By Rosie Smith
From rap to country to R&B, every person has their preference for how a song makes them feel.
In a recent survey of 49 students and 4 faculty and staff about their musical taste, 22% said they listen to music in car rides, 12% said they listen to music after school, 5% said they listen to music in the mornings, 3% said they listen to music during school, and 10% said they listen while completing homework or any other time they can.
Students who voted rap as their favorite genre said that the music is good, the lyrics are smooth, and the artists are good at making music. Freshman Aiden Spialek said he likes Kanye West because, “the soul samples in the beats are so good, and he has the perfect voice for the type of music he makes.” Sophomore Leo Nardiello said he likes Eminem because “the influence he has on rap music will last forever, and he is very iconic with good music.”
For the cowboys, students who voted that country was their favorite genre said that the lyrics are creative or that they are able to listen to it during any mood. Freshman Makenzie McHenry said she likes Daniel Caesar. “His voice is unique, and his music can apply to many emotions so you can listen to him with any mood,” McHenry said. Freshman Meghan Runte said she likes Taylor Swift “because of her story, creative lyrics, and work ethic.”
For the pop stars, students who voted that pop was their favorite genre of music said that the music is motivational and inspirational. “Billie Eilish has songs for every mood I’m in. Her lyrics are relatable, and her songs are catchy and beautiful,” junior Ayla Dickerson said. “My favorite musician is Tate McRae because she is a great inspiration to people and writes amazing songs,” sophomore Ali Strange added.
For the rock stars, students who voted that rock was their favorite genre said that the music is different than other styles and catchy. “Journey is my favorite group and rock is my favorite genre because the era their music came from was a turning point in the history of the U.S. and is put into an exciting/emotional story,” sophomore Sam Whitcomb said.
“Metallica has been making music for over 40 years, and still sound amazing,” junior Ethan Feldkamp said. “They make music that works really well for motivation or hype, but they also make music that works for other situations, like sentimental,” he added.
Fleetwood Mac “has a different style and vibe that most music doesn’t have anymore,” sophomore Kiera Norton said about her favorite band.
Students who voted that R&B was their favorite genre, said that it is emotional, passionate, and has fun memories that come along with it. “They’re my favorite artist because of their attitude, what their message is in their music, and the fun memories that come along with listening to the music,” freshman Hailey McPheron said about her favorite artists Chappell Roan and SZA.
“Lana Del Rey’s songs are emotional but also very chill and give me calming vibes,” freshman Nadia McCord said. “I love Lana because she has a unique voice and romantic but problematic aesthetic. I like R&B because it is emotional and passionate,” she added.
Despite different music genres, music brings people together, creates memories, and can put listeners in a good mood.
The McNicholas Milestone 