I think this article takes a deeper look at how the digitized media is enabling consumers, rather than arming them with distraction and greed. I find it extremely interesting how the ability to consume infinite works influences users to pursue more intricate, niche-type interests. However, I think this partly stems from the constant harassment of the media by shoving popular culture into every outlet, day-in and day-out. For example, when you turn on the radio, you hear the same music playing on the top stations. They want to reach the largest audience possible and, therefore, find this to be the solution. However, the article by Chris Anderson evaluates a future predicament these media outlets might be facing. The overuse of popular music, TV, and movies forces users to find other types of entertainment to avoid boredom.
This quote from the article struck me, in particular: "When you think about it, most successful businesses on the Internet are about aggregating the Long Tail in one way or another." As mainstream media has established a normalcy of "greatest hits", it is crucial that innovative companies find ways to appeal to the true interests of users. In my opinion, popular media is more of a cultural expectation rather than an interest. You endorse popular media so that you can participate in conversations with friends, co-workers, or classmates about films, music, or books. However, with the accessibility the online sphere provides, users are going to begin to use outlets such as Rhapsody to endorse their true interests. In the next decade, being "different" rather conforming to the social norm may be the new cultural trend.
Here is a link that I found helpful that proceeded to sum up the article: Long Tail Summary.
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