Exactly my thoughts. Payola was alive and well until Internet distribution took over. Music Journalists were the "Social Influencers" of their day. They were

Exactly my thoughts. Payola was alive and well until Internet distribution took over. Music Journalists were the "Social Influencers" of their day. They were given front row seats, overnight stays at 5-star hotels, lavish meals, and flights on private jets with touring bands. Without Music Journalists, and their access to print, there was just no means to getting the word out. They could make or break any artist.