Normalize Pop 2024

Dec. 10, 2023

Between the early 2010's and now, Pop music has become stigmatized within the music community. Pop music is often looked at as being basic and bland and therefore not good. Basically, music for people who don't like music. I have come to realize that this is not inherently true and that this thought process is actually harmful to the progression of Pop as a genre. Leaving minimal room in the conversation for Pop music, dismisses the artists that are attempting to build upon the genre and push it in new directions. 

Through my research, I have found that a lot of Pop songs have nasty bass lines that draw me in just as a Funk song would. It's the mix of high tempo, and contrasted high synth sounds that transition it into Pop to me. Upon first listen, some of the songs in this playlist may not sound like Pop. This may be true technically, but please keep in mind that I added all of these songs for a reason. Contextual relevance within this playlist or the genre as a whole and incorporating my top artists who have dabbled in Pop-like tracks are two secondary factors that interplayed with my decision-making. 

I have curated a playlist of Pop songs that I believe can turn anyone into a 'Pop Fan'. It includes a mixture of well-known and liked Pop songs from the 2000's, old classic Pop songs from artists like Michael Jackson and Madonna, and newer pop songs with funk and disco elements. It is a wonderful mastermix of high-energy good vibes. 

This playlist can be listened to on shuffle (not smart shuffle, which will add in other songs) or straight through. I have organized it so the first 50ish songs are modern Pop songs and the latter 20ish songs are old classics to showcase where Pop has come from. On shuffle, you get a delightful mix of the new and the old, and straight through you get context and a distinct separation. I will note that there is a transition between 'Alien Superstar' By Beyonce and 'Off the Wall' by Michael Jackson that is really cool and showcased on a straight-through listen, so look out for that. 

This playlist is about 4 hours long, but don't let that intimidate you. It is good background music or music for when you need to clean, cook, or be productive in an active way. You will be moving while listening, I promise. I hope you all enjoy and any and all feedback is welcomed. Happy listening!