I chose to read Why
the Music Industry Hates Guitar Hero by Jeff Howe on page 268 of our
textbook. The magazine article beings with informing the reader that
Warner Music is at odds with Guitar Hero's success because of how
little the amount of money is paid to Warner for licensing fees. Half
of the article explains the reasoning behind the feud but the
argument is such a slippery slope since MTV games and Warner's are so
co-dependent on each other. The last half of the magazine essay is
Howe's innovative suggestions on how to resolve the tense financial
situation.
There were many
impressive points to Howe's article. His position on the Guitar
Hero/Warner Music argument was clear but he made his opinion
persuasive without being obnoxious. I also appreciated how he offered
solutions to the problem instead of just explaining why one side is
more right than the other. His suggestions for resolution were very
detailed and sensible; and as a result, I the reader was more
inclined to trust Howe's credibility to the situation. What I
appreciated the most was the picture of a deflated guitar included
within the article. It contains a strong visual rhetoric and leaves a
lasting impression on the reader.
In my opinion, this
article was well-written, Jeff Howe did a solid job. There is nothing
I would change and I can not think of any constructive criticisms. He
impressively made his point tactfully without beating around the
bush. I honestly think his suggestions to Guitar Hero and Warner
Music Group should be carefully considered!