The idea is to encourage, not discourage

Music is (and probably has always been) an evolving and living thing.

The good music that has already been made will stand the test of time, and will be enjoyed for many generations to come. Both musical tastes and trends come and go, ebb and flow... but great music sustains and persists over and above trends, fads, or fluctuations in the human condition.

Beyond music that has already been made, there is the potential for new music. New music comes from both established artists and inexperienced neophytes. New music comes from the imagination, the hunger for success, or combinations of both.

I think it is great to revel in the beauty of music that is already with us. I think it is wonderful to give in to the safety of tunes that we know and understand. However, I think it is equally important to give our ears to new things (even if all that happens is that one has greater appreciation for what one already likes). We must grow and change to foster new music.

Which brings me to my point: New artists/newbies/neophytes need to be deeply and enthusiastically supported and encouraged. We need and want new bands/artists - on a constant basis. Yes, many new bands should probably stay in the garage or basement. Yes, not all of them are Led Zeppelins, Yoyo Mas, Johnny Cashs, or Mariah Careys. Yes, sometimes, the beginnings are a bit sour.

But, over time, newbies grow musical muscle. They grow understanding of how to express their art. We must be there for them through all the stages of their development. John Lennon didn't start out as an iconic musical firebrand - he started out just like the latest garage band that you've heard on YouTube - sour notes and all (well, maybe with lots of underlying undeveloped genius).

Spend some time sending notes of encouragement to new musicians. Go to see live shows of folks you've not heard. Buy self-produced CDs of artists who sound good (or who sound like they'll be great in the future). Write positive comments on band music pages at places like isound.com and stage.fm. Encourage the young ones to pick up an instrument and play. Offer your warehouse or garage to some local folks looking for a place to play. Listen to one unheard artist a week.

Support new and upcoming musicians (of all ages). It makes a difference. Besides, you might just enjoy yourself along the way.