Russian singer and composer Yuri Loza has declared that censorship is not the primary problem facing modern musicians in the music industry today.
In comments reported by Russian news outlet National News Service, the veteran artist stated that the biggest obstacle for performers today is the struggle to promote new music and present songs to an audience.
Loza, best known as the author of the hit song The Raft, noted that rapid developments in technology have made music creation accessible to anyone. He said that even artificial intelligence neural networks are now capable of writing and performing songs, but reaching listeners has become extremely difficult.
He explained that media structures and commercial outfits are currently fully staffed with their own designated roster of artists. As a result, securing access to high-profile events or major broadcasts on central television has become impossible for independent performers trying to break through.
Industry changes and advice
Loza added that a musician's raw talent is no longer the primary component required to achieve professional success in the contemporary music business. Instead of relying solely on musical ability, he advised young artists to find influential patrons who can offer support and help them break onto the professional stage.
Loza is a prominent Soviet and Russian singer, songwriter, and composer who achieved widespread fame in the late 1980s. Over his long career in the entertainment industry, he has become well known for his candid public commentary on modern Russian pop culture, the music industry, and broadcast media.
Criticism of television talent shows
His latest remarks follow previous criticism directed at television producers over the choice of pop singer Vanya Dmitrienko as a mentor on the hit reality competition The Voice Kids.
Loza publicly questioned Dmitrienko's appointment to the panel, stating that the only reason producers selected the young musician was his current commercial popularity rather than his artistic experience or credentials.
The Voice Kids is a long-running television singing competition where young contestants perform before a panel of celebrity mentors who evaluate their performances and guide them through the tournament.
