Throughout history, the essence of complete human connection has been through few things. Some of these universal connections include tragedy, the media, and of course, music. Music has been described as an outlet, stress reliever, or simply, a great way to pass time. What’s great about music is it’s so completely diverse and seems to find a way into the hearts of even the most stubborn. Musical artists are always finding new ways to connect and relate to their audience, in more ways than one, which in my opinion is why certain artists appeal to certain people; there’s a song for every emotion you’re feeling, you just have to search for it. I’ve taken the liberty of interviewing a few of our students here at the high school on their favorite genres just to prove my point.

Eleesa: 11th grade
R&B: What is your favorite genre of music?
E: Alternative.
R&B: Describe how this music influences your life in less than 6 words.
E: it’s always been an outlet.
R&B: Favorite artist and why?
E: Flatsound, because the lyrics are relatable.
R&B: Describe this music genre in one word.
E: Artsy.

AJ: 9th grade
R&B: What is your favorite genre of music?
A: Rap.
R&B: Why?
A: It keeps me motivated.
R&B: Who is your favorite artist? Why?
A: Big Sean, because his music is extremely relatable and reaches a large audience.
R&B: Describe rap in one word.
A: Influential.

Dylan, 11th grade
R&B: Favorite genre of music?
D: Pop.
R&B: Favorite artist? Why?
D: Coldplay, because I like the lyrical aspect of songs instead of the sound and Coldplay is one of the few bands that fulfils that.
R&B: Wow, okay. And could you describe pop in one word?
D: Entertaining.

Zoe, 11th grade
R&B: Favorite genre of music? Why?
Z: Hip-Hop, because that’s the only type of music that I really have interest in.
R&B: Who’s your favorite artist and why?
Z: Kanye West because he’s really creative.
R&B: How has he influenced your life?
Z: He made me see things in a different way.
R&B: Okay, now describe hip-hop in one word.
Z: Fire

Gianna, 10th grade
R&B: Favorite genre of music?
J: Rock.
R&B: Who’s your favorite artist and why?
J: Fall Out Boy, because I love their rhythm.
R&B: How have they influenced your life?
J: They relieve my stress and help ground me.
R&B: Describe rock in one word.
J: Soul.

In these few short interviews of people from different backgrounds and personalities, one thing they have in common is music. Each favors a different genre. Music has helped many through some of the hardest times in their lives, and left a lifelong imprint. So, expand your horizons, and try listening to different kinds of music. You might even be surprised and find yourself enjoying something you never thought you would.
I’ll end this with some favorite lyrics from the people I interviewed:
“I’m only a man with a candle to guide me, I’m taking a stand to escape what’s inside me.”
~Imagine Dragons, “Monsters”
“Hey, moon, please forget to fall down.” ~Panic! at the Disco, “Northern Downpour”
“Sometimes before it gets better, the darkness gets bigger.” ~Fall Out Boy, “Miss Missing You”
“Last night I took an ‘L’ but tonight I bounced back.” ~Big Sean, “Bounce Back”
“Before I save someone else, I’ve got to save myself.” ~Ed Sheeran, “Save Myself’

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