Originally Posted by Bloke
I mostly agree, but on the other hand: why do you care so much about what other people think about your taste in music?
I've noticed a certain cross-section of modern hard rock/metal fans practically exhibit signs of an inferiority complex by getting extremely defensive about any band they like that achieves any sort of commercial success. In this respect, said success does change the perception- not only of the detractors as you've stated, but of the fans; it's no longer "I like Band X", it's "I've liked Band X since before they were big!". Or something along those lines. There's always a caveat... the post which I've quoted having one of "I like Band X, so what if they're mainstream?". I think simply saying "I like Band X, peroid" would suffice nicely, and if any music snob has anything to say, they can fuck off.
I think I sort of forgot my point, because I lost an hour somewhere and can't find it, but I think it goes along the lines of "anyone who has to get defensive as to why they like a band or artist needs to be less self-conscious; and to heed their own advice and just like the music". By getting defensive, you end up letting popularity change your perception of the band, and that's the irony.