In today’s day and age, listening to music has never been easier. With music streaming platforms such as Apple music, Spotify, or even Youtube Music, anyone can fill their ears with songs of their preference. However, because it’s extremely convenient, most people always have to have something playing in their room, their car or in their singular airpod (so they can at least half pay attention to the lecture). A substantial number of individuals have developed this habit, especially those from my generation; therefore, someone’s music taste can speak volumes about who they are as an individual.
Whether it be rap, classical, pop, throwbacks, rock, country, etc, everyone has genres they like and avoid. In certain cases, people are so immensely opinionated and passionate about which genres they feel are superior that they are even willing to argue with others to prove that they’re “right”. Perhaps I just hang out with very strong minded people, but I’ve personally participated in way too many of these, let’s call them “friendly debates”, over whose music taste was superior. As a result of this coming up so often, I’ve become very hesitant when the question comes up of “What kind of music do you listen to?”. Although this would seem like a pretty straightforward question, it always feels like a trick question. I’m fully aware I’m not alone in this opinion because I’ve seen all too many TikToks or memes about social anxiety when someone hands you the aux cord at a party or in the car. Because of this, it’s become a habit to simply say “it depends on what mood I’m in”, as an easy out.
Although there will always be those who will hate on your taste in music, there have also been many positive outcomes from conversations on this particular topic. In fact, just a few days ago, I had a conversation with one of my friends when he saw what song I was listening to; it turned out to be by one of his favourite artists. It was a genuine, nice moment since we bonded over the fact the artist is so under-appreciated. Since then, we’ve been sharing songs back and forth, recommending ones we came across and think the other would enjoy. Those little gestures and moments are so pure, and I love them so much.
However, I think my favourite part about discussing music taste with people is when someone’s appearance doesn’t match their music taste in the most ironic way possible. One of the most memorable instances of this has to have been when I was playing ice-breaker games at some event and got paired with the smallest and most wholesome-looking girl. She was so shy and introverted I swear I could see a halo floating over her head every once in a while. But when I was making small talk about music taste, I came to learn that she’s a die-hard heavy metal fan. Easy to say, I was in a state of shock from her throwing me such a curveball.
Overall, I find that those wholesome moments you get to share with people over music is such a beautiful thing that brings us all together and makes it all worth having to put up with those “friendly debates” every once in a while-especially when you get to learn more about who someone really is when not influenced by others. Because, like we’ve been taught from a young age, you should never judge a book by its cover.