Why Do Older Generations Criticize Modern Music?
As a 66-year-old, I have witnessed firsthand the evolution of music and the changing tastes of generations over the decades. The journey of music from its educational roots in the 1950s to its more visual-centric focus today has seen significant transformations that have left some demographic groups feeling a sense of disconnect.
During the period from the 1950s to the 1970s, music was often a product of formal education and years of practice. Schools heavily emphasized the arts, leading to a more sophisticated understanding of music among listeners. This grounding in musical education not only raised the standards but also discouraged those deemed as “imposters” or “fakers.” For instance, during my fourth-grade year, I began formal musical education, setting a solid foundation for my appreciation of music.
Today, music videos play a crucial role in the entertainment industry, often prioritizing visual aesthetics over the complexity of the music itself. This shift has led to a decrease in the overall depth and enjoyment of newer music. It’s rare to see people delve into music more than a few months old, as the quick consumption and fleeting nature of today's trends can make music feel less enduring and less fulfilling over time.
The Cultural Shift in Musical Preference
The criticism of modern music by older generations is not a new phenomenon. Each generation tends to view the music of the next with a certain level of skepticism and disapproval. For example, the GI and Silent generations found the music of the Baby Boomers to be inferior, much like how the Lost Generation viewed the music of the Roaring 20s and the Blues. This generational gap in musical taste has been a recurring pattern.
From Beethoven's early works being questioned for their musicality to the enduring nature of some composers' works, history has shown that public opinion on music can shift dramatically. However, this does not necessarily mean that new music is inherently worse or better than old music.
Factors Influencing Musical Preferences
Many factors contribute to the divergence between the tastes of older and younger generations. One significant factor is the age-related solidification of musical preferences, which typically occurs around the age of 30. After this point, people tend to maintain a consistent musical taste, finding it increasingly challenging to adapt to new styles or genres.
The advancements in technology and the rise of digital music platforms have also played a role in shaping modern musical preferences. With the abundance of music available online, it’s easier for younger generations to discover and consume new sounds without the same level of formal education or cultural context as previous generations. This can create a sense of "purity" and "depth" in the older generation's perception of traditional music forms.
Challenging the View: Is Modern Music Really That Bad?
It's crucial to recognize that while older generations may express dissatisfaction with modern music, this does not mean all modern music is bad. Some albums, like Stanley Clarke's 'Journey to Love' and 'Fragile' by Yes, continue to sound as fresh and compelling half a century later. These examples demonstrate that good music transcends age and era, highlighting that musical quality is not solely determined by production techniques or years of tradition.
Ultimately, the appreciation of music is subjective and varies widely. While older generations may find certain aspects of modern music less enjoyable, this does not negate the potential for new music to resonate with younger audiences and contribute to the evolving landscape of musical creativity and expression.