Final answer:
Common pitfalls for a student of popular music include overlooking the impact of free riders on musical quality, misjudging the influence of popular culture on society, and undervaluing music's potential to drive social change as well as issues around cultural appropriation.
Step-by-step explanation:
One common pitfall for a student of popular music is the tendency to overlook the influence of free riders who contribute to the proliferation of 'bad music'. The free-rider problem is one where individuals consume more than their fair share of a common resource, or pay less than their fair share of the cost of a common resource. In the context of music, this might manifest in ways that devalue musical culture by perpetuating low-quality content.
Another pitfall is the failure to understand how popular culture informs larger societal norms and behaviors. Examples of popular culture through music, fashion, or media can significantly shape public opinions and lifestyle choices, impacting everyday life and societal values.
An additional pitfall is not appreciating the potential of music to drive social change. Music has the power to mobilize communities, influence political agendas, and promote solidarity across diverse groups. However, along with its power for positive impact, there is also the issue of cultural appropriation in music, which is tied to broader themes of social inequality and power dynamics. Understanding these complexities is crucial for students of popular music.