Value and perception | Juwon Ogungbe

A well informed colleague of mine expressed a strong opinion about the cultural value of some artists who were known for their influence on the lexicon of a musical genre. He felt they were more impactful and significant in the scheme of things than artists from the same culture who toed paths of book learning that blossomed into a heightened commercial acumen.

When we had the conversation, I was clear in my mind about my own aspirations. Looking back in reflection a couple of decades later, I see things differently.

Some artists who could be described as ‘forces of nature’ are sometimes born and bred in locations where they have access to pathways of exceptional skills development. Others are self made.

The proof of the pudding, as always, is in the eating.

A great spiritual leader and teacher once said similar things about well informed theologians. The truth is what it is.

Originally published at https://juwonogungbe.com on July 21, 2020.