Globalization and Cultural Transmission

The music industry is fairly concentrated in power. Or what Adorno claims it to be subscribing to the model of vertical integration. Think a fish tank, with one fish essentially controlling or monopolizing the resources of the entire fish tank from the other fishes. The commodification of popular artists transcends from profiting off songs to the associated images, style and symbols attached through the objectification off the individual persona.

Culture is defined in 2 ways. The first pertains to works and practices of artistic and intellectual activity. The other is defined by a reference to a way of life. The music industry is linked to a form of culture (or subcultures) in its social context. All in while, globalization occurs through transmission of music (from the music industry), influencing culture in a very large scale.

According to Wallis and Malm, there are 4 patterns of cultural transmissions:

1. Cultural Exchange (fairly equal in relations)
2. Cultural Dominance (involves a powerful imposing on a subordinate)
3. Cultural Imperialism (involves a exploiting off the resources from dominating)
4. Transculturalization (involves worldwide marketing network and spread of technology, from transnational corporation established)

Now if the music industry is vertically integrated, which out of the four patterns of cultural transmission is being practiced with the occurring of globalization? In other words, is it possible for globalization to occur with cultural relativity? Or is cultural representation in globalization (socially and in the music industry) a mere facade, veiling the exoticizing, and exploitation that occurs systematically? While we enjoy Bob Marley and he sings of "One Love" and Knaan who sings of "Waving Flags", who is really profiting, and asserting power, controlling the images we internalize be transmitted? Do we really believe in diversity in music and culture, or are we disillusioned by the standardization that occurs....that we have all become, really passive?

What does your 'cultural' popular music and the 'dominant' popular music have in common? Chances are they both subscribe to a particular genre. Because the mass consumes a specific type or category. Therefore, does the supply influence the demand, or the demand influences the supply chain? Or both?  =S