Normalization of Triviality

Rabat, Morocco – In an era where media consumption is pervasive, a critical examination of content quality is paramount. This piece from Hespress delves into the concerning trend of "normalizing triviality," particularly within the realm of Moroccan popular music and its presentation on public broadcasting.

The author contends that certain public television channels, tasked with preserving and promoting cultural heritage, are instead descending into mediocrity. By prioritizing superficial elements like repetitive rhymes and basic rhythms, they risk eroding artistic standards and pandering to the lowest common denominator of taste. This approach, the article suggests, neglects the potential for music to convey deeper meaning and foster genuine artistic appreciation.

Drawing parallels to historical Arabic prose and folk songs, the author highlights a perceived shift from substance to style. While acknowledging the evolution of popular music, the piece expresses disappointment in the current state, where loudness and fleeting emotional appeal often overshadow lyrical depth and musical sophistication. The critique extends to the selection process for cultural programs, questioning the expertise of those who champion simplistic or noisy performances over more nuanced artistic expressions. This is a call for a higher standard, urging a return to valuing content that enriches, rather than merely entertains superficially.