Classic rock music has been introduced to us in the late 70s and early 80s. Back then it made a true revolution in the music industry. Nothing before has ever sounded even remotely similar to classic rock. Not the Beatles, jazz, or disco music has such an impact on the future of the music industry. At the times it has appeared, the older generations were shocked and appalled by this loud “horrible” music. It sounded nothing like what they would expect of music. Though, all the younger generations have immediately fallen in love with this new sound. Well, it was more than just the new genre really. It was a new culture, new generation, new era. It was then that the music industry has forever changed, opening up more new directions for music to evolve and diversify.
The years have passed though not much has changed since then. The youth is still listening to rock music with the same dedication and admiration as before. In fact, the recent trends show that young people tend to listen to classic rock more than the previous generations. But why is it so? What makes rock music so popular among students to this day? Let’s find out.
Rebellion
During the times it was first played to the public, and by this day, rock music was the proud ambassador of rebellion. It was the symbol of otherness that young people were glad to put on themselves. In the modern era, nothing has changed. Rock music is still perceived differently from everything else. Despite having so many subgenres, rock has remained its unique spirit and role in students’ lives.
Students, among all other social groups, are historically known to be the main force behind any rebellions. There is something in the young blood that requires changes in the social order. With the introduction of rock music, these students have found their voices. It was the music that could speak for them and about them. It is the lyrics that reveal the deepest desires of young people. It is the melody that sets the beat for the marching crowds. Hence, through rock music, students recognized that they also have a role to play in changing society.
Uncensored
Whether now or then, there was and still is censorship in music. Yes, there are certain things and topics that you were supposed or not supposed to cover. Rock didn’t follow the same rules as other genres. Rock singers are covering politics, social issues, death, and life. Everything that seems important enough to be told, can be heard in rock songs. It is the music that can’t be modified or censored. It comes from the heart. Initially, it has shocked the people not just with its rustic sounds, but the messages behind the music. In the present day, not much has changed. We expect rock music to be bald, true, and emotional.
Hence, rock music has always been about liberation. It has shown that everyone can go outside the restricted social norms and express themselves in a way they want it. People are free to think for themselves, form their opinions, and follow their judgments. However, one does need to feel the freedom within to express oneself in a free manner. This is one of the reasons why rock musicians have always been quite vocal about political and social stands. Art and politics are always connected. Though, have been the first ones to jump into the political conversation.
Rock music is the voice of its time
Looking back at the history of rock, it is easy to spot the commonality among all different rock periods. They reflect the culture of its times. They speak of the most important social issues, they show the major concerns of people. Rock changes and evolves according to the mood and needs of the generations. So, whenever you need to receive some paper writing help with your historical assignment, you can turn on the most famous rich ballads and songs from the past and learn from them.
The bottom line
At the end of the day, rock music is not the only type of music that young people are listening to these days. Today, more than ever, people are more open-minded about their music tastes. Perhaps, it is due to the wider variety of singers and bands of all kinds of styles. Perhaps, it is due to the open music access. Now we don’t have to buy records without listening to them first. Now, we can listen to any song of any still of the genre online, educating ourselves about the grand variety of options. Hence, it’s hard to say that just rock music is so popular with students. It’s the music itself that is so vital to young people in general.