Adorno and Horkheimer argued that the way in which cultural items are produced (music in this case) are comparable to the way in which mass consumer goods are produced on a vast scale in manufacturing industries.
What this means when talking about the music industry is that artists and their products are being made on a mass scale to please the consumers. This would be linked to the idea of 'mass culture' where society is exposed to the same media sources and so share the same ideas and values. Furthermore, when music is produced it is to please the majority in society and those will buy it. This is similar to industries like the fashion industry for example; there will be a 'trend', brands will produce this product on a mass scale and a majority will buy it.
The musicians become part of this 'omnipotent' system.
Pseudo-individuality
Pseudo-individuality is the idea that because there are various and 'different' products, we are unique if we buy them and will be different from the 'mainstream crowd'. However, in reality we are all buying into the same commodities. This links to the music industry as it can be said the music industries create various types of music (think of different genres e.g alternative), and so those who consume these 'alternative' music products will feel an eccentric sense of self, when really they are buying into what everyone else in society is.
Applying the theory to musicians
One Direction
One Direction are an example that can be applied to Adorno and Horkheimers theory. 1D's music is typical pop and so is their image, they are the generic 'good looking boy band that is aimed at young girls and teenagers'. ID merchandise includes dolls, clothing and even toothpaste. 1D's image and music fits the idea of 'mass culture' and because they fit common ideas and values, they make a lot of money.
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