Why Musicians?: Wider Conspiracy in the Music Industry

 

With all that’s been said in this blog over the last couple of weeks, I’d like to finish with a final post about my intrigue with modern-day conspiracy theories around the music industry in general, and how they develop as time passes and the idea of fame changes. Extending beyond those who have died, the conspiracies of the deeply rich and famous being controlled by upper echelons has connection as far back as Mozart and Freemasonry. Prior to the 21 Club, and post-the majority of the 27 Club, major pop stars such as Lady Gaga and Beyoncé have been linked to the same dark conspiracies as their contemporaries, especially in the early 2010s. In a similar manner to what has been discussed with the 21 Club, these pop stars have been ‘caught’ referencing the Eye of Horus, CIA’s MK Ultra programme and many others, as written by many respected outlets, such as the Guardian – going so far as to write an article titled ‘Lady Gaga and the New World Order’ where these points are discussed.

I would like to finish up on this blog with a discussion as to why musicians become the talking point and hook for conspiracies such as these. Why are the American general public so convinced that there is more to fame?

In simple terms, we can relate it to social, political and economic insecurity. The idea of a political elite controlling everything from media to petrol prices is by no means a new concept and flashes throughout history during times of political and economic uncertainty. Robert Johnson passed away after the depression and the height of the tension before the Second World War. The 1970s, the period when the 27 Club became more notable, had the highest rate of inflation in US economy history. The Wall Street Crash of 1987 led to a new society and form of music – grunge – in the 90s, completely intertwined with Kurt Cobain. The 2008 financial crisis coincided with Lady Gaga’s debut album. Financial insecurity and new, seemingly odd concepts within highly consumed media leads to conspiracy.

Ultimately, conspiracy theory around music is so wide spread simply due to the accessibility of music. The 27 Club and the 21 Club are both tragic and intriguing coincidences with much to discuss in a wider context.

I hope this blog has been enjoyable to read. It has certainly been enjoyable to write!