Raguirre, you are absolutely right. "Audiophiles" are not "normal" or "average" in any category of music involvement. We are a diverse group like any other group. That means good, bad and indifferent, fringe and mainstream.
None the less, when someone is "pigeon-holed" as being an audiophile, a certain idea is struck in the observer's mind about that person and what they are like. Over-spending, over-critical, gear-obsessed, etc... are generalizations that come to mind. This does not fit ALL "audiophiles", but it may not be far off ON THE AVERAGE.
So it is for ANY "generalization". That is why "generalizations" are commonly accepted. There is more than just a grain of truth to be found in the statement, so it becomes socially accepted as being "true". It is commonly accepted by those that don't know better or lack exposure / first hand knowledge about the subject. Anyone that is intimately familiar with the subject can PROBABLY shed light on it, typically dispelling most of the assumptions. This does NOT level out how the AVERAGE person perceives the situation though. They simply lack the intimate knowledge to know any better or fully understand the situation and diversity involved.
Just as there are talented rappers / hip-hopper's, musicians that play "metal", etc..., they are often overlooked due to being "categorized". That does NOT mean that they are NOT part of that specific sub-culture or genre of music AND bring the associated "baggage" along with them. While it may be "dangerous" or not "politically correct" to label people / groups as a whole, we all have to prove ourselves as individuals before anyone is going to take notice of us. As such, many hardcore rappers / hip-hoppers that have stood out from the crowd have done so by promoting less than "socially acceptable" points of view or mannerisms. This has only further reinforced the "thug mentality" of rappers / hip-hoppers as a whole.
As an example, take a look at Public Enemy for their stance on racism, NWA's ( Niggers With Attitudes ) racial and "thug" commentaries, Ice T's "cop killer" anthem, etc.. All famous groups that became famous over "negativity" and "thug mentality". Due to this fame and exposure, the AVERAGE media educated person, who lacks exposure to other talented artists with differing points of view, tends to view ALL rappers and hip-hoppers as being "thugs". These groups WERE recognized as "stand-outs" from the crowd i.e. "individuals" but not for "positive" reasons. The "hollywood rappers" ( Will Smith, etc..) are a slightly different story, as they have used their skills to further their careers and NOT remain part of the sub-culture that they started off with.
Keep in mind that the Beatles and Stones were also percieved as "thugs". That's why "rock" music and its' performers received the "labels" that they did back then. That is why i made the comments pertaining to this being a situation that will change from generation to generation. It is the same shoe, just a different foot. Sean
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