Mashup... Will It Survive?

Everyone likes it when a new style or trend emerges whether it be fashion, technology, music or even people. Gregg Gillis is trying to do just this in the media industry. Introducing a new form of art, or rather music through the combination and blending of previously reordered and copyrighted songs. This idea commonly referred to as, mashup, has made quite the name amongst individuals today. His shows, Girl Talk, have raised an interest in many listeners who are excited about the possibility of this new, unique and good sound produced through mashup. However, the possibility isn’t as easy as Gillis spreading this new art and success in his work; artists and multiple companies are questioning the legality of his work. Is Gillis in line with copyright regulations? Finding the balance is the key, because we can’t limit the opportunity of a new era, or genre of music developing.

The unique and captivating sound presented in this style of music is created through the mixture of anywhere from two to thirty (or so) songs into one. With this being said, the length of each song is so short that it shouldn’t require authorization. Gillis is using this argument to hopefully progress his creations and allow his work to continue to spread across America. Contrary to the previous statement, Gillis is taking someone else’s work (money) and applying it so his own productions. Thus, Gillis is receiving the full benefits that in reality incorporate the work of many. With a production that involves so many different artists the ability to regulate and determine a fair policy will be rather difficult. The talent and opportunity for a new and developing part of our culture that has already had much success should not be limited. Gregg Gillis is raising a question that may be marking history, solving endless copyright problems or just releasing a new style in our society today.