Authenticity in Music

My favorite recordings, performances, and compositions feel authentic.

What is authenticity?

Authentic is defined by Merriam-Webster as:

• not false or imitation: REAL, ACTUAL
• true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character
• obsolete : AUTHORITATIVE

But, what is authenticity in music?

It may mean something slightly different to everyone, but most may agree that authentic music has meaning, personality, and originality. When a great performer delivers like they wrote the song or composition, I am moved by it’s honesty. When they show their true character with and without words, I feel connected on some spiritual level.

This reflection helped me craft my own definition:

Authenticity in music is not only how a musician performs but is also how a listener perceives the performance. (Click to Tweet)

The Pluck

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