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What is the difference between underground music and mainstream music?

Underground music is a term used to describe music that is not part of the mainstream music industry. This can include music from a variety of genres, including rock, hip hop, electronic, and folk. Underground music is often characterized by its DIY ethic, with artists and bands self-producing and distributing their music. It is also often associated with a sense of community, with fans and artists coming together to support each other.

Mainstream music is the opposite of underground music. It is music that is popular with the general public and is widely available through commercial channels such as radio, television, and streaming services. Mainstream music is often produced by major record labels and is often associated with a more polished and commercial sound.

There are a number of key differences between underground music and mainstream music.

* Audience: Underground music is typically consumed by a smaller, more niche audience. Mainstream music, on the other hand, is consumed by a much larger and more diverse audience.

* Production: Underground music is often produced on a smaller budget and with less polished production values than mainstream music. Mainstream music, on the other hand, is often produced with a larger budget and more polished production values.

* Distribution: Underground music is often distributed through independent channels such as record stores, websites, and social media. Mainstream music, on the other hand, is often distributed through commercial channels such as radio, television, and streaming services.

* Promotion: Underground music is often promoted through word-of-mouth, social media, and local events. Mainstream music, on the other hand, is often promoted through traditional marketing channels such as advertising, radio, and television.

* Style: Underground music is often more experimental and eclectic than mainstream music. Mainstream music, on the other hand, is often more derivative and predictable.

These are just some of the key differences between underground music and mainstream music. In reality, there is a lot of overlap between these two categories, and there are many artists and bands who fall somewhere in between.

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