The music industry is corrupt and greedy

This should be a no brainer to anyone. If you noticed the sharp decline in quality and content of mainstream pop, yet were made aware of the quality demonstrated in some underground acts, you should know there is a filter within' the industry looking to tune out dissenting views and content that doesn't give them the $$$ they desire for the day. This is why I've always stated (since 2004-2005, at least): pop is the only genre that refuses innovation. Pop music was built on conformity and $$$. With rock, rap, country, jazz, alternative, thrash, unorthodox messages and innovation are not wholly banned but modern pop OTOH...

You could give the music industry a middle finger by deliberately avoiding the purchase of modern Billboard singles/albums. Or you could be the sheepish consumer who buys into every detail on the mass media, entertainment included.