Research indicates a significant shift in the emotional tone of pop music lyrics over the past five decades. A study published in the journal Scientific Reports reveals that the lyrics of popular songs have become increasingly negative and simpler since 1973, coinciding with rising rates of mental health issues. However, an intriguing reversal appears to have occurred following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with more complex and positive lyrics gaining popularity.
Dr. Maurício Martins of the University of Vienna led a team that analyzed the lyrics of the top 100 songs from the Billboard Hot 100 chart each week from 1973 to 2023. The analysis encompassed over 20,186 songs and revealed a clear trend: lyrics have grown simpler and more negative, increasingly featuring stress-related language. This change reflects broader societal trends, including escalating reports of depression and anxiety, along with a noted negativity in media and literature.
Impact of Major Events on Music Trends
Notably, the study found that the rise of songs with more complex lyrics began around 2016. While the researchers did not connect these changes to fluctuations in average household income, they did identify notable correlations with significant stressful events, including the 9/11 terror attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Martins pointed out that these events often coincided with shifts toward more positive and complex lyrics, or at least a reduction in stress-related wording.
The researchers propose that the increase in complexity and positivity of song lyrics during challenging times may serve as a form of escapism for listeners. “The findings highlight the role of music in both shaping and reflecting moods over time,” Dr. Martins stated. He emphasized the need for further research to explore the factors contributing to the rise in popularity of songs with complex lyrics post-2016.
As the landscape of popular music continues to evolve, these findings underscore the powerful connection between societal events and artistic expression. The study not only sheds light on the emotional trajectory of music over the years but also calls for a deeper understanding of how external factors influence the creative choices of artists and the preferences of listeners.
