It is important to understand that while classical and jazz music are some of the most complicated forms of art music expressing both in-depth theoretical and historical knowledge, let us not forget the popular music of our day. The songs you hear on a daily basis broadcasted from radio, storefronts, restaurants, and nearly every venue in todays society is a complicated mix of artistic values. Unlike classical, and jazz forms which are for the most part solely based on the work itself, popular music is a complicated mix of image, current trends, publicity, and showmanship. As throughout all periods of music history only a very few artists and compositions of this time will truly inspire and further transcend from this generation into the next. So often todays music popularity is based on the clothing, video, the physical appearance of the artist, and their ability to sell themselves. Listen carefully to the music of today, don’t be quick to judge but strive to learn, let your decisions be based on artistic integrity, thoughtfulness, and the message, not the video, the latest trends, or the clothing. Remember many of today’s top artists study the theory, and history of the musical forms they emulate in their own work. Some current works are extremely complicated and will further forge the path of modern popular music. Remember we are living in this time and only future generations will know which artists will survive from this era, be mindful of the music of today, study it, and make your decisions based on what music is really about, the message, and remember every song has the right to be heard.