Briefly (And 100% Seriously) Analyzing The Never-Ending Debate of Separating Art From Artist
“He Made Graduation”
by Stevie Skvarek
Recently, indie trio COIN disbanded following allegations leveled against guitarist Joe Memmel and drummer Ryan Winnen. Specific details remain private, yet singer Chase Lawrence promptly took to Instagram and stated that COIN would cease activity effective immediately. Fans were left feeling confused and betrayed, debating whether to sell their merchandise and stop listening to the band altogether. This internal conflict between desire to make the morally sound choice and desire to consume preferred media is complex, and often manifests itself in reactions that can topple careers and divide fanbases.
Within discourse of this topic, it can be observed that people generally fall into one of two camps:
Those who immediately cut support for artists accused of misconduct (streaming music, buying merch, etc.)
Those who relentlessly defend their god-given right to listen to said artists, regardless of evidence or values
There are many justifications provided by those in camp two, including but not limited to:
The artist’s previous output/influence is great enough to excuse their transgressions (i.e. 14-year-old Kanye fans commenting “He made Graduation” every time the infamous rapper compares himself to Hitler)
Only one contributor did something bad, so supporting other members is fine (i.e. Jesse Lacey of Brand New, Ameer Vann of Brockhampton; both single members of a group who were abusers unbeknownst to their fellow musicians)
Given that this debate is entirely situational, each rationalization holds different merit depending on lived experience; the true takeaway of these instances is the intense nature of parasocial relationships.
When you’re deeply impacted by a work of art, you grow attached to its creator. This explains why people advocate for celebrities despite immoral behavior, or conversely, feel so crushed by such behavior that they eschew the creator entirely.
In the Internet age, it’s important to remember: you don’t know celebrities. Whatever personal snippets you’ve gleaned from social media and fan encounters are a mere fraction of what’s happening behind the curtain. This attitude is not intended to ignore the offenses of those who have truly hurt others, but to allow listeners to detach themselves from unnecessarily draining situations. Taking time to disconnect from the lives of the rich and famous can serve as a mental detox, and, in the words of Marky Mark, a rapper lauded for his talent and benevolent personality, “pump positive vibes”..... Wait, Mark Wahlberg did WHAT in 1988? Jesus Christ. Forget I said anything.
Stevie Skvarek works as a music news reporter, reviewing releases new and old as well as covering local and national touring acts. As a longtime musician, he seeks to spread the magic of music by exposing readers to unfamiliar artists and promoting touring bands. Based in Rochester, you can often find Stevie attending or playing in shows at cozy venues such as Montage Music Hall and Bug Jar. Contact him by email at sskvare6@mail.naz.edu.