Americans Turn to "Recession Pop" Amid Economic Struggles
- Young adults are increasingly turning to music as a way to escape the pressures of tough economic times.
- Forensic musicologists highlight the rise of upbeat tracks reminiscent of the era of pop stars like Katy Perry.
- This trend illustrates the important role of music in providing emotional relief during challenging periods.
Despite a seemingly robust economy, many Americans are gravitating towards a genre known as "recession pop," a musical trend that echoes sentiments of financial vulnerability and frustration. The viral TikTok song "I'm looking for a man in finance" exemplifies this cultural shift, highlighting a growing sense of discontent among listeners. This resurgence of recession pop, which originally emerged during the Great Recession of 2007-2009, reflects a collective effort to process the economic challenges faced by society. Experts like Charlie Harding, co-author of "Switched On Pop," describe this trend as a "curatorial act," where individuals seek to make sense of their experiences through music. In contrast, Joe Bennett from Berklee College of Music recalls the upbeat, dance-centric tracks of the past, such as those by Katy Perry, which provided a temporary escape from harsh economic realities. These feel-good anthems served as a form of emotional relief during tough times, illustrating a historical pattern where consumers gravitate towards happier music during economic downturns. Current economic pressures, however, are palpable, with many Americans feeling the strain of rising prices and dwindling savings. A recent Bank of America report revealed that over half of Generation Z, aged 18 to 27, feel they do not earn enough to sustain their desired lifestyle. This demographic's embrace of recession pop underscores their struggles and skepticism towards the economic landscape they have inherited, reflecting a broader societal sentiment of disillusionment.