Why People Say New Music Sucks: A Theory on Perspective

It’s a refrain heard across generations: “Music isn’t what it used to be.” Whether it’s a lament about overproduced pop hits, a critique of lyrical shallowness, or nostalgia for the “golden days,” many people find themselves questioning the quality of modern music. But is today’s music really worse, or is there something deeper at play? Let’s explore the factors behind this enduring sentiment.

1. The Nostalgia Factor

One of the biggest reasons people criticize new music is nostalgia. Music from our formative years is deeply tied to emotions, memories, and experiences. Songs from the past often represent a simpler or happier time in our lives, making them seem inherently better.

Science backs this up: Studies show that people form strong emotional connections to music they heard between the ages of 12 and 22, a period when our brains are particularly impressionable.

2. The Explosion of Accessibility

In the past, only the most polished, commercially viable songs made it to the mainstream. Today, platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and TikTok make it possible for anyone to release music. While this democratization has brought incredible diversity, it’s also led to an overwhelming amount of content.

The result? Listeners are bombarded with both exceptional and mediocre music, which can make the latter seem more prominent. Without careful curation, the gems can get lost in the noise.

3. Changes in Production and Sound

Modern production techniques are often criticized for over-reliance on technology:

• Autotune is frequently blamed for “stripping authenticity.”
• Compressed audio makes songs louder but can sacrifice dynamic range.
• Many hits follow similar chord progressions or rely on repetitive hooks, which some find formulaic.

However, these same techniques have enabled groundbreaking innovations in genres like electronic music, hip-hop, and hyperpop. The divide often comes down to taste and expectations.

4. Short Attention Spans and the TikTok Effect

With the rise of social media, music is increasingly designed to grab attention within seconds. Platforms like TikTok favor short, catchy hooks that can go viral. This trend has led to:

• Shorter songs (many under 3 minutes).
• A focus on the “hook” over complex arrangements or storytelling.

For some, this shift away from traditional song structures feels like a loss of artistry. For others, it’s simply a reflection of evolving consumption habits.

5. Selective Memory

Every era of music has its share of forgettable, formulaic hits. The difference? We tend to only remember the classics.

When people compare today’s hits to the legends of the past—The Beatles, Prince, Aretha Franklin—it’s an unfair matchup. Decades from now, we’ll likely look back on artists like Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, or Taylor Swift as defining figures of their time.

6. Cultural and Generational Gaps

Music evolves with culture, reflecting the values, struggles, and technologies of the time. Older listeners may feel disconnected from the themes of modern music.

Similarly, younger generations may not resonate with the ideals or aesthetics of older music. These differences aren’t about quality—they’re about perspective.

7. The Role of Algorithms

Streaming algorithms tailor playlists to individual tastes, often reinforcing existing preferences. While this can help discover new favorites, it can also create an echo chamber where listeners miss out on the broader diversity of contemporary music.

For those who feel disconnected from new releases, actively seeking out different genres or emerging artists can be a game-changer.

Final Thoughts: Is New Music Really Worse?

The idea that “new music sucks” says more about perception than reality. Every era produces incredible art alongside mediocrity. The challenge today is navigating an unprecedented volume of content to find what resonates.

Instead of lamenting the past, try embracing the present. Explore genres you’ve never listened to, give emerging artists a chance, and remember: the classics of tomorrow are being created today. Who knows—you might find your next favorite song.