Ask A Music Critic: What Is The Best Decade For Music?
- Music critic Steven Hyden argues that the 2000s were the best decade for music due to iconic albums and a rich musical landscape, although he acknowledges personal bias influenced by his age and the shift to streaming in the 2010s.
- The 2010s were characterized by diversity and accessibility, with genres like K-pop and EDM gaining global traction, facilitated by streaming platforms that democratized music consumption.
- Public and generational opinions on the best music decade vary, with different age groups favoring different decades, highlighting personal preference as the key factor in determining the best decade for music.
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Welcome to another installment of Ask A Music Critic In today’s installment, we delve into one of the most contentious and fascinating questions in the world of music: which decade reigns supreme? From hip-hop’s dominance in the 2000s to the electronic dance music (EDM) explosion in the 2010s, each decade has brought its unique flavors and innovations. But which one stands out as the best? Let’s explore the arguments and see what music critics have to say.
The 2000s: A Time of Innovation and Experimentation
Music critic Steven Hyden from Uproxx recently weighed in on this debate, arguing that the 2000s were the best decade for music. He cites a plethora of iconic albums from that era, including The White Stripes’ "White Blood Cells," Jay-Z’s "The Blueprint," and Kanye West’s "The College Dropout" among others. Hyden notes that this period fostered strong connections with solitary albums, which remains his preferred format. He highlights the rich musical landscape between 2000 and 2005, calling it “a span just that rich.”
However, Hyden also acknowledges his personal biases. He admits that his positive feelings about the music of the early 2000s are influenced by his age during that time. He suggests that a person in their mid-20s from 2014 to 2019 might believe that the last five years is the best stretch of music in the past two decades. Additionally, Hyden acknowledges that the cultural shift from listening to specific records made by particular artists to more generalized listening on curator-guided streaming platforms might favor the 2010s.
The 2010s: A Decade of Diversity and Accessibility
On the other hand, the 2010s have been marked by an explosion of new genres and styles. Teen pop, K-pop, EDM, and trap music all emerged during this period, catering to a global audience like never before. While some critics argue that this diversity came at the expense of album cohesion, others see it as a liberating force that allowed people to explore a greater variety of music than ever before.
Hyden’s preference for albums over playlists is a common sentiment among many music enthusiasts. However, the strength of the 2010s lies in its ability to democratize music consumption. With streaming platforms, people can access a vast library of music without the constraints of traditional album formats. This democratization has opened up new avenues for artists and fans alike, making music more accessible and diverse.
Public Opinion: A Generational Perspective
But how do the general public and different generations perceive the best decade for music? A YouGov poll conducted among over 17,000 Americans reveals some interesting insights. The 1970s and 1980s top the list as the best music decades, with 21% and 22% of the vote, respectively. These decades are often associated with rock and pop classics from artists like Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, and Michael Jackson.
However, younger generations have different opinions. Generation Z (born in 2000 or later) puts the 2010s (17%) and the 2000s (16%) at the top of their list, followed by the 1980s (14%) and the 1990s (12%). Millennials (born 1982 – 1999) tend to favor the 1990s (23%), while Generation X (born 1965 – 1981) thinks the 1980s had the best music.
Reddit's Take: A Decade-by-Decade Analysis
On Reddit, music enthusiasts have shared their own perspectives on the best decade for music. Some argue that the 1960s were the peak of musical evolution, with legendary bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones dominating the scene. Others favor the 1970s for its eclectic mix of soul, funk, blues, metal, and outlaw country. The 1980s are also popular, with many fans citing its iconic status in the world of pop and rock.
The '90s: A Decade of Cohesion and Innovation
Interestingly, rap and hip-hop fans often place the 1990s as the best decade for music. The '90s saw the rise of iconic artists like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., and Nas. Music critic Harvilla argues that the '90s were the most cohesive decade before the internet atomized everything. This cohesion, combined with the innovative production techniques and lyrical depth, makes the '90s a compelling case for the best decade.
Conclusion: It’s All About Personal Preference
In conclusion, there is no definitive answer to the question of which decade is the best for music. Each decade has its unique contributions and innovations, and opinions vary widely depending on personal taste and generational perspective. Whether you prefer the experimental sounds of the 2000s, the diverse offerings of the 2010s, the classic rock of the 1970s, or the hip-hop of the 1990s, there’s something for everyone in the world of music.
Ultimately, the best decade for music is a matter of personal preference. As we continue to explore and enjoy the vast library of music available to us, it’s clear that each decade has its own story to tell, and each one has shaped the music landscape in its own unique way.
References
- Uproxx: What's The Better Decade For Music: The 2000s Or The 2010s?
- YouGov: Best Decade For Music Among US Adults
- Reddit: What Was The Best Decade For Music?
- KTLA: Music Critic Says This Was The Best Decade For Music
