Why Gen Z Doesn't Care About Music

[RambleTamble]

In this video, Rick Beato discusses his theory on why Generation Z (born approx. 1995-2012) generally cares less about music compared to previous generations. He posits that the addictive nature of video games and visual entertainment (like YouTube and Twitch) has replaced the traditional Coming-of-Age ritual of buying and bonding over music records (0:26-2:32).

Key Points:

Addiction to Gaming: Beato shares his personal experience being overwhelmed by the addictiveness of Mario Kart, noting how it causes total focus, leaving no room for appreciating background music (0:26-1:45).
Shift in Role Models: Instead of wanting to be rock stars or musicians, many kids today emulate gamers and YouTubers (4:39-5:16).
Lack of Engagement: While many Gen Zers are skilled instrumentalists, they often learn via tutorials rather than having a deep, ear-driven appreciation for music as a central part of their daily lives (8:39-9:36).

 

[MACKTEXAS]

This was very surprising to me, considering the overwhelming popularity of Taylor Swift and her large Gen Z fan base.

 

[AnnieA]

Very interesting! I bet there's a difference in rural vs urban. Rural Gen Zers have more personal vehicle travel time (often with friends) when everyone listens to music.

 

[MarciKS]

i think the reason they don't go out and get music is because they can listen to it for free online.

 

[That Lady in PA]

Lots of concerts sell out to gen Zers around my area.

 

[MarciKS]

as a gamer myself, the music in the games is just background noise for ambience. most of the time i find the music annoying and either turn it off or turn it way down. when i'm focused on a game i don't really pay any attention to the music. it's the action and the sound effects that are gonna be in the forefront.

i love music but anymore i rarely listen to it.

 

[hearlady]

They need to sit down and listen to a Led Zepplin album on a Technics turntable and Bose speakers while sporting a nice buzz.
That'll teach em.

 

[MarciKS]

or some pink floyd lol

 

[RambleTamble]

I think it's probably true that young people today bond more over video games than over music. Times have changed. My parents' generation was into Frank Sinatra style easy listening jazz. My generation was into what we now call "classic rock." Subsequent generations were into punk, new wave, and then grunge.

But then, with the ubiquity of computers beginning in the '90s, young people's interests shifted away from music and to video games. Sure, there are still pop stars, but it's nothing like it used to be. I don't think young people sit down and really listen to Taylor Swift or whoever because there's really not much to listen to. It's more background music, or maybe sing-along music for young girls, but not listen-to music.

 

[KSav]

I think it's probably true that young people today bond more over video games than over music.

Probably, but it was a video game (I can't remember which one) that introduced my three kids to the Ramones. So there's that.

P.S. I love Rick Beato; he's great.