PBS's Idea Channel is a new YouTube channel hosted by Mike Rugnetta that "examines the connections between pop culture, technology and art." On their latest episode, Rugnetta proposes the idea that Hatsune Miku is a more authentic pop star than Lana Del Rey because people can empathize with her more. He notes that Del Rey tries to be indie while still appearing constructed, while Miku sidesteps that by being honest with her construction.

Being a short video meant to encourage discussion, the episode doesn't unpack the idea as much as I'd like. Rugnetta could have easily pointed out how Miku being constructed to appeal to fans is the same as what Del Rey does, or how the fact that many people use Vocaloid to make their own music creates a closer bond between the user and the avatar representing that software. Still, it's an interesting idea to think about, which is I suppose the point of the channel. Do you agree that sometimes a fake can be more real than the real thing?

[Thanks, Jonathan Holmes!]