Commentary: Influence Of Mainstream Music On Society

Pop music has a significant influence on society and culture. As one of the most popular and readily available forms of entertainment, pop songs tend to reflect and shape cultural attitudes and norms. Today, we present to you the four major ways pop music affects society, and warning: number one may trigger you!

4. Language and slang.

Pop music introduces new words and phrases into common parlance, especially among younger generations. Slang terms like “bling” or “chill pill” first emerged in hip-hop and pop songs before spreading into mainstream vernacular. Pop culture references in lyrics also spread into everyday language as people start emulating their favorite artists. Some pop-inspired slang achieves widespread use and becomes popular, while other terms fade quickly as the songs drop off the charts.

3. Fashion and style.

Popular music influences fashion and style, as fans emulate the “looks” of pop stars and musicians. Trends like leather jackets, Ray-Bans, and ripped jeans were popularized by pop icons of earlier decades. Today, fashion lines are often designed with pop star brand ambassadors in mind or even in collaboration with major artists. Styles featured in popular music videos are especially influential, as people seek to recreate the outfits and overall aesthetic of their favorite pop artists.

2. Progressive social change.

At its best, pop music can be a platform for raising awareness around social issues like racial justice, LGBTQ rights, feminism, and environmentalism. Pop artists who write politically and socially conscious songs can bring progressive ideas into the mainstream, especially impacting younger fans. Music advocating for change also provides an anthem and a message of solidarity for movements and activists. Of course, some pop music promotes more superficial values, but pop culture at large often reflects the contemporary era’s defining social causes and ideals.

1. Psychological and emotional well-being.

Pop music can have both positive and negative influences on well-being. Upbeat pop songs with positive messages can put people in a good mood and motivate them to achieve goals or push through obstacles. However, some pop music, especially certain genres like punk or metal, portrays anger, aggression, violence, or risky behaviors that may negatively influence listeners. Recent studies also link exposure to sexualized pop music to earlier onset of sexual activity in teens and more permissive views about casual sex.

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