Today, Explained The song of the summer is DEAD
Jul 12, 2024
Join music aficionados Charlie Harding, co-host of Switched On Pop, and Brittany Spanos, a music writer for Rolling Stone, as they challenge the very existence of the 'Song of the Summer.' They dive into the evolution of this cultural phenomenon, contrasting past hits with today’s fragmented music scene. From the effects of streaming on listener habits to the resurgence of long-time artists at the top of the charts, their discussion offers a fresh perspective on music's changing landscape and its connection to cultural moments.
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Disconnection from Recent Hits
- Listeners may not connect with recent "songs of the summer" due to age, genre preference, and political polarization.
- Our musical tastes peak between ages 14 and 24, and country music has become increasingly political.
History of Song of the Summer
- The "song of the summer" concept dates back to the 1800s, with newspapers discussing seasonal songs.
- Billboard's Hot 100 chart in 1958 solidified the concept by officially tracking song popularity.
Fragmented Listening
- Modern music consumption has become fragmented due to streaming and personalized playlists.
- This shift has led to a decline in album sales and a more diverse range of popular music.