Study Reveals Modern Song Lyrics Simpler, More Repetitive, and Angrier
Analysis of over 12,000 songs from the past 40 years shows a shift towards simpler lyrics and increased emotional content, influenced by streaming platforms.
- A comprehensive study analyzing over 12,000 English-language songs from 1980 to 2020 found that modern song lyrics have become simpler, more repetitive, and angrier.
- The study, spanning genres like rap, country, pop, R&B, and rock, also observed a trend towards more personal and emotional lyrics.
- Rap music showed the most significant increase in anger and negative emotions, while country music had the lowest rise in these emotions.
- The shift in music consumption patterns, from physical purchases to streaming platforms, has influenced the simplification and increased repetitiveness of lyrics.
- Older rock songs are more viewed on the lyric platform Genius, indicating a preference for their lyrics, while newer country songs are more popular than older ones in the genre.
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