Once, even in small towns, people might learn about offbeat music at mom-and-pop record stores or from a locally owned radio station that reflected the taste of a knowledgeable music director. Now, as both of those species dwindle, it's becoming harder -- especially for the millions who don't live near a city with plenty of radio options and well-stocked record stores -- to discover music that doesn't come straight off the assembly line.
"Big box" retailers such as Wal-Mart and Best Buy are
selling more music, but offer less variety, which means bad news for musician who can't compete with Britney or Faith. Support those
local independent music stores!