Words From The Streets - Interview With Tony Thorne

Slang is created with the use of informal words and expressions, which are not expected to be part of a standard dialect or language. It’s used in different contexts, including SMS messaging, social networking sites, and spoken communication.

Has slang changed in London since the early part of the 20th century?

Tony Thorne, a linguist, and slang specialist at King’s College London, and author of ‘The Latest Youth Slang’ says, “some slang words (called ‘vogue terms’) depend on their newness for effect, so go out of date very quickly, but some slang (the word ‘punk’ lasted from the 17th to 20th century) stays in the language for a long time. I don’t think the concept of slang will be forgotten, even if the words themselves change”.

Street slang has become part of our culture, but have you ever wondered where it came from? Well, it might surprise you to know, that street slang first emerged in the 16th century, in London’s Docks, when soldiers and seamen used it to communicate. But the language wasn’t popularised until the 18th century, when pick-pocketers used it to communicate with each other secretly.

By the 19^th century, market traders took on cockney rhyming slang, introducing words like ‘bread and honey’ (meaning money) or chewy toffee (meaning coffee).

A slang term which has changed its meaning is “bimbo”. Today, it’s used to describe an attractive blonde woman, who’s not so smart. However, in the 1920s, bimbo actually meant tough guy.

Here’s a term which comes from the 1930s, ‘Honey cooler’.  No, it doesn’t mean keeping a jar of honey cool in the fridge it actually meant a kiss.

Similarly, if someone said “look at you, all ginned up,” you might consider it as an insult. Labelling you as an alcoholic, in the 1940s, the meaning of this term was dressed up.

Fast forward to the 1950s with ‘cloud 9’, a term meaning ecstatic; this is a common expression, “I’m on cloud 9”. It’s a term, which is sometimes still used today.

The 1960s was a ‘bummed out era, when many people used this expression to let others know when they’re depressed. “I’m so bummed out man! Wish life wasn’t so difficult”. The 1970s was full of bunny girls, no, not the playboy kind. Back than, ‘bunny’ meant a beautiful girl. “She’s such a bunny!”

The 1980s, the era when the slang term ‘bangin’ didn’t just come out of nowhere, and invade our vocabulary. It was a term that was often used by working class teens, which meant amazing and cool. Today, this term still holds the same meaning; “That club was bangin!”

British hip-hop wasn’t mainstream until the 1980s, when London Pose, Derek B, Rodney P, and the Demon Boyz, hit the studio. They were four of the most influential artists of British hip-hop. They all had one thing in common; all of them were born and bred in London. Each one of them paved the way for UK rappers in the mainstream today.

Whitney Folks, 24 years old and working in the media industry says,

“Hip-hop music and TV have influenced slang greatly. I personally think it’s American music and television that has the influence, from the way the talk and use their western slang, its new and interesting for everyone who hears so we use it in our language”.

Alongside these 80s legends, was Tim Westwood, now a BBC radio DJ. Westwood bought UK hip-hop to the mainstream, by hosting a show called Night Network in the late 80s. With Night Network, he pointed out early hip-hop culture in London, and broadcasted up and coming UK rappers.

Seona Scott, a freelance journalist says:

“A lot of the media effects how we speak like, with hip-hop they use certain words to describe money, the word ‘skriller’ or ‘squart’ used to describe money, and now I’m hearing a lot of young people say, “awww I need to get my skriller, I need to get my squart”. So it does kind of, have an influence”.

Artists like Miss Dynamite, N-Dubz, and Dizzie Rascal have since followed in the footsteps of these rappers, who bought UK hip-hop to life all those years ago. In the song, ‘Miss Dy-na-mi-tee,’ she says,

“Use 2 spend my time blazin’ (smoking weed) lazin’ days away.”

And Dizzie Rascal in his song, ‘Where’s The G’s’ says,

“All I see is bare poop on TV.”

In many ways, this article has proven that US/UK hip-hop is responsible for the development of slang. For example, artists like Snoop Dogg, who made terms like ‘Fo’ shizzle mah neezle’ (for sure, my homie!) popular in the US.

Rebecca Morris, a Media teacher at a Sixth Form College says,

“I think they have an influence – although this is an American influence, and lots of teenagers are very influenced by all things American.”

She believes hip-hop and R&B music is where slang is most heard, and teenage fans will try their best to emulate what they hear.

Fast-forward to today, and some of the same terms are still used, like ‘blazin’ and bare’. However, language changes everyday. New terms emerge from every corner, and what’s cool today, may not be cool tomorrow.

“We are much more tolerant of different identities, different ways of behaving today…We also tend nowadays to look for new fads, fashions to celebrate, so the media, for example, happily features new language rather than trying to avoid, criticise or censor it” says Tony Thorne.

Language has a tendency to change, this transformation most likely occurs, when there’s a lack of equality due to the geographical separation and social obstacles. London has a deep and complicated relationship with slang. Different dialects dominate particular areas of London. For example, cockney rhyming slang is associated with East London, in the same way you probably associate street and urban slang with the north side. 

London is a big cosmopolitan city, its population is made up of people from all over the world. Putting this into consideration, language is more likely to change, and make an impact on individuals.

“Slang is very creative, it uses all the techniques of poetry, so there’s nothing essentially wrong with it…Slang has its place in our culture and our language, just like ‘posh’ language, legal language”

Do you think hip-hop music and TV influence slang?

“Yes, but they don’t usually create slang, just spread it from the street or the club where it originated to other potential users in other places. They also help to give it glamour and seeming importance,” says Thorne.

According to The Guardian in 2010, over 200 schools in England, failed to meet the GCSE target. Only 35% of students, were able to achieve five GCSEs at A*-C grade including English. Could slang be responsible for this outcome? Back in 2010, studies in Canada prove students who spend time on social networking sites, like Facebook/Twitter fail their English exams. Almost 35% of students, at Waterloo University in Canada, fail to achieve the minimum requirements.

Seona is indecisive when asked; do you think slang ruins the English language? – Will it ever be forgotten?

“Yes and no, for ruining the English language because, a lot of people are becoming lazy, especially when it comes to texting, and some people do the short format” she says.

An English teacher at St Marylebone School in Westminster, Jonathan Goldstein says “…I’ve got no problems with slang at all…certainly in spoken language.” He continues, by emphasising the essentiality, of children knowing how to use formal and written English. They speak slang among themselves all the time, they speak slang to me from time to time.”

The characteristics of people, who use slang, are best described as an individual, who likes to follow trends, and also at the same time be a trendsetter.

Teens and young adults are often associated with using slang. It’s defined, as a secret code, a way for people to communicate spontaneously with little anxiety, that someone uninvited is eavesdropping.

If a term is frequently used, ‘rinsed out’ and spread to a larger community, it’s no longer considered to be slang.

Whitney Folks uses slang regularly, however, she does restrict herself to using it, especially when it comes to her line of profession as a Media Assistant.

“When I see adults use slang, I do find it quite weird…if an un-cool person uses slang or adults who are meant to talk properly, uses slang it’s kind of sad. It’s like they are trying to be cool” says Whitney.

The 24-year-old goes onto say, people who aren’t meant to use slang, look as if they’re trying too hard; which never looks too good.

25-year-old Seona Scott, uses slang regularly; however, she makes it clear, that she only uses slang with her friends. “it’s just you know…it’s ours” she says. Seona returns back to formal English when she’s around her parents, and others.

“When I hear my parents, say one or two slang words it makes me laugh, but then its like, they kind of understand where I’m coming from…It’s just a bit cringey” says Seona.

What’s next for slang?

“Almost impossible to predict, recently the big trend in the UK is for ethnic terms (first black, then Asian) to mix in with English slang to produce ‘multiethnic youth vernacular’ – some say it’s a new dialect which may influence or oust standard English in coming years” says Tony Thorne.

What’s the moral of this story? Well, to put it in a few words, be prepared for change, you can be hit with a new slang term at anytime, or even a completely new type of slang, which explains why it’s so creative and different.

OK, now its time to wrap up this slang extravaganza. Here are five slang terms of 2012:

            Swag (style/flavor/cool) still a UK / US favorite and staying strong for this year “I have Swag for days.”

             ‘Dench’ – Awesome/cool “That’s Dench man!”

            ‘Yolo’ – self-explanatory and abbreviated as “You Only Live Once!”

            ‘Leggoo’ – Leave “Nothing left to do here, leggoo!

             ‘Gassed’ Excited “I’m so gassed about tomorrow!”

The Truth About Love Is Finally Revealed: P!nk The Truth About Love

The truth about love remained untold until now! The diva of soft rock/pop P!nk released her version of true love on September 18 of this year. The Truth About Love introduces nineteen tracks that demonstrate Cupid the love doctor’s theory on the magical existence we call love.  Her opening track, Are We What We Are, seems to challenge the conventional stereotype of an individual who’s either head over heels in love, or completely the opposite. The song is designed to cry out for help, whilst sitting in a comfortable chair losing yourself in the music, while P!nk plays the role of an agony aunt.

Are We All We Are describes the different characteristics every individual can hold, as well as suggesting how every one of us are able to be a different influence whilst in a relationship. The Truth About Love is a canvas of experiences, a roller-coaster ride of emotions. The album exposes levels of intensity that relate to love. A variety of themes are explored, for example, the paradox of a love/hate relationship, which is detailed in the the song True Love. This newly released album has something for everyone. Fun and funky songs to hit the club like Blow Me – One Last Kiss and Here Comes The Weekend, which includes a not-so-surprising collaboration with Eminem.

P!nk reveals herself as a lady who’s definitely in touch with her feelings, as she gives us an emotional ride with Is This Thing On?, Run, and a few others that follow. Her latest album encourages (as well as reflects) a split personality of one’s characteristics – especially someone who’s head over heels in love. It’s almost as if the singer is describing the notion of being torn, wanting and not wanting, an I love him/I love him not situation.

Although this combination creates a powerful outcome, it isn’t quite enough, as it seems as though there is a cry for help. Her struggles and experiences are  something millions of people all over the world can relate to. In my opinion, it’s the first time (since her previous album Funhouse) that the voice of an independent woman has once again tried to speak with Is This Thing On?, Beam Me Up and Try. However, spirits are still held high. She reminisces on the Good Old Days, and still looks for the beat; the question is, is P!nk listening, and looking for the beat of her heart with Where Did The Beat Go? Let’s not fail to mention the reference of being a mother to Willow, and her going on to express how much her life has changed in five years, since her last album release in 2008. Is it time to face The Truth About Love? To overcome your struggles, emotions, fears and experiences and come out of it not only as a better, stronger person, but also feeling better about yourself.

Me, Myself & I: Alienated, Isolated & Liberated

What do you see, when you look at me? At times, people only see a chair with four wheels. Wheels that I use in replacement for my legs. So, if you think about it, I’m just like you. The only distinction is we walk differently. This is the story of a woman, who encouraged people to look beyond her disability, and recognise her as a woman with capabilities. That woman is me!

 To celebrate the Paralympics 2012, I want to keep the spirit alive by holding onto the Paralympic torch up high, just like the Statue of Liberty in New York City. OK. I’m not as talented as the Paralympic contestants Here I am presenting an interview with myself. Yes, you read correctly! Myself and those who surround me. It’s never easy living with a disability. Of course, people who aren’t wearing the same shoes as the ‘challenged’ individual, often see it from a biased perspective. At least from my experience, “You’ve got it all” they’d say. “There’s always someone around to do things for you”. This is coming from people, who are complete strangers to the day-to-day life of a disabled person. Such a stranger, that they’re completely unaware they have the wrong end of the stick. We, as disabled individuals actually crave to pursue a “normal” life. That is, if normality is even in existence. What is ‘normal’? The way you look at it doesn’t matter at all. Able-bodied people are no different to the disabled. In fact, they are also challenged. Challenged by their perspective to change, and understand that disabled people shouldn’t be looked down upon. It’s funny; I never felt like I was below anyone – as if people who could walk were better than me. 

At a young age, I never took my disability seriously. I never realised living with Cerebral Palsy (CP) could be so challenging. What was it that made my disability invisible? My academic career began in a special needs school in central London. I spent 13 years of my life completing primary, and secondary in the same building. It was easy for me to ignore my condition. Wherever I turned, everyone was wearing the same shoes as me. There was no reason for me to feel out of place. It was almost as if I was hiding in my shell. 13 years later, that shell cracked open. It was then, I realised I entered the ‘real’ world. The moment I stepped into a college that consisted of able-bodied students; for the first time, I felt alienated, isolated, let alone scared. I was out of my comfort zone! I’m not going to lie; at times I did feel like a towel being hung out to dry. The older I got, the more I began to realise this wasn’t something to ignore. People looking at you left, right and centre. I was, and sometimes still am, a shy character. 

A voice inside of me told me to stand back, and just watch. Of course, I didn’t go through college and university without any friends. There is a selected few that noticed my personality and disregarded the four-wheeled chair I use on a daily basis. I had a chance to let my personality shine through, and that’s what made me stronger! “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger!” it’s true, I stand by that saying everyday. Those are the people, who know the ‘real’ me, the people I keep in my circle of trust! I’m overwhelmed with happiness to be surrounded by people, who inspire, motivate and has given me the strength to go on with my life. They are the reason as to why I am able to show the world what I am capable of. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. When you’re surrounded by people, who sincerely believe in you to the moon and back; you know you can do anything you set your mind to! I was fortunate to see that mystical shimmering white light at the end of the tunnel. My family and friends have led me through dark pathways of life, and continued to motivate me, just so I could make it through college, and finally become a university graduate in Media studies during the year of 2009. 

Once I held that diploma in my hand, I knew l didn’t need any further proof or reasoning to believe in myself. I felt I accomplished a lifetime of challenges. Of course, it wasn’t always fine and dandy, but who said life would be? There have been ups and downs in my life. People have seen the rise and fall of this disabled woman. – So much so, I almost gave up on my dream of becoming a successful journalist. Another thing on my list of accomplishments was to see my name on the by-line of an article. Over a year later, I found myself giving all my energy in pursuing my ultimate career goal. Catch 22 put the icing on the cake; it was my birthday all over again! I felt liberated, overwhelmed with a ton of emotions that’s impossible to canvas on a blank sheet of paper! I’m on a journey that was inconsistent in the beginning. Now, it’s slowly and smoothly continues together with my family, friends, and best of all my determination to be the best that I can be! 

Being disabled is nothing to be ashamed of. We all come in different shapes and sizes. It's what makes us special. If we were all the same on earth; life would be boring. Be proud to be different! When you look in the mirror, believe that you're different for a reason. God gave you a life so that you can accomplish what you can. No one is expecting anything more. Ignore the people that stand in your way!

I consider my disability a gift. If God takes one thing away, something in return is given back. Don't decline that gift; embrace it with your heart and soul!

War Horse Movie Review

Steven Spielberg, director/producer of many classics including four of five Indiana Jones movies, Saving Private Ryan, and Schindler’s List, creates another withWar Horse. The story of Joey, a one of a kind horse that starts life separated from his mother, begins as he is noticed by young Albert Narracott, mesmerised by Joey’s beauty and innocence. Owners are soon found, when Joey is sold to farmer Narracott through auction. 

Vulnerable Joey is now in good hands with the Narracott family. Farmer Narracott relies on his son Albert Narracott (Jeremy Irvine), to be the primary carer of Joey. Young Albert doesn’t disappoint as he raises and educates Joey to the best of his abilities. Needs are met, and the Narracott farm is taken care of. In time, this relationship blossoms and you really begin to understand the strong connection between the owner  and his horse.

Just as Joey starts to get used to his relationship with Albert,  Joey is sold to a British army commander. This bond is broken but never tainted. Joey begins his journey as a War Horse and so WWI commences.   Separation is a key element within War Horse. It’s the one thing that brings the characters and audiences together. This heartfelt and courageous title presents a roller-coaster experience of emotions. Years fly by, and farmer Albert is now a British soldier fighting the Germans.

There are many examples in this movie that not only remind us animals have feelings, but just how human-like Joey really is. An extreme close up of War Horse Joey’s eye shows a reflection of a little girl coming in. However, expectations turn into disappointment and loneliness, as it’s noticed that Albert Narracott isn’t the one behind that only door of hope. This is an example of  characters and audiences uniting and sharing the moment. This scene, along with many others, is what brings Joey’s human-like traits to centre stage.

The war could be seen as a metaphor; a connotation to life’s many tests for Albert and Joey. This helps the audience to not only understand how, but why this production was given a courageous, epic, and yet powerful title. After all of the adventures Joey has encountered, you`re really left wondering if Albert and Joey will ever reunite. Will fate allow these two to walk the same path?

If there’s one significant concept that Spielberg brings to the table, it’s the value of friendship and love. As well as showing the importance of determination and fighting spirit. Audiences are no doubt going to find out they’re able to relate on several occasions during 146 mins of screen time. Join Albert and Joey on their epic journey of friendship, companionship and adventure to find out their destiny!

The Payne Of Redemption: A Look at Videogame Addiction

Article first published as The Payne Of Redemption: A Look at Videogame Addiction on Blogcritics

The videogame industry plays an important role within a person’s life. This isn't something that can be generalised or stereotyped. A hardcore gamer may even consider it an insult, if I was to say; “…plays an important role within a child/teen’s life.”


In the videogame world, every player gets infinite chances of coming back from the dead. A mistake can easily be undone each time the reset button is pressed or the game is restarted from the last checkpoint. If only the same philosophy applied to life! Let's take some time to uncover the darker element to videogaming. 

Videogames open the vortex to another world; have another atmosphere, one that encourages an escape from reality. Of course, these days it’s no surprise, videogames look ridiculously realistic as they use the latest animation technology and the graphics engine of game platforms.

The latest technology leaves a plethora of opportunities for game developers — add a captivating storyline, and boom! You have yourself a game that can’t be put down! Blizzard’s World Of Warcraft has been used as a classic example of addiction in the past. To be honest, I don’t see the attraction myself, but that's neither here nor there. Today, games such as Rockstar Games’Max Payne 3, and Naughty Dogs’ Uncharted franchise alongside others, deliver an excellence sense of realism, as well as movie magic.

Douglas Gentile, a professor of videogaming addiction, and media violence. His latest thesis alongside three other experts in the area--Edward L. Swing, Choon G. Lim, and Angeline Khoo-- appears in the piece, "Video Game Playing, Attention Problems & Impulsiveness: Evidence Of Bi-Casualty."  For the piece, Gentile and his team, carried out a study involving a large number of children where it was discovered that those who dedicate a majority of their time to videogame play are more likely to experience attention problems and impulsiveness.  It was found that excessive gameplay is associated with some attention problems; however, it's still important to consider that age, sex, and race can also lead to the same road.

Have you ever wondered why a person becomes an addict of anything? It’s an escape from reality! Even so, it’s not an excuse to give in, and let the game (in this case) play you. A young adult might say, “It helps to relieve stress while playing a first or third person shooter," and it does as it helps them escape, and the research bears this out.

Psychologist, author of many titles including Aggression & Violent Behaviour (2007), as well as an assistant professor at Texas A&M International University, Christopher J. Ferguson, echoes the theory. In my interview with Ferguson, he states  “…We see four main motives why kids play, and adults are probably not too different: Simply to have fun, to relieve stress, as a social activity with others, and as something to do to kill time when they’re bored. The social motive is particularly interesting given the stereotype of gaming as a solitary activity, but it’s becoming increasingly clear most people use games as a social activity.” 

Videogaming addiction has yet to be labeled as a formal diagnosis in the medical industry. However, Ferguson brings a brand new Monopoly game to your table — he primarily blames the interference game play causes in the average person’s life; school, work, quality family time, and other fundamental responsibilities. It’s almost as if excessive gaming can lead to a person completely forgetting about the natural foundation of life.

“Videogame addiction is not 'yet' a formal diagnosis. However, as a more general rule, to the extent that video game playing interferes with other life responsibilities, (work, school, family, health, etc.) We’d probably say that the gaming behaviours have become pathological…do you persist in excessive game playing despite the rather obvious costs (failing grades, crumbling marriage, whatever) of that game play,” says Ferguson.

Speaking of addiction, can gameplay detect drug use? Again according to Ferguson, and other sources videogame addiction helps medical experts detect drug abuse.  “…Some individuals are probably prone to addiction in general, so I’d expect to see at least some small correlations.”

Ferguson believes videogames reveal a sense of achievement, and offer the opportunity for own to become their own hero within their own lives. This is a burning factor within all of this, which cleverly shows not only, why gamers play, but also offers the suggestion that game play doesn’t have to be an addiction if you don’t want it to be. It’s down to you, and your perception on life.

Videogaming has its perks, it’s a window to another aspect of your life, the stress free version, of course. Just like Christopher Ferguson said “It’s really fun!” It also can benefit a person’s visual perception.

Don’t be afraid to play the game, just control yourself and not just Max Payne, Nathan Drake, or Lara Croft. That’s the remedy to knockout this potential addiction!

Review: Beats By Dre Studios

Article first published as Review: Beats By Dre Studios on Blogcritics.

The time has come; the moment you’ve all been waiting for is here. Monster Beats By Dre sent me to music heaven and back. It’s been a long time that I’ve put on headphones that made me say “OMG, this is amazing!"

Today, I entered a local tech store and experienced the comfort and the realism of sound with Monster Over The Hear Studio headphones. These sleek, and stylish headphones are embedded with comfortable padding that give your ears a breath of fresh air.

Since this was an in-store demo, I wasn’t able to see what was in the box. However, if you’re dying to know, head over to YouTube and watch the unboxing of this bad-boy. The Studio range come in three colours; black, red, and white, all as stylish as one another.

 

I've got to be honest with you - the first time I put these Monster Studio headsets on, I wondered how headphones such as these are capable to produce outstanding base. 

 

It was amazing! It honestly felt like you were in your own studio with Dre right beside you. If you’re like me, and can’t go a day without listening to music, these headphones will become your best friend.

If I had one complaint about these headphones, then it’s the following: sound leaks - sure these headphones provide amazing sound quality. However, sound leaks can ruin a masterpiece. These leaks provide nothing but disturbance for your surroundings.The Studio Over The Ear range is ideal for the semi-professional studio producer and DJ.

If you want the sleek and pro look then Studio is the way to go. To hear every beat pounding in your ear is music to dedicated listeners'. Beats By Dre: Over The Ear is personally suited to the users' ears, for the headphones can be adjusted to your liking without any hastle, and they sit comfortably on your head. The packaging is just as beautiful, as it comes with a durable black case decorated with the 'B' emblem, and a microphybic cleaning cloth to keep the shine on going.

Of course, every product can have a downside. I'm sorry to say Monster left an enormous, and painful footprint on the price. That's right, these profesional headphones come at a hefty cost. If you want to own headphones with Dre's signiture, it'll cost you £200 ($322). Even though this will be an expensive investment for your ears, it's definetly worth a consideration!

Gone But Not Forgotten: Post-Mortem Success In Music

Article first published as Gone But Not Forgotten: Post-Mortem Success in Music on Blogcritics.

Death is the nature of life. The passing of a popular musical artist is, it seems, a motivating factor for a significant surge in record sales. Hearts around the world recently filled with sorrow and devastation upon learning of Amy Winehouse’s death on July 23. Since then, sales of her music have soared.
The world was shaken in much the same way on June 25, 2009, by the death of Michael Jackson. Within hours of the news breaking, his music began selling at an especially rapid pace. According to the U.K. newspaper The Telegraph, on the day of his death, both Amazon.com and U.K. retailer HMV reported a significant rise in record sales. On July 1, 2009, The New York Times reported three albums in particular — Thriller, along with two greatest hits compilations, Michael Jackson Number Ones and The Essential Michael Jackson — brought big numbers to the table, combining for a total of 422,000 copies sold in the week following his death.

Now, we see the same pattern re-occurring in the wake of Amy Winehouse's death. Her albums are once again in high demand both on retail shelves and at digital outlets. This pattern is by no means new, however.

For example, the BBC has reported that 12 days after John Lennon's murder on December 8, 1980, the former Beatle's song, “(Just Like) Starting Over,” topped the U.K. Singles charts. Others cases to consider are of Nirvana and The Notorious B.I.G.: In the week following Kurt Cobain's death in 1994, sales of Nirvana’s albums totaled 777,000 copies, a boost of over 150 percent. And Biggie's album, Life After Death, which had already been scheduled for release when the rapper was killed, ultimately sold 689,000 copies in its first week on the market.

One can’t help but wonder what inspires such post-mortem sales surges. Do consumers attach a new-found sentimental value to the deceased artist's music? Is it a matter of them feeling guilty for not having paid enough attention to the artist before? Are they just buying the music in order to understand what the big deal was all along?

Both of Winehouse's studio albums are currently represented on the iTunes 200 charts, with Back To Black at number 18 and her debut LP, Frank, at number 94. On the Amazon.com Top 20 Album Chart, Back To Black is at number two. Why do some people only appreciate an artist’s contribution to music after he or she has died?

"The death of the artist usually draws heavy media coverage," Eb Rainbergs, a lawyer in the entertainment business, explained recently to CBC News, "which either rekindles a fan's interest or sends others on a shopping spree to see what made that person so well liked in the first place."
Even though the music industry plays a major role in this selling game, it's not the only one to consider. Other industries — those of film, television, and video games, among others — produce merchandise and memorabilia that generates profits. Whether it's in the form of CDs, MP3s, concert films, biographies, documentaries or t-shirts, as loyal fans we almost see it as a duty to purchase everything that bears the name of a late musician we so idolize. It's a way of denying the truth — to accept that the artist is gone.