Pop lyrics seem to have taken a turn towards the “me” and “I” variety, according to a new study. The study analyzed three decades of songs, and concluded that song lyrics have become more narcissistic in recent years, reflecting current youth culture. Is that really true? Maura Johnston, music editor for The Village Voice, lends her thoughts on this topic.
We want to know: Do you believe you are narcissistic? Take this test and find out. We asked listeners to help us come up with a playlist of today’s narcissistic songs.
Monica Rodriguez wrote to us via Facebook: “It might be because music (mostly pop and hip hop) now is marketed to mostly teenagers … and teens are very self-centered! Adult contemporary, country, alternative and even electronic music doesn’t seem really narcissistic. My favorite song that’s ‘all about me’ is ‘Brass in Pocket’ by The Pretenders”
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!