The “pop-ularity” of pop music easily stems from its way of connecting people, whether it’s a catchy beat or the nostalgic memories it brings from our favorite artists. Several students on campus shared their insights on why pop music has remained a favorite for many and how its popularity has evolved over the years.
Isabella Sanchez, a junior, sees the popularity behind pop music is tied to its social trendiness.
“I think it’s popular because not only is it catchy, but [also] because you find all these songs all over social media and the latest popular trends,” Isabella shared.
In terms of pop evolution, she added, “With changes in technology and trends with newer generations, it definitely has changed a bit over the years.”
Isabella expressed she enjoys both older and newer pop music, citing Britney Spears and Micheal Jackson as her nostalgic go-to artists. “It makes me feel happy and confident as it gets my body moving and makes me think of good times,” Isabella explained.
In addition, Michelle Vang highlighted how music—specifically pop music—connects people and brings them together. “Music in general is a way to bring everyone together. It’s a way people can find a common ground; there’s always something for everyone.”
“I think pop music is definitely a number one hit because of its good vibes. The weather’s getting warmer, and the sun is out, you walk into the stores and hear a melody that sends out a positive vibe,” Vang added.
Michelle explained how she associates music with memories: car rides with friends or family members she relates with specific soundtracks.
“It just feels comfortable,” she said. “A place where we can just talk, laugh, maybe even cry, but we always make sure the music fits the atmosphere.”
Junior, Zulay Trejo, expressed her appreciation for the diversity of modern pop music. “I really like pop music because it’s so catchy and has good appeal. Although I feel more of a connection to an alternative genre, Olivia Dean has to be my top favorite pop singer because she blends pop in with R&B to create a more emotional, personal touch on her music.”
Zulay’s favorite tracks consist of: A Couple Minutes, Hardest Part, and Let Alone the One You Love, all by the artist Olivia Dean—which all capture the artistic and sentimental vibe she loves.
She shared that her favorite moments to listen are while taking night drives, walking with headphones in, or even cleaning. Zulay noted that pop’s evolving sounds make it more accessible to others. “I feel pop music has become so much more diverse, making it widely listened to,” Trejo said.
Whether it’s the magnetic feeling of nostalgia we feel during some classic pop hits or the diverse experimental vibes of modern pop tracks, it’s apparent that pop continues to capture our hearts. From late-night drives to hangouts filled with laughter—or maybe even tears—these songs have become the soundtrack that shapes our lives, and goes to show that pop has evolved into more than just a simple music genre but rather a shared experience that continues to connect people every day.
