Why does runway music suck now?

[big]

Until recently, one of my favorite aspects of any fashion week was hearing the music selected to accompany the various runway shows. A great soundtrack can really drive home the themes and emotions of a collection.

Lately though, it seems like the vast majority of shows feature instrumental or ambient music only - and often the most uninspiring, borderline funereal tunes you can imagine. Is this just the current mode? Or does it have something to do with copyright law, especially as more and more houses post their shows to their own YouTube and social media accounts? It seems like the cost of licensing music would be insignificant when compared to the cost to produce a runway show...

PS: Possibly my favorite runway soundtrack of all time is Chanel's 2018 Cruise collection. Enjoy.

 

[Scotty]

It seems like the cost of licensing music would be insignificant when compared to the cost to produce a runway show...

I agree with you on this and I too am surprised on why they choose to use the duty-free music on their videos.

 

[GivenchyHomme]

Most big houses now use the same music in person and in videos. DJs have become more knowledgeable and selective when it comes to music copyright. I don’t mind, as someone behind a screen can experience the same sensation as someone in the front row. Chanel is the only exception that pays the music rights. I suppose we'll have to take whatever compromise we can get, because it's not like we were ever going to get to hear some of these soundtracks anyways..

 

[99 Percent Polyester]

why the powers that be have not used Death Grip’s Fashion Week album in runways is beyond me

big missed opportunity