#VoxMedia

[voxmedia-billsans45]

Practicing more expressions! (And some TV screen stuff!)

[llaonkimm]

Illustrations for Eater of Voxmedia. A branded article with Hyatt Place, ‹How to Maximize Your Free Time on a Business Trip›.

[biglisbonnews]

The New York Times became one of the first Twitter accounts to lose the verified badge The New York Times’ main Twitter account lost its verified badge. The US publication appeared to be one of the first major accounts to lose its golden tick after the social media platform announced it would start removing not-paid-for verified badges from Apr. 1.Read more... https://qz.com/new-york-times-twitter-blue-verified-tick-elon-musk-1850293100

[weirdfool75]

A small collection of art peaces mainly focused on mah TV headed boi! QwQ And one new Character named Vector! Most of my Vox related stuff will be on my secondary @voxmedia-billsans45 blog!

[radiodustblog]

Looks at Alastor in slight annoyance

Can I unplug that annoying loudmouth now?

Points at Vox

I mean honestly, he has nerves to brag, talk and make fun out of you. He hid like a Pussy in his home and just watched other people fight for their lives. What a coward. At least you tried to kill Adam. You picked a fight with someone stronger than you and sure you might have lost, but every fight, no matter if won or lost, is a win. You learn from it, gain more knowledge with experience. Sure Adam is dead now, but if the exterminator angels fall more next time, stronger Angels will come down, so take all the experience you can get. Trial and error make success, right, Alastor? Even if this gets published and damages your image, they have no right to judge. They didn't do shit to help and that loudmouth is only barking but has no bite. Nothing more but a manchild, trying to get a raise out of you.

Sticks out tongue to Vox and gives him the finger

Get roasted, flat screen.

(@voxmedia-billsans45)

Alastor: Indeed Dear Anon! Indeed!

Angel Dust: Yeah! You go show them Toots!

[radiohusbandaskblog]

I gotta ask Alastor, what is yours and Vox's favorite way to spend time together?

In the company of voxmedia's old shop or my radio station. There's always atleast a tiny screen for Vox to electroport out of. It's not much but it's quality time for us. He works in silence while I do a weekly broadcast.

[countlessrealities]

@voxmedia-billsans45 sent:

[[The following picture presentation is brought to you by the VoxMedia Broadcast Network! (powered by VoxTek!) TRUST US with your entertainment!]]

It was around a few days after the recent extermination attempt by the leader of the angelic army, the entire Hotel has been rebuilt into a larger, more stunning tower-like structure! Demons and overlords are still in disarray. Word has it that the Vees are steadily expanding their large entertainment empire, taking full advantage of the chaos and disarray behind the scenes! Though in a place like the underworld, was chaos NOT to be expected?? One could argue that the "chaotic" nature of this city has sort of..."escalated" since the events of a few days ago, and at present?...Hell's number one multi-media entrepreneur is now broadcasting via his assortment of various Television systems! Vox always enjoys jumping into the spotlight at the most opportune moment.

[["Greetings! WELCOME and TOP OF THE HOUR my fair-yet-maliciously driven malcontents! and welcome back to yet another ENTHRALLING feature presentation! or as WE on the VoxMedia Broadcast Network-(brought to you by VoxTek)-like to call our show--!"]]

[[--"VOX-2-NIIIIITE~!"]] The TV headed mastermind behind VoxTek and the Vees SKIDS across the show-stage! holding his lapel in his fingers with a look of cheery excitement across his on-screen face display! He seemed...a lot more cheery than usual, if one had been mistaken...one could swear he was in FAR great a mood...what in all the seven rings of hell could possibly be the occasion for such pep and energy??

[["But before we begin the show I know your all just DYING to see! our TOP STORY TONIGHT! Alastor the RADIO DEMON! missing in action??...or RAN with his tail stricken between his two twigged tinglers?? STICK AROUND my subservient viewers because this is a story that'll be SURE to know your BOOTS into embers!!~"]]

An awkward silence falls over the duo as Vaggie comes to an abrupt stop, almost causing Alastor to bump into her, as her attention is stolen by the broadcast played on the TVs of a tech store. Normally, she doesn't care much for what the Vees do, unless it affects the Hotel and his residents, but it's hard not to get distracted by something so loud and colourful.

The former Exorcist shoots the Radio Demon a look as Vox mocks him from the screens, and she's ready to swear that she has seen his eye and ears twitch in annoyance.

"Geez, what a douchebag," Vaggie huffs out, rolling her eye. "I don't get why people waste their time with his shit. I mean, the stuff he makes is good, but the guy? Can't stand him."

She and Alastor don't always get along, but he has risked his life for them during the battle. The least she can do is standing up for him.

"And I can't fucking believe that he's acting all smug after you kicked his sorry screen in front of the whole city. Seriously, does he have a death wish or something?"

Alastor cocks an eyebrow in the angel's direction, even if it's hard to say whether or not he is surprised by her open support. It's certainly new, he can admit that much, but he can see where it comes from. Before her banishment, Vaggie's whole world used to revolve around the kinship among comrades-in-arms. The two of them have become that, in a way, during the past year, so it makes sense that she would look at him as such.

"That's one of the many reasons why I don't waste my time with these foolish picture boxes, my dear," he claims, hooking his arm around hers to more easily stir her away from the shop window. "While I find your distaste very relatable, it's best to pay no mind to any of that. After all, the most effective way to deal with attention seekers is to ignore them."

Of course, he's very well aware that he won't go unnoticed. Whenever he's closed to any of Vox's visual devices, he distorts their feed, alerting the other Overlord of his presence. He could avoid it, if he truly wanted to, but deep down he enjoys how he can unsettle his self-appointed rival with his mere presence.

"Come along now. We have actually relevant affairs to take care of. Let them waste their time with this nonsense."

[voxuli]

*jigsaw voice* hello, i want to play a game. before you is an entire cheesecake. if you take one slice, you’ll be released. if you eat the whole thing, the ceiling made of chainsaws will come down and tear you to shreds. live, or eat your fill. the choice is yours.

"This plot was stolen directly from episode 4246 of 'Escape With Some* of Your Limbs!' (© VoxMedia 1983-2024). You'll be hearing from VoxMedia lawyers within three to five business hours."

[bemyesperanza]

Consumerism in Pop Music Through Ariana Grande's 7 Rings

Popular music, which wields significant influence over its listeners, especially the younger generation, is a prominent force today. In this critical reflection, I will employ the social learning theory developed by psychologist Albert Bandura (1977) to explore how pop music fosters consumerism among its audience through identity shaping.

To begin, I will delve deeper into three problems: Social learning theory; pop music, consumerism, and their connections to personal identity.

First, social learning theory, developed by psychologist Albert Bandura as an alternative to behaviorism, posits that individuals acquire social behavior by observing and imitating others. This theory relies on four mediational processes to determine the adoption of new behaviors. (1) Attention, (2) Retention, (3) Reproduction, and (4) Motivation. Observers weigh the rewards and punishments associated with the behavior to decide whether to imitate it.

Second, music possesses the capability to elicit emotions, forge connections, and mold our identities. Throughout our lives, music has also held a meaningful role in molding our sense of self. It starts with the tunes that accompany us during our developmental stages and extends to the songs that resonate with our life's journey.

Third, consumerism is the notion that an individual's overall well-being and contentment depend on acquiring consumer products and material possessions (Hayes). Consumerism has been proven to have a significant relationship with personal identity. Research published in the peer-reviewed journal International Forum of Psychoanalysis indicates that contemporary purchasing decisions are more influenced by a product's psychological value than its practical usefulness.

In 2019, Ariana Grande released "7 Rings”, a chart-topping hit that ignited conversations about materialism within pop culture (Gaillot, 2021). The song stirred up discussions about materialism, a theme as commonplace in pop music as money not being able to buy love. Grande’s got a point that buying things can, unfortunately, feel absolutely amazing. But many people have criticized the idea that material possessions are a form of self-care. “7 Rings” may have been inspired by Grande’s attempt at self-care, but it quickly became a commercial product that reflects and promotes consumerism.

According to the social learning theory formulated by psychologist Albert Bandura, it is clear that the audience can easily imitate the behaviors and attitudes portrayed in songs. Listeners may absorb the connection between consumerism and empowerment in songs like Ariana Grande's "7 Rings."

An illustrative instance of this influence is evident on platforms such as TikTok, where users often employ the phrase "I see it, I want it, I got it" to showcase their material belongings, therefore reinforcing the idea that consumption equates to empowerment. As a result, this notion becomes more entrenched in our society, thereby fostering the fallacy that empowerment is intrinsically associated with shopping. It is imperative to acknowledge that there exist different avenues to empowerment. However, these may receive varying degrees of media exposure, notably in pop music, resulting in individuals remaining oblivious to these alternatives and unable to acquire knowledge from them.

In conclusion, understanding the connection between pop music, consumerism, and identity is essential. It is not a matter of labeling it as inherently good or bad but rather about raising awareness of this relationship.

REFERENCES

Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Prentice-Hall. 

Gaillot, A. D. (2021). Pop music sold us on consumerism, one single at a time. VoxMedia. https://www.vox.com/the-goods/22585138/pop-music-consumerism 

Hayes, A. Consumerism Explained: Definition, Economic Impact, Pros & Cons. Investopedia. 

Introduction to Social Learning Theory in Social Work. Online MSW Programs.  https://www.onlinemswprograms.com/social-work/theories/social-learning theory/ 

The International Federation of Psychoanalytic Societies. Taylor & Francis 

[voxuli]

Vox's first interjection is simply a short bark of a laugh. It's not specifically the idea of the sharks taking nibbles off of sinners, but just the fact that Vepar prefaces it with 'no offense'. After all, he's speaking to the man known for feeding his assailants and other starry-eyed wannabe overlords to his own collection of biomechanical monstrosities, cooing over them in the process. "They're sinners," he says, with a vague wave of his hand. "They can handle it."

He leaves it at that, however, listening again to Vepar talk. It's unusual for someone to be so forward with what they want from him, but hey–he'll take it. Having the terms laid out clearly managed expectations and set clear goals.

Or... he'd thought he would.

But this is not the usual business request, now is it? And to be fair, Vox generally knows that for all his power, he doesn't have a lot that he can offer to a figure of Vepar's status. It's not nothing, since his networks had reach over all of Hell; more than some other Overlords can say.

Vepar is not speaking to him as the CEO of VoxMedia, though. And Vox... Vox is not at all sure what to make of that.

(Yes. A part of him salivates at the very opportunity. Yes, yes, yes.)

His mind circles back around to his own tank at the tower, and he wonders how much the Goetia knows about him. How much he perhaps buys into Vox's public persona. Make no mistake, Vox has encountered more than his share of starry-eyed imps and sinners alike. Normally it's a boost to his ego like no other, but here... A seed of doubt stubbornly persists, forcing Vox to wrangle his tongue back under control.

"That's... That's a.... A very generous offer. Especially to someone you've only just met," Vox says, side-eying his companion contemplatively. "I'm honored, and I truly do mean that. I appreciate the time to think it over." Not in the least to run it by his lawyers, find out a little more about what it meant to be named in the will of a Goetia. Certainly to do a more thorough investigation into the Duke himself.

They fall into a short silence, though it doesn't take long for Vepar to blindside him with another offer.

Well, Vox thinks, this was certainly more than fulfilling his expectations. What had he originally thought–the most interesting thing to happen to him all year? No, he'd lowballed that estimate, it seemed. The whole decade, easily. Maybe more.

"Y'know, I'm not sure if the whole turning into electrical current really counts," Vox says, accompanied by a short laugh to disguise his own unease. And make no mistake–the thought of being entirely organic again makes him uneasy, to his own surprise. A particular discomfort that curls through his wires, not unlike when he knows his cameras and microphones are about to shut off for repairs or upgrades.

"That's, uh–well, I don't want to refuse, but I think I'll need a little time to get warmed up to the idea, as it were." He casts around for something to fill the gap meantime, and on replay of his last couple of moments, his mind latches onto something that he'd initially missed.

And it's a wonder that he missed it, truly. After all, Vepar had just casually implied that the place had a fucking megalodon.

A motherfucking megalodon.

How the FUCK had he missed that little nugget the first time?

Vox's eyes widen to saucers again in realization, and he rounds on Vepar with a desperate enthusiasm that he struggles to contain, bordering on fervent. Because if he has that, he might also–

"Vepar. Fuck. Man–it's not a shark technically but–please tell me you have a heliocoprion. Please please pleaseplease say you have a heliocoprion–"

"Not at all. I never open a can of worms unless I wish to see them squirm," Vepar answered, unable to stop smiling. Vox loved them! He loved them, clearly loved them, and so this was all worth it. "And they do indeed. As far as each shark is concerned, they are in an environment they've always known--the temperatures, the salinity, the types of food, even the angle of the light they perceive. It has been... a complicated bit of magic to pull off," he said, well-aware that he probably sounded like an ass for putting it that mildly, immediately blushing, "but well worth while. They are from different oceans, and some..." He nodded towards a massive shadow far off to the side. "Such as that giant, no longer exist on Earth. Still others never have at all, but evolved all the same in other worlds.

"And just as the sharks experience their own physical realities, so does each guest. Even if there are a hundred Sinners in this particular exhibit, they'll only see the party they come in with; every group will have a staff member with them, of course, to ensure safety--for the sharks. No offense intended, of course, but I don't particularly care if one of my sweetlings takes a bite out of a Sinner for misbehavior.

"Each party is always in their own pocket of reality, so this can be an escape from the... rather crowded confines of Hell, at least for a little while... No, my love. Let go of my finger. Thank you." A disappointed little chain catshark swam up and settled onto Vepar's arm instead. He stroked it idly. "And while I am delighted to share this with you, I won't pretend not to want something from you in return, Vox, nor will I wait to spring it on you at the end. I do not... anticipate my own death happening anytime soon. But if it does? I do not want this place to fall into the hands of just anyone. If you are amenable, I would like you to be my heir. It will take some doing, of course, for me to create the necessary magic that will prove self-sustaining and yet malleable by your will, but I will gladly craft such a thing if you will consider accepting it.

"And that is it. That is all I hope to gain from you: assurance that if I am killed, you will do your best to care for this place. The magic and the funding will be provided for, but the creatures within? They require not just care, but caring. Love. An eye to notice if one is ailing. Even if you were only able to stop by for a brief while each night... it would be a comfort to me, to know that there is someone who understands--inherently understands... how beautiful all of these lives are.

"You needn't answer now, of course. There is much more to see. But I do not wish to--leave you wondering when the proverbial trap will be sprung, or the pitch made.

"While you consider... do you shapeshift? Or would you enjoy being shifted? I thought we might swim with them, take on their forms for a while. Conversation will not be possible, but it might be... pleasant? To taste and feel the ocean as they do."

[weirdfool75]

New wallpaper background for the @voxmedia-billsans45 blog!

[radiodustblog]

Looks at Alastor and Angel after Vox left

Wanna cut all the electricity that goes to the Vees for a few months and smash a few TVs in the stores that Vox sells?

(@voxmedia-billsans45)

Alastor: Sure Why not Darling!

Angel Dust: I-I'll Pass but thanks for the offer there Toots

Angel Dust was nervousness and was scared that if he does that he will get in trouble with Val

[voxmedia-billsans45]

📺⚡️: [[NEWS TOPIC OF THE DAY!]]

[“According to recent sources! Katy Killjoy has been caught live falsely claiming to have the most wealth than any known demon within the city of Pentagram! For those of you who are familiar with this particular news host, I would like to make one Vital clarification as to avoid any further confusion!…”]

[“…Katy…sweetie…just because you WORK FOR ME dose not automatically make you rich. Now get back to work or your fired”]

📺⚡️: [[More news after a word from our sponsor!]]

[voxuli]

♡

From the ♡ meme!

●●○○○ | ATTRACTION (2.5)

○○○○○ | AFFECTION 0)

●●●○○ | INTEREST (3)

○○○○○ | LOYALTY (0)

●○○○○ | TRUST (1)

"Verosika is an artist who never disappoints. It's always a delight when we at VoxMedia get to host her."

[ryanmuir]

Three local New York bartenders Arley Marks of Honey’s in Bushwick, Liza Titova from Baro in K-Town, and Felix Salazar of the Bronx’s Suyo met at the Eater Test Kitchen to create updated twists on the classic cocktail with foraged flavors inspired by the over 22 hand-foraged botanicals used to infuse The Botanist gin.

Photos © Ryan Muir / Vox Media

[televocation]

Lucifer is undoubtedly playing to Vox's interests; he's laying it on thick enough now to catch onto that. All Vox has been aiming to hear from him is his praise, after all, and chucking in his superiority over Alastor is a nice touch. That doesn't mean it isn't working, though; the thought of upstaging Alastor and actually impressing the King of Hell with something he's produced is enticing enough on its own.

"Well, you couldn't possibly be in better hands, Your Majesty!" Vox punctuates his enthusiastic declaration with a wide, swooping motion of the arm and his usual sales-pitch smile. "VoxMedia prides itself on producing the best possible commercial products with the quickest possible turnaround time. I'll just move that to high priority for you."

A stray signal sends feelers out through the phone in Vox's hands; getting in contact with his people is even less than a button-push away. By the end of the hour, he'll have already secured writing and production teams to make this shit happen.

"Why don't we talk fees? I'm willing to be a little generous, given the circumstances, but my advertising doesn't exactly come cheap." It doesn't stop Vox from continuing to make arrangements for meetings and discussions about potential filming dates and involvement of higher-profile actors, but that's only because he's absolutely certain Lucifer will pay. There's evidently not much he wouldn't do for his daughter, after all. "I mean, besides the fees for priority airtime, you've gotta take into consideration the number of people I'd be mobilizing at short notice. Then, of course, you have the post-production costs and hiring half-decent actors... You're looking at a pretty hefty sum, even with my courtesy discount!"

It is, frankly, a situation that puts Vox on top in just about every way except for the compromise of his beliefs. But one little advertisement isn't suddenly going to make redemption possible on a wider scale, and he's all too familiar with compromise for the sake of profit and advantage. If this whole commercial goes through, Vox gets heavy financial backing from Lucifer and (more importantly) another thing to hold over Alastor's head.

Lucifer knew very little about Vox and Alastor's history-- And, in all honesty, he didn't care to know of it. But there was no ignoring the tension that existed between the two of them, especially after being forced to watch Vox's reaction to him on television.

He was not one to watch television, but he had to admit that they were correct: it was quite an entertaining scene to watch. And it provided some form of useful leverage against the Overlord before him.

" The original one that was intended to air quite early on, yes. It was interrupted by the announcement of the Exterminations. And, as I said, it simply doesn't hold up. I only want the best for my daughter's project, after all. "

He hums, easily ignoring the stuttered sounds coming from the man before him. There was no need to point them out. It would certainly ruin their professional relationship.

" I would show it to you, but there's no need to. It's stilted and terribly awkward. " Lucifer leans forward on his cane, grinning up at Vox. " But your expertise are bound to produce something much more suitable and appealing. I trust your judgement on what should be suitable for television. "