“I think today’s music is the worst it’s been in years.”-Billie Joe Armstrong, lead singer/guitarist for the American Punk band, Green Day. These words are a shared opinion of many adults and some teenagers.

These days, when you see teenagers walking down the street, their headphones in their ears, I-Pod’s on full blast. You can pretty much tell they aren’t listening to;

The Who

Grateful Dead

The Ramones

Red Hot Chili Peppers

Thin Lizzy

The Doors

R.E.M

Sex Pistols.
I myself, as well as other teenagers, have a liking for the “classics”, “oldies”, or the “head banging” kind-of music, but many teens typically listen too; Justin Bieber, Eminem, Lady Gaga, Drake, Bruno Mars, etc. In the end, you can’t control what others musical likings are, but I’m just suggesting that teen’s branch out of their comfort zone a little, they may be pleasantly surprised.

Musical Influence on Fashion


Run DMC brought Adidas hats, tracksuits, and t-shirts. AC/DC gave us sleeveless rock band t-shirts. Nirvana brought grundge into the picture. Justin Bieber brought high tops and the color purple, back into the closets of teenagers. Lady Gaga may not have struck a chord into the style of teenagers, but she definitely inspired the fact that you don’t have to follow others choice of style. Although I don’t listen to Lady Gaga, she has earned my respect for her willingness to change things up. According to clothingandsociety.com, music does influence fashion (a lot comes from MTV.) Teenagers tend to get their style from musicians and celebrities they like.

Words from a Teenager

“Sometimes when I’m listening to a band I really like I sometimes get nervous to change the song. I just get a little nervous to go out of my comfort zone because I don’t want my opinion to change. And because I don’t want the song to suck.” –Alison

“There is no difference between any pop musicians, all their songs are about the same things. They’re all cookie-cutter songs, there’s one story line, which is usually relationship related or has to do with parties and drinking, so in the end it’s all the same.” -Lizzie

“Pop music is catchy, and it makes me feel happy.”- Sarah

“Pop music is an inspiration to our generation.”- Alex

Bottom Line…


I have learned that you can’t reach everyone, but I’m just suggesting that teens explore the world of music a little more. Lay off Mac Miller a little and try some Led Zeppelin. When you look into your closet, how bout a t-shirt? There is such thing as comfort. Teens should try and start a new generation of self expression, leadership and creativity.