media corporations. The exploitation of young artists often begins with the complicated contracts they sign, which are riddled with legal jargon and clauses that put the needs of the record labels above those of the artists. Because of this, artists may find themselves trapped in unfavorable agreements, unable to exercise their creative freedom. The story of Kesha’s legal battle against her producer Dr. Luke serves as one of the many painful reminders of an artist’s struggle to break free from oppressive contracts. The #FreeKesha movement rallied support from fans and fellow artists, drawing attention to the struggle for artists’ rights and the need for reform in the industry.
This lack of control over their music and lives can ultimately lead to a loss of identity. They feel as though they have lost themselves and their purpose. In June 2019, Taylor Swift posted a message on her Tumblr account saying, “For years I asked, pleaded for a chance to own my work… I walked away because I knew once I signed that contract, Scott Borchetta would sell the label, thereby selling me and my future”. At this point, Swift like many other artists in her position feels as though they are not in control of anything and are just aimlessly drifting through their life. They do not recognize themselves or their music anymore because everything is being controlled by the industry. This serious case of imposter syndrome can lead to the artist’s downfall. However, things are changing. Artists are attempting to reclaim their identities and regain control of their lives. Taylor Swift’s recordings of her albums mark a monumental shift in power dynamics in the music industry. By creating “Taylor’s Version” of her past albums, she is refinding and redefining herself. Like many artists who entered the industry at a young age, she found herself prey to the glittery charm of controlling record labels and was subjected to a feud over the ownership of her music. “Taylor’s Version” is about reclaiming ownership of her creativity. It has allowed her to take back control of her art and financial future. Her journey has empowered other artists to address the power dynamics present in the music industry.
Exploitation in the industry can be combatted through mentorship and education. Established artists, music industry professionals, and organizations can play a pivotal role in guiding young talent, helping them understand the ins and outs of the industry, and providing resources to protect their rights. Additionally, artists should educate themselves on the legal aspects of the music business and seek legal advice before signing contracts. Awareness of the potential risks helps those in the industry become better equipped to make decisions that are in their best interests.
An exploitative contract is essentially a cage for the artist. Everyone is watching the artist, being entertained by them; yet, behind the glass, the artist is suffering because of their lack of control. They are constantly told what to do and how to do it. They are not allowed to leave their cage and flourish under their creativity; they are restricted to what the management wants from them. This issue has persisted for far too long. It is time for the music industry to live up to its promised glamour by prioritizing fair contracts, transparency, and the protection of artists' creative control. We have to break the glass.
Written by Isana Mehta, Photography: Fayobami Taiwo, Design: Claire Thessen, Social Media: Sofia Mora