-
1920's
In the 1920's, music started to become a staple in American culture. Music started to bloom into the main source of entrainment amongst people. Some of the most popular music in the 20's were from Jazz and Blues artists. Two of the most known musicians from this era were Louis Armstrong and and Jimmie Rogers.
Listen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWzrABouyeE -
1930's
The Swing Era began to bloom during the 1930's. Swing music was very upbeat and fun to dance to. Swing bands would give solos to their best instrumentalists during their performances to highlight their talent. Some of the best musicians from this era are Ella Fitzgerald, Woody Herman, and Oscar Hammerstein II. Other genres in the 1930's amongst Swing included Crooners and Jazz.
Listen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myRc-3oF1d0 -
1940's
World War II was going on during this era, which encouraged many artists to reflect pain during that time. This inspired artists to start writing songs on deeper/personal levels. Pop Culture began to thrive because songs were relatable and addressed the war. Popular artists that wrote performed for army men and sang about events in the era include Judy Garland, Bob Hope, and Lucille Ball.
Here's a clip of Lucille Ball:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8X_Ad9P_Hqc -
1950's
Rock'n'roll made it's debut in the 1950's. People enjoyed this new kind of music. It was much different than previous music and the songs were relative to people. This helped its popularity. R&B was also gaining popularity. Both were driven by African American people, however, many white artists stole songs from them. They claimed to be the original artist to gain popularity. Artists from this included Elvis Presley Nat King Cole.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcRQiNHrsoQ -
1960's
Many artists in this era were beginning their fame in the 1950's. The Civil Rights Movement had a heavy impacts on music during this time. The "British Invasion" also happened during the 60's. Many British bands and artists started to become very popular. The Beatles were probably the most popular from this. The Beatles had a huge fan following that would change the relationship between fan and artist forever.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jenWdylTtzs -
1970's
During the 70's, drugs increased in popularity. Musicians wanted people to see it as relaxing and free. Drugs could take them to a different "dimension". Songs were often written when artists were under the influence. Some songs written during this time were incredibly written. Many people believe it was due to the "relaxing" side affect of using drugs. This became a staple. Jimi Hendrix was one of the most famous in the 70's.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGoDaYjdfSg -
1980's
Some of the most talented artists of all time thrived in this era. Fashion changed drastically as artists wanted to be different and rebellious. Hair Metal and HipHop became popular. Fans were influenced more than ever before. People wanted to look like their favorite artists. Poison, Whitesnake, and Metallica started to become well known for their incredible talent and performances. Popular HipHop artist were Madonna and The Jackson Five.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCChxBSRo1Y -
1990's
In the 1990's, Alternative Rock, Rap, and Techno Pop started to become some of the most listened to types of music. The term "mainstream" started to emerge. "Mainstream" is the general audience of popular music. Basically, it's what everyone listened to. Previous musicians from other eras were still thriving, but their music began to go "mainstream" and they lost some of their audience. Some popular artists were Nirvana, Madonna, and 2-Pac.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqJAnQTwmJs -
2000's
Like the 1990's, some of the artists from this time were also popular in the 90's. However, during the 200's boy bands went haywire. Some of the most popular include NSYNC, The Backstreet Boys and West Life. HipHop artists like Usher, 50 cent, and Nelly thrived. R&B became increasingly popular. Fandom changed a bit in this era. Women swooned over these artists which helped their popularity. Flash mobs became a new trend.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo-KmOd3i7s -
Today
Music today has such a strong variety. Mainstream culture isn't like it used to be. People are starting to be accepting and open to unique artists of all types. Social platforms have become incredibly popular and have given artists a better opportunity at fame. Some of the most popular artists today are Lil Nas, Doja Cat, and Olivia Rodrigo.