"I used to go to record stores and browse around"

Sure, but the problem was, you were buying them mainly for the cover. In early 90s, with CDs at around ~$20 a pop without preview (and gas at around $1.10 per gallon) , it was a VERY conscious decision. Tapes were around $15.

J&R store in NY had many "opened" demos. You would nicely ask store "curator" to preview CDs and he would escort you to CD listening "station" with headphones smile

But that only supports my statement. Why would you buy an sound alike underdog for $20 if you have the real McCoy?
In the last 25 years internet leveled plain field, with all the lookalikes sounding in unison, there is only so much average human ears can take before they can take no more. Like after spending 2 hours in all-you-can eat buffet, even fancy and exotic food would taste same. Perception...



P.S. Thinking about this, music, after 30 years buying-to-own music is still about $1 a track.