Music Through Generations

By Emily Landwehr

The music preferences of 2008 and 2020 McFarland High School Students.

Today, there are countless aspects of society that divide people. Politics, world views, socio-economic status, clothing style...the list is endless. However, there is always one thing that remains steadfast and able to unite a generation despite such divisions: music. To determine which artists have had the most effect on Gen Z MHS students, a poll was conducted asking students which artist defined their adolescence and who they believe is the best musician right now.

The type of music that has been able to unite people across such divisions has arguably changed over the past years. In a Spartan Spotlight article published in March of 2008, these same poll questions were asked to MHS students, but the responses between 2008 and 2020 show that Gen Z has different musical preferences than the Millennials did when they were in high school.

49% of respondents in 2008 answered that *NSYNC was the musician that defined their adolescence, an American boy band composed of Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass, while today’s students responded with Justin Beiber and Adele, polling at 20.8% and 19.8%, respectively. Miley Cyrus was a close third with 18.8%; Drake and Kesha tied for fourth place with 15.8%. Contrarily, in 2008, Britney Spears and “Spice Girls” tied for second, both polling at 18%.

A similar difference appeared in the responses to the second question as well. Tied for first is Billie Eilish and Post Malone, both earning 27.3%. Harry Styles ranked third with 20.2%. Eilish is popular for her dark pop and unconventional style; Post Malone is recognized as having a blend of styles between hip-hop and R&B. In 2008, 18% of students responded that “Boys Like Girls” was the best musician, an American rock band known for their pop and alternative style. Polling at a close second was Carrie Underwood and Jack Johnson, both with 14%.