While I'm ranting about perfection... ;-)

It costs WAY over $100K (a minimum, really) to produce a well-produced album.
That's a BARGAIN, considering the skills, time, equipment, and effort required to do a great set of recordings and mastering.

But, that's a huge barrier to amateurs. But, surprisingly, so many have found ways to make really good recordings - with help, some good low-cost equipment, and lots of trial-and-error.

Don't be afraid to support an artist who can get great recordings with awesome producers and facilities and technicians. Please support them!

But also, don't be afraid to try it yourself. At worst, you'll have had fun. On average, you've created something for others to enjoy. Win-win, as far as I see.

It takes a community (and a lot of money)

It takes a league of people, machines, time, expertise, and money - to make a professionally-cut album.

Bob Dylan and Sir Elton John both think that today's music is over-processed, over-polished. Many other musicians say they can't compete without hugely-edited music (to the tune of a minimum of $125K). Musicians who don't have the name- and brand-punch of Dylan and John don't seem to have much choice in the matter - produce in a particular way, or be left out.

Isn't it interesting that people with fine ears don't like over-compressed, over-processed music, but boardrooms seem to like it very much.

And then there's the little gal/guy, with their home equipment - making sounds, making emotions, sharing emotions. Do they stand a chance of being able to compete?

The artist shares great joy, great pain, great sorrow, and great love. What does a boardroom have to do with it?

Inspiring the next guitar legend

We've had Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, David Gilmour, B.B. King, Robert Johnson, Steve Vai, and so many others (how do you make a list like that short?). Thanks to these folks, we've got a wide and diverse library of sounds and musical emotions from which to choose.

Can we afford to sit and enjoy the ones we have and let it go at that?

No.

Inspire your kids and neighbors' kids to play. Let them listen to your best and most memorable music. Tell them why it moves you. Let them know how important music is to your life.

Support your local bands. Support your local musicians. Buy records and tickets... tell your friends about the music and musicians you like. Spread the word for the ones that shine...