The music industry today has largely devolved into a market dominated by small, local heroes. It’s clear how much music has lost its cultural value. Once upon a time, artists were the driving force behind fashion and trends. Designers, TV programs, and media outlets fought to feature the latest artists because they were trendsetters and cultural icons. Now, the dynamic has flipped. Influencers are the ones shaping fashion and trends, while artists are increasingly relegated to the background.

This shift has caused the industry to split into two distinct camps, a division that’s been growing for years but is now more pronounced than ever. On one side, we have global superstars like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé—artists who still hold cultural weight. However, their circle is becoming increasingly exclusive, almost impenetrable. On the other side, there’s a growing number of local performers—talented, perhaps, but reduced to playing music as a hobby, catering to small, niche audiences.

The decline began with the rise of streaming. What started as a shift in how music is consumed has now extended to the live music sector. Festivals that were once cutting-edge are now programming lineups aimed at audiences over 50. The result? High costs to book the same artists we’ve seen year after year, leaving audiences wondering why nothing feels fresh anymore.

Frankly, I’m fed up with this endless cycle of mediocrity. Spending time with local players who lack ambition or innovation feels like being a professional chef stuck watching an amateur burn food on a backyard grill. These people are convinced they’re doing a great job, unwilling to listen to advice or adapt. At the same time, they complain that no one is paying attention to their efforts. But the truth is, their work is destined to serve only a small audience—not the masses.

For me, time is too valuable to waste. As much as I like some of these local players, they’re draining energy without yielding meaningful results. The industry is evolving, with a new breed of professionals emerging. It’s a more exclusive, competitive space, and breaking into these circles requires focus and adaptability. It’s clear I need to make changes to align myself with this new wave, even if it means letting go of the small-time connections I once valued.