Is Popular Music a Commodity or is it Art?

Popular music is a business, out of which people make a living. A record may have been produced and then again reproduced a number of times. Some might argue that the artist’s expression may have got lost in the process. Adorno branded pop a standardized commodity and wasn’t open to the evolvement of the music culture. He appreciated classical music and drew a distinctive line between the styles. Can a song be produced to give it a new meaning? Electronic music uses sampling and mixing as it’s main element in making new tracks. A DJ or producer can give a piece their personal touch, a unique new sound. That could be considered an expression of an artist. In my opinion, Adorno’s view is too dry and negative. There’s Art -Modern (Pop-!) Art -Classical Music -Modern Music... Music changes! With time it takes influences but that doesn’t make it any less valuable. Pop can be a particular, but it is not consumed like other commodities are.