My Nostalgic Bête Noirs: Unforgettable Hits I Hate
Being a die-hard music enthusiast, I've stumbled upon numerous songs that hold significant sentimental value to many but have earned a permanent spot in my 'hated' playlist. Let’s dive into some of these nostalgic bêtes noirs that I can't seem to stop hating despite their massive popularity.
“Lean On Me” by Bill Withers
When “Lean On Me” was a constant hit on the top 40, I couldn’t get enough of it. The song's childish and unimaginative chord progression, which goes upwards and then down again, is frustratingly unoriginal. The melody is described as primitive and sing-songy, which is enough to turn even the most tolerant listener away. Furthermore, the lyrics are often mockingly referred to as 'positively uplifting for illiterates,' which adds to my disdain for the song.
Recently, whenever I hear someone singing this song, my blood pressure spikes, and my annoyance reaches an all-time high. It demonstrates how funny it is when someone fails to respect the music that once brought enjoyment. My hate for this song is a perfect example of how personal taste and nostalgia can be at odds.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Until recently, my disdain for “Bohemian Rhapsody” was rooted in its obnoxious, ostentatious, and pretentious nature. I even admitted my confusion about some of the words in the song. However, what changed my perspective was a YouTube video of a girl performing her version on a public piano in an airport. Her rendition was captivating, and I even managed to recall some of the lyrics. Despite this, I still refuse to listen to the original recording. It's a reminder that music can change our minds, or it can drive us further away, depending on how it's presented or performed.
“Feelings” byputc
When I first heard “Feelings,” it was simply a stifling, maddening experience. The only person who could make this song work was Carol Burnett, and even then, it was a stretch. The lyrics are overly generic and repetitive, which is difficult to stomach. However, if the song needs an explanation, it's a testament to how it can irritate even the most discerning of listeners.
“Unchained Melody” and “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” by The Righteous Brothers
“Unchained Melody,” originally released in 1965, was a song that once brought me immense joy. However, that joy was short-lived as it became a staple in radio stations and soundtracks, particularly in the “Ghost” movie (1990). The repeated airplay made it impossible to forget, and as a result, I developed a deep hatred for this tune. Similarly, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” which holds the record for the most-played song of the twentieth century, is now too familiar and overplayed for my taste. It’s a stark reminder of how even the most well-loved songs can become irrelevant due to overexposure.
“Turn Me On” by Kevin Lyttle
When I was younger, “Turn Me On” was a song that always left me perplexed. I was never sure if the singer was a boy or a girl, and the lyrics seemed too intense for my young mind. Now, as an older listener, I still can't shake off my dislike for the song. The catchy tune, despite my best efforts, keeps getting stuck in my head, and that's something I can't stand.
It’s fascinating how music can evoke such strong emotions, and in my case, these emotions are often negative. Nonetheless, these songs are irrefutable parts of the cultural tapestry, and while I may never like them, they continue to make their presence known in my life.