So Far…
The 2020s (so far) have seen music shaped by social upheaval, digital innovation, and genre fusion. Here’s an overview of key trends, artists, and movements in music from 2020 to 2024:
🎵 Headlines of the 2020s in Music (So Far)
1. The Rise of TikTok as a Hitmaker
TikTok has emerged as a dominant force in song discovery, catapulting tracks like “Savage Love” and “abcdefu” to global fame—often before traditional radio picks them up.
2. Pandemic-Era Releases Reshaped Listening Habits
With live shows canceled, artists like Taylor Swift (folklore, evermore) and Charli XCX (how i’m feeling now) leaned into lo-fi, intimate home productions, while streaming and surprise releases became standard.
3. Genre Lines Blur Even Further
Hyperpop, trap-country, Afrobeats, and indie-pop blends saw massive attention. Artists like Lil Nas X, Doja Cat, and Rosalia exemplified this sonic mashup era.
4. Latin and African Sounds Go Global
Bad Bunny became Spotify’s most streamed artist for multiple years. Afrobeats artists like Burna Boy, Tems, and Rema gained massive global recognition, especially after collaborations with Western artists.
5. K-Pop Expands Its Footprint
Groups like BTS and BLACKPINK achieved historic chart success worldwide, including U.S. number ones, Grammy nods, and sold-out stadium tours.
6. AI, NFTs & the Future of Music Tech
AI-generated tracks and artists (like FN Meka) stirred ethical debates. Meanwhile, artists began experimenting with blockchain, NFTs, and Web3 platforms for fan engagement and revenue.
7. Political & Social Movements in Lyrics
Songs addressing racial justice, climate change, and mental health became more common. For example, H.E.R.’s “I Can’t Breathe” and Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” remained relevant.
8. Return of Rock? Maybe…
While rock hasn’t reclaimed mainstream dominance, acts like Måneskin, Wet Leg, and Machine Gun Kelly helped bring a pop-punk revival, especially among Gen Z listeners.
9. Women Dominate Charts and Awards
Female artists like Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, SZA, and Beyoncé consistently topped charts and won major accolades, continuing a trend from the late 2010s.
10. Streaming Overload and the Album’s Changing Role
With playlists reigning supreme, the concept of an “album” has shifted. Still, standout projects like SOUR (Olivia Rodrigo) and Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers (Kendrick Lamar) showed the format still matters.
Leave a Reply