Join music journalist Tomás Mier, writer Brittany Spanos, and cultural critic Rob Sheffield as they dissect some of the most criticized songs, including 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Bitch.' They debate whether the 'worst songs' label still holds weight in a world dominated by TikTok's viral pressures. The trio also explores how live concert behavior has shifted post-pandemic and reflects on the evolving perception of music, revealing how once-derided tracks can transform into beloved favorites over time.
The discussion highlights how platforms like TikTok pressure artists to prioritize viral appeal in songwriting, sometimes sacrificing artistic integrity.
Concert etiquette has deteriorated post-pandemic, emphasizing the need to remind audiences of respectful behavior during live performances.
The concept of 'worst songs' is subjective and evolves over time, showcasing the fluidity of musical tastes and cultural perceptions.
Deep dives
The Irony of Modern Phone Usage
The discussion highlights the ironic nature of contemporary phone usage, where individuals attempt to disconnect from their devices in social settings, only to find technology integrated into the experience, such as QR codes for menus. This situation emphasizes a paradox where, despite efforts to be present with one another, technology continually reasserts itself in social interactions. The introduction of 'us mode' by a cellular provider aims to counter this ironic trend by encouraging people to reconnect with each other while reducing their reliance on their phones. This initiative underscores a growing awareness of the need to balance technology use with in-person connections.
The Pressure to Go Viral on TikTok
Artists today face significant pressure to create music that goes viral on platforms like TikTok, affecting the way songs are written and promoted. The example of Leah Kate's song 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Bitch' illustrates this trend, as many listeners have criticized its cleverness, deeming it an overreach of creativity. TikTok has become a key driver for music success, where snippets of songs can take off rapidly, influencing how artists approach their craft. This viral culture places immense expectations on creators to produce songs specifically designed for social media traction, sometimes overshadowing their artistic integrity.
Concert Etiquette Post-Pandemic
The conversation touches on the changing dynamics of concert etiquette, particularly among younger audiences who may be attending live shows for the first time after pandemic lockdowns. Some individuals have reportedly forgotten how to behave respectfully at concerts, leading to disruptive behavior such as talking during performances or trolling opening acts. This trend has sparked discussions about the importance of maintaining respect and decorum during live performances and how the pandemic has altered social norms. The return to live music post-pandemic necessitates a reminder of proper concert etiquette to create a better experience for performers and audiences alike.
Re-evaluating Worst Songs of All Time
The topic of identifying the 'worst songs of all time' is revisited in the context of changing musical tastes and cultural perceptions. Songs like 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Bitch' and others previously ridiculed are examined for their capacity to provoke strong reactions, indicating a complex relationship between music, nostalgia, and memory. As time passes, songs once deemed terrible may undergo re-evaluation, as seen with past hits that have cult followings today. This evolving discourse reflects the fluid nature of music appreciation and the societal shifts that influence what is considered good or bad in popular culture.
The Influence of Viral Sensations on Music Careers
The episode concludes by examining how viral hits affect the careers of artists, using Leah Kate as a case study to illustrate the complexities of navigating the music industry. Despite mixed reception for her work, including 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Bitch,' Kate has experienced notable growth in her social media following and streaming numbers due to the publicity surrounding her music. The emphasis on virality raises questions about the sustainability of such fame and how it impacts an artist's trajectory in the long term. The landscape of music promotion is shifting, necessitating that artists adapt to both the advantages and drawbacks of social media influence.
From "Blurred Lines" to "Twinkle Twinkle Little Bitch," we look at some of the worst songs ever - while also questioning whether we can really be sure of "worst songs" in 2022, when the canon and our own tastes are in a constant state of reevaluation. Plus, a look at how pressure to go viral on TikTok may be creating bad songs, and why behavior at concerts is worse than ever post-pandemic. Tomás Mier, Brittany Spanos, and Rob Sheffield join host Brian Hiatt for the discussions.
