For Gen Z, music is not just a sound on a soundtrack–it is a social statement. Music discovery is no longer dictated by radio stations or record labels. For teens now, music is a combination of nostalgia and innovation. The social dynamics surrounding music circulation for teens including which streaming app is most popular, and best to use, as well as the influences that impact their music interests, and where it originates from.
Here at Woodland, many students’ playlists and music interests overlap. Many new pop artists are topping the charts everyday. Today, music is more than just background noise–it is a language of emotion and connection in a world that is constantly changing.
Nowadays, teenagers are not as reliant on the radio station to listen to their favorite songs. As of early 2025, Spotify is still holding the title of the most popular music streaming service globally among people aged 12 to 34.
“I find Spotify to be easier to use and more user-friendly,” said Victoria Viveiros, music enthusiast at Woodland.
On the other hand, another junior at Woodland, Riley Luersen likes apple music. “Apple Music’s layout and display is more convenient and pleasing to the eye. When using Spotify you need to look closer and pay more attention for something to catch your eye, whereas on Apple Music everything is right there in front of you once you open the app,” said Luersen.
Mckenna Chuck, frequent Apple Music listener, states how much more convenient Apple Music is, since she is on a family plan, and it is also way easier for finding and accessing music compared to Spotify. While both apps have different subscription plans, some people seem to have different opinions on which one is really better than the other.
Along with the dominance of streaming platforms, the term “mainstream” has become a common way to describe widely popular music. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether listening to mainstream music is a positive or negative thing.
“I feel like it’s mainstream for a reason, and there’s a reason why people like it,” said Viveiros.
Nowadays, social media—and even friends—can influence new music interests and introduce listeners to different artists.
“My friends have often introduced me to new artists I hadn’t listened to before, but now I do,” said Viveiros.
It seems to be more common among high school students that the music they are drawn to, often depends on their mood and emotions.
“It depends on what kind of mood I’m in and what I feel like listening to when it comes to mainstream music,” Chuck adds. “But if that’s all people listen to, then that’s just boring.”
Many teens and young adults agree that listening exclusively to mainstream music can be dull, as there are countless other styles and genres to explore. The debate over mainstream versus alternative music remains a controversial topic in today’s streaming era.
Speaking of different styles and genres of music, it is most common for most pop-related music artists to produce a similar style of music; however, most teenagers listen to a variety of different artists rather than just one specific artist at all times.
“I like to listen to a mix of genres, some even being recommendations from friends,” said Viveiros.
Overall, with the variety of music preferences teens have today, they are more open than ever to exploring different styles and genres. Whether through social media, friendly influences, or streaming algorithms, their playlists are constantly evolving, reflecting their individuality and the ever-changing landscape of modern music.
