"Grandma's" Playlist

As a teenager in our 21st century and modern generation, a myriad of changes constantly revolves around us: technology, slang, and of course, music taste. 

“Excuse me miss, what song are you listening to?” Upon asking, do expect countless mainstream artists like Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter and many more to pop up. Moving down the music chain, tiktok plays a major role in promoting these artists and ensuring their songs are played at every rave and that every single lyric is memorised upon hearing. 

However, after being named “Grandma” and “Boomer” by many friends, I can finally understand. Yes, because I operate the modern phone at the speed of a turtle, but more importantly, because of my music taste! 

Let’s be real. You walk into your grandparents home and hear Chuck Berry and Elvis Pressley on the radio. Except, you look up and vision their souls into a 14-year old body. That's right, that's essentially how my music taste works! Spotify playlists of mine are filled with timeless tracks from the 80s-2000s, ranging from Fleetwood Mac to Journey, Cyndi Lauper to The Shins. 

I know, these all sound completely alien. However, to me, this is my version of mainstream. My version of top hits. My version of karaoke music. Don’t get me wrong, I love current music and the certain vibe they carry too! 

Lastly, I strongly believe that these songs aren't just soundtracks that come out of our airpods, but instead a connection with the past, as well as a somewhat guide for us to understand some history at that point in time! (I promise I don’t sound old) 

If YOU are looking to broaden your spotify playlists and develop a great music taste, I do suggest you give old music, be it alternative rock, metal or just simple RNB a try! I promise you are guaranteed to catch on to a song. With that, happy listening!

Hannah de Lang-Ho

Secondary 3 Charity

2025