The Era of Master Domain Music 1964-1994

Abstract

Abstract:

A new art form in music grounded in the recording medium itself emerged in the second half of the 20th century. This new medium-based art form no longer relied on a written score to preserve music. Rather, it preserved music and the recording artist's performance with a recording master. The recording master was a definitive version of the music that could be reproduced mechanically. This art form is defined here as "master domain music." In this dissertation, the development of mainstream master domain music between 1964-1994 is discussed. The musicians, the music, and the industries that produced the music developed and matured symbiotically to produce the enduring successes of this era. This dissertation examines the development of the technology, the evolution of the music industry, and the seminal music that achieved acclaim in each decade. The contributions of master domain music to artistic creativity, cultural influences, and technological innovation are discussed. The last chapter, 1994, analyzes the sweeping changes that took place in the industry's production and distribution of music, as well as the value of the master. These changes can now be recognized as signaling the end of an era. The major works of master domain music discussed in this dissertation include The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Jimi Hendrix's "The Star-Spangled Banner," Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon, U2's The Joshua Tree, and Nine Inch Nails' The Downward Spiral.