Muzak Bonds People and Environments
Modernism was initially rejected because its forms and methods of organization were too distant for a Fordist and hegemonic culture. Late modernists and postmodern designers tried to engage people with gestures, programs, and surfaces that attempted to speak to and reflect an expanded culture. These moves, however, were too static and short-lived and ultimately failed to sustain relevance.
Gestures require difference and shock-value in order to be effective. Neither condition can be sustained indefinitely. Muzak continues to have lasting value as an engaging force precisely because it is neither static or physical.
Muzak helps modernism by providing an element of accommodation against a background of abstraction. It bridges melody (individuality) and monotony (the abstract field). Muzak helps people bond with commercial environments and guarantees behavioral patterns among consumers and workers. Muzak humanizes mass production, helping employees whistle while they work. Without Muzak, modern architecture would have turned to the contrived humanitarianism and cuteness of postmodernism much more quickly.