Back in the 90s, I started picking up familiar beats, rhythyms, and lyrics (usually, the chorus) of older songs being used in new songs. Hip-hop artists did this the most. It bugged me then.

I forgot about it, there was still some original music being written by the few good bands that were out there. The demise of musicianship had begun, but genuine artistry still shone through and fought against showmanship and commercialism. I did not give up hope.

A few months ago I heard two classic songs worked into one, I could never listen to the whole song all the way through but I think it was “Werewolves of London” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” I couldn’t decide if it was a cover of two songs at once, some kind of weird tribute, or just a declaration of the death of creativity. I hate to admit this, but I thought of Huey Lewis and I almost said out loud, “Where is that old boy? Is he really still breathing?”

That wasn’t the end of the exploitation, the rip-off of classic music. During the back-to-school shopping season this year, JC Penney ran an ad on tv using the song “Don’t You Forget About Me” by Simple Minds.

I wanted to scream like Charlie Brown when he misses the football.

But the final blow was this - “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” being used in a stain remover commercial. Stain remover! This song went from a timely affirmation to an industrial moniker. There is something soooooo wrong with that.

Pat Benatar was the tough cookie of the 80s, I worshipped her. Loved her like I love Stevie Nicks (worth noting, I’ve heard “Go Your Own Way” in car commercials). When I heard these commercials, I felt like my childhood anthems were being ripped of authenticity and getting slapped with a cheap sign that read “SELL OUT” in neon letters.

Who are these people, ad execs, media brainstormers, business people masquerading as musicians who decide to use the songs of my generation to sell their products? I’m afraid they’re my peers. I’m afraid they’re people my age, with my experiences, but the flip side - meaning nothing is sacred, anything can be forsaken if it increases revenue. The B side to honest artistry, if you will.

Sigh.

I know there are worse things happening in the world.

I could be projecting my disappointment at seeing art and music programs removed from schools due to lack of funds. I could be misdirecting my anger about the shallowest, most violent music in decades reaching my kids. I could be reeling about the the unethical things that have been done for money.

All of those things are possibilities.

There are certainties too, and they are shiny, tenacious ones. As a result of raw, natural, unbridled emotions, people will inevitably create new moving, beautiful things. Like my son and his buddies can start a pick-up game anywhere, not just on a field, so people will paint, draw, sing and write, for no other reason than they have to do it. That is the spirit that defies even budget cuts, greed, copycats and sycophants.

That’s the A side, and even if it gets covered or exploited, it can’t be taken away.