Beato also opines that there is no actual artistic engagement in mainstream pop/rock/country. It's formulaic and worse closed to "outsiders". In that light i think he's right.
Take "Rich Men North Of Richmond" for example. 100% off the reservation, no producer, no label, no major national "drop" and it slipped through- and was wildly successful. Arguably the lyrics are simple yet clever, and the performance is authentic. It was refreshing.
I blame the conglomerate music industry for the crap being produced and aired today. For sure there are excellent musicians and brilliant lyrics being made today- but they are not easily accessible.