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By HELEN SHUMILIN
Staff Writer

Many factors in life slowly disable people from having the free time to pursue their deepest interests. All forms of art, from visual display, to the sound of music, slip away from the list of priorities our lives bring upon us. The recession we are facing has veiled individuals in society with a gloomy outlook and annoying struggles. Amazingly, those people who were too busy to enjoy art and music are now presented with free time and a spirit longing for happiness.

Music frees people from their sorrows by lifting spirits, taking the mind off certain events in life, or simply making one feel understood. A recent study has found that sales in the entertainment industry have increased significantly since this economic downfall. Concerts are being sold out faster, bars are full, clubs are full; people are living a little, instead of sulking at home.

Of course, there are still many firm believers in the classic "one hundred pennies makes a dollar" slogan, yet the trend still travels.

It is very important for people to understand that lack of money is not as devastating as lack of hope, and hope is created through lyrics and sound waves if it cannot grow on its own. Independent artists are at quite an advantage in these times, for people’s hobbies are definitely becoming a strong part of their lives.

Honestly, very few people despise music so the audience market is huge. Toronto is a city blooming with talent, ambition and an impressive understanding of starting out small. A no name band playing at a bar can touch the hearts of our sensitive stressed society, and later flourish by hear-say in the local scene.

Inevitably, recession makes it much easier for independent artists to start the first step in their long road to recognition. This is ironically achieved through the nationwide attentiveness of stressed out music lovers, and the entertainment scene which always longs for cash. Signs adorn the sidewalks of downtown with welcoming words stating “Come in for a good time", "Check out this new band", "$3 drinks!", "We’re open late", "Come support your local talent!” These attention grabbing blurbs bring in crowds, and small groups of people, who just want to crack a smile and unknowingly assist in the production of an artist’s success.