[lbo-talk] Paglia on Gaga

[Dennis Perrin]

I was talking to my 19-year-old daughter about Lady Gaga the other day, and 
while she likes the masks and outrageous costumes, she admits that Gaga's 
derivative, not only borrowing from Madonna, but Cher as well.

"Everything's been done," she sighs. "It's all just repeats now."

True. And yet I can't help but think that new forms can be pulled from the 
derivative mass. It's been done before. Problem is, the corporate 
stranglehold is pretty much total. Not as much room to maneuver as before. 
Communication is in flux, revenues are down, creating a more conservative 
atmosphere. At least here in the US. Outside, I know new currents are taking 
shape. At least I hope so.

Dennis