I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that we're in a MTV generation now. Back in the 60's and 70's when the bands that we talk about as being the "greats" (i.e. Zepplin, Jimi, The doors, etc...) were around, the only way to get exposure was by making freaking awesome music and image was secondary at least. Nowadays, the gap between talent and image is getting smaller and smaller, and in some cases irrelevant cuz u've got jerks like Britteny spears who are basically strictly selling their image and have NO MUSICAL TALENT. I hope that wasn't too off topic and ya'll find it to be relevant lol.