Audio Media
Audio media has drastically changed over the last few decades. Being able to listen to music throughout the day used to be considered a privilege for the rich and a luxury. However, with modern technology music and other audio media sources are now easily accessible to everyone. You cannot go out in public anymore without seeing people with earphones on. It is crazy to think how technology has changed our daily lives over the last century.
Record and Radio
Throughout the majority of known history the only way for us to enjoy music was through live performances. Local taverns would often employ performers and concerts were highly thought of events. This all changed in the late 19th century with the invention of the record player. This enabled people to listen to music without the need for a live performance. At first, record players were an expensive and a commodity for only the rich but over time the price started to drop and this luxury became available to most people. Now, for the first time, people could listen to music without the need for a performer.
The ability to listen to music took another step forward in the early 20th century with the invention of AM radio. People could now listen to different songs and artists without the need of records. All you needed was a radio receiver and you could find something to listen to without having to purchase additional components like records. This technological advancement not only made music more accessible yet again, but also ensured that people could receive some variety in their daily listening as well.
More than Just Music
The invention and the rise of radio technology also lead to the diversification of audio media. People could now listen to more than just music. Live news broadcasts, sports broadcasts, and other programming started to become available. This was a major change to communication in the country and in the world. The latest news stories could be delivered to the people much faster. People no longer got the latest scoops from the daily newspaper but from the evening radio news broadcasts. This also had a huge impact on the sports world as well. People could now tune in and find out if there team was winning or losing in live time without having to be at the game. Additionally, scores were now known by more people much quicker than in the past. Newsprint media would still give you more information the next day when the details went to print, but the scores and other key facts were now know same day and often in real time.
Taking it to the Next Level
Toward the end of the 20th century our ability to listen to music and audio media once again took a drastic step forward. The development of cassette tapes, walkman, and portable headphones took a leap forward. We were no longer required to sit at home around a stationary item in order to listen to our favorite songs and news shows. This technological advancement went even farther with the invention of MP3 players and wireless headphones. We have now eliminated the cords and wires that used to tangle us up when listening. We now have the ability to listen to almost anything, at anytime, and in any location.
If our great grandparents were to see how we live our lives today they would be dumbfounded. We can now get instant entertainment at the push of a button and we get to listen to background music everywhere we go. It is in stores, in cars, in our offices, and even in elevators. It is a wonder that we often take for granted. Technology has continued to evolve at a fast pace and who knows what the next big development will be. In the mean time, remember to take a moment and appreciate what we have and image what your day at work would be like if you office was always silent.