Richard Coles reflects on challenges in music industry

In the mid-1980s, The Communards, fronted by the exceptionally talented Jimmy Somerville, reached the pinnacle of their success while touring with a ten-piece ensemble. A notable highlight occurred when a member of the Dutch Royal Family expressed admiration for the band, leading to a planned backstage visit after a performance. However, it became clear that the royal guest was primarily interested in meeting Somerville, foreshadowing the band's eventual decline. The current music scene has shifted dramatically, with a notable decline in the prominence of bands. The rise of streaming platforms like Spotify has transformed how music is consumed, as algorithms tend to favor familiar sounds. This results in listeners receiving more of the same, such as additional tracks by artists like Ed Sheeran, which narrows the diversity of music available. Consequently, the industry has increasingly favored solo artists, who are often easier to manage than bands, which can be more volatile. Reflecting on his experiences, the author reminisces about the joy of collaborative music-making, from his early days as a boy chorister to his time in various bands. He recalls the unique blend of personalities within The Communards, including a diverse group of musicians who brought their distinct backgrounds to the stage. This collaboration produced not only memorable music but also a vibrant lifestyle filled with both chaos and camaraderie. Ultimately, the author expresses a longing for the return of more bands, emphasizing the irreplaceable magic of collective creativity in music.