When a friend of mine declared they had no interest in rock music, yet couldn’t stop raving about Florence and the Machine, I was taken aback. To me, Florence and the Machine’s sound is undeniably rooted in rock. But as we delved deeper into the conversation, I began to understand that my friend’s musical preferences were not confined by genre labels. They were drawn to the band’s unique sound and the emotional depth of their lyrics. This was a powerful reminder that music is not about fitting into a specific genre, but about the emotional connection it creates with the listener.
Music genres are often seen as neat little boxes, but I now see them more as rigid cages. We love to categorize things, but when it comes to music, trying to fit it into one box can be like trying to stuff a wild and colorful bird into a cage.
Music genres are constantly evolving and changing, just like the music they describe. What was once considered “rock” in the ’80s, might now be called “indie” or “alternative.” And remember when “indie” actually meant independent? Now it’s just a catch-all term for a certain look, feel, and sound. Our musical preferences should not be defined by arbitrary genre classifications, but by their emotional resonance.
The problem with genres is not only in labels themselves but also in the biases and stereotypes that come with them. These limitations can prevent us from fully appreciating the depth and beauty of the song. Music is not just a collection of sounds, but a way of expressing emotions and connecting with the world around us. It has the power to evoke memories, transport us to other places and times, and even change the way we see the world. That’s why it’s important to be open to new experiences and to listen to music with an open mind and heart.
My recent exchange was nothing short of a revelation; a reminder to be open-minded and not limit ourselves to specific genres, to explore and discover new music regardless of the labels it carries. It’s a reminder to let go of the genre labels and just enjoy the song’s unique sound for what it is — a beautiful and complex tapestry of sound. So, why limit the magic of music with a label, when there’s a whole spectrum of sound waiting to be discovered?
Featured graphic by Sadie Karr
