In a refreshingly candid interview that challenges the rose-tinted glasses of music nostalgia, Blur's drummer Dave Rowntree has declared that the music scene today is, in many ways, superior to the much-romanticised Britpop era of the 1990s.
The musician, who has since forged a successful parallel career in politics, argues that the industry's past is often viewed through a distorted lens. He contends that while the '90s produced iconic music, the current landscape offers far greater opportunities for artists and diversity for listeners.
The Myth of the 'Good Old Days'
Rowntree directly tackles the pervasive myth that music was inherently better in the past. He suggests that this belief is often a symptom of ageing, where people fondly remember the soundtrack of their youth while dismissing new genres. The reality, he insists, is that fantastic music is being created constantly; you just have to know where to find it.
"There's a sort of cultural amnesia," he observes, pointing out that every generation tends to believe its music was the peak. The digital age, often criticised, has dismantled the old gatekeepers, allowing for a more democratic and varied musical ecosystem.
A Healthier Industry for Artists
Beyond the music itself, Rowntree highlights significant structural improvements. The Britpop years, for all their cultural power, were dominated by major labels with immense control over which bands succeeded. Today, artists have unprecedented access to global audiences without needing a traditional record deal.
This shift empowers creators, fosters niche genres, and challenges the homogenised playlists of the past. While acknowledging the challenges of streaming economics, he implies that creative freedom is a valuable trade-off.
Looking Forward, Not Back
Now an established composer for film and television, Rowntree practices what he preaches by embracing modern music production and distribution. His perspective is not one of dismissal towards Blur's legacy but rather a mature acknowledgment that progress is both inevitable and positive.
His message is clear: instead of lamenting a past that never was, music fans should celebrate the vibrant and accessible scene that exists right now. The next great band is already out there, and they've got more ways to reach you than ever before.
