The word popular comes from the Latin, 'popularis' a legal term meaning 'belonging to the people'. Gradually over time the word’s meaning has changed from one of low, base level vulgarity to its modern day meaning; of which the exact definition has been widely argued over by contemporary theorists, but is usually recognised as being something that is widely favoured by the people. Popular music is neither a genre nor a synonym for good but a reflection of the contemporary climate in which it is being produced. Some argue that contemporary music is commercially orientated and profit is the primary endeavour rather than artistic integrity, however it is also said that although this is ultimately the desired result no artist begins to learn their trade in the belief they will be commercially successful, and that their style of music is actually influenced by cultural and personal taste. Pop music is both a commercial and cultural product of the society it was produced in.
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