Meaning: Wanda Jackson, a prominent musician known for her contributions to the development of rockabilly music, made this statement reflecting on the music industry's evolution. In her observation, she highlights the shift in the management and guidance of artists' careers over time. To fully grasp the significance of Wanda Jackson's statement, it is essential to delve into the historical context of the music industry and the changes that have occurred in the management of artists' careers.

In the early days of the music industry, particularly during the emergence of rock and roll and rockabilly in the 1950s and 1960s, the dynamics of artist management and career development were notably different from the present. At that time, the industry was characterized by a more decentralized and organic approach to career management. Artists often relied on their own initiatives, along with the support of their immediate social and musical circles, to navigate their careers and secure opportunities for performances, recordings, and promotions.

The absence of formal career steering mechanisms that Wanda Jackson alludes to is indicative of the relatively independent and self-driven nature of artists' career trajectories during that era. Artists were responsible for forging their own paths, establishing connections with industry professionals, and seizing opportunities through their talent, perseverance, and networking skills. This period was marked by a DIY (do-it-yourself) ethos, where artists took on multiple roles beyond performing, such as booking their own shows, negotiating deals, and managing their public image.

In contrast, the contemporary music industry has undergone significant transformations in the management and guidance of artists' careers. Today, the role of artist management and career steering has become more formalized and structured, with the involvement of professional managers, agents, publicists, and other industry professionals dedicated to overseeing and advancing the careers of artists. This shift can be attributed to the increasing complexity and competitiveness of the music business, as well as the expansion of the global music market and the proliferation of digital platforms.

The contemporary music industry operates within a more centralized and specialized framework, where artists often rely on dedicated teams and support systems to navigate the complexities of the industry and capitalize on opportunities. Artist development, strategic career planning, brand management, and marketing have become integral components of career steering in the modern music landscape. Additionally, the advent of digital technology and social media has redefined the ways in which artists connect with their audiences, manage their online presence, and cultivate their fan base, further influencing the dynamics of career steering.

Furthermore, the influence of record labels, talent agencies, and entertainment conglomerates has expanded, shaping the trajectory of artists' careers and contributing to the professionalization of career steering in the music industry. These entities often play a pivotal role in shaping artists' commercial viability, market positioning, and exposure through extensive resources, industry connections, and promotional strategies.

In conclusion, Wanda Jackson's statement sheds light on the evolving nature of career steering in the music industry, signaling a transition from a more decentralized and self-driven approach to a structured and professionally managed model. The historical context of the music industry, along with the contemporary developments in artist management and career guidance, underscores the transformative dynamics that have reshaped the ways in which artists navigate their professional journeys. From the DIY ethos of the past to the strategic management and support systems of today, the evolution of career steering reflects the intricate interplay of cultural, technological, and commercial forces within the music industry.