In a candid conversation, New Rory & Mal unpack the current state of the music industry, expressing frustration over how the focus has shifted from full albums to viral, short-form tracks. The debate highlights the growing influence of platforms like TikTok and the rising trend of creating music that thrives on quick, catchy hooks rather than enduring artistry.
The discussion kicks off with a clash of opinions on album culture, with Rory lamenting that the focus on full projects has faded. He voiced his dissatisfaction with the industry’s monetization over artistry, saying that music is now business. The group agrees that, particularly in hip-hop, the push for profits has overtaken the pursuit of quality and originality.
The topic quickly turns to LiAngelo Ball’s music career, sparking a playful exchange about the significance of viral hits. Though Ball’s song may be catchy, they argue it highlights the industry’s focus on brief viral moments rather than the development of genuine musical talent. “A catchy TikTok track doesn’t equal artistry,” one member comments, underscoring the industry’s shift towards easily digestible songs.
The conversation delves deeper into how TikTok’s influence has altered the landscape of music, with the group criticizing the rise of short, viral tracks. While acknowledging the fun and hype these snippets bring to party scenes, they lament the loss of meaningful songs and albums. The consensus? Social media platforms and algorithms are dictating what becomes popular—often at the cost of artistry and substance.
The critique extends to music festivals like Rolling Loud, which the group argues has become more about viral moments than showcasing true musical talent. They point to LiAngelo Ball’s viral recognition, questioning the value of such moments when they overshadow real artistry. The discussion also touches on the struggles of young artists who are pressured to adapt to this viral-centric climate, leading to awkward or forced performances, such as those seen in Ice Spice’s early Rolling Loud sets.
A familiar refrain emerges in the conversation: each generation of music fans has complained about the industry’s direction. But as New Rory & Mal point out, today’s complaints are unique—focused not on the quality of music but on the trend toward quick, attention-grabbing viral moments. This new reality has left artists fighting for recognition as the industry increasingly prioritizes short-term hits over long-term artistry.
The episode concludes with a call for a return to full, authentic artistic expression, as the group underscores the need for more depth in the music industry.
