The hottest Pop Substack posts right now

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Born in the U.S.A.: The Protest Song America Misheard

American Dreaming • 123 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎶 Music Rock Pop Protest Cultural Commentary Song analysis
  1. Bruce Springsteen's song 'Born in the U.S.A.' is often misinterpreted as a patriotic anthem, but it actually critiques the treatment of Vietnam veterans and the struggles of the working class. Many listeners missed the deeper message behind the catchy tune.
  2. The album marked a significant shift in Springsteen's career, transforming him from a niche artist into a global superstar. Despite its success, the themes of economic decline and social injustice resonated more with a dedicated audience than the general public.
  3. Springsteen has expressed ongoing frustration with the way politicians, especially Ronald Reagan, used his music to promote a misleading narrative. He aimed to raise awareness about the American Dream's failures, which remains relevant today.

When does Brat summer really end?

Two Pages Double Spaced • 13 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎶 Music Pop Cultural critique Music videos
  1. Charli XCX's music reflects a shift from the optimistic EDM pop of the early 2010s to a more introspective and urgent sound in her recent work. This change mirrors broader cultural shifts in society.
  2. Her new album, 'Brat,' explores themes of personal reflection and the complexities of self-identity. The lyrics create a connection between the artist and listeners, showing vulnerability and self-awareness.
  3. The concept of 'cool' has evolved, where success and acceptance in the music industry now comes from understanding internet culture and blending it with genuine emotional expression.

Musical Interlude: Live to Tell

Disaffected Newsletter • 839 implied HN points • 13 Jul 24
🎶 Music Pop Performances Artists Emotional
  1. Madonna's emotional ballads show her true feelings, especially in 'Live to Tell'. It's a standout piece that showcases her talent beyond her public persona.
  2. The song holds personal significance, echoing themes of trauma and understanding that resonate with many listeners.
  3. Alternative performances of 'Live to Tell', especially those by Patrick Leonard and during Madonna's later concerts, bring a new depth to the song that enhances its impact.

What We've Lost in Music Criticism

Freddie deBoer • 8787 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎶 Music Criticism Pop Rock Diversity
  1. Indie rock no longer exists in 2024, with no cool clubs or scene left to produce new albums, showing a cultural shift away from 'indie' music.
  2. The embrace of poptimism in music criticism led to a shift towards conformity and popular music elevation, changing the role of the critic from highlighting underappreciated music to reassuring popular tastes.
  3. Music criticism has lost its diversity and focus on challenging artistic expressions due to the dominance of poptimism, impacting the vibrancy and depth of music discussions.
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"I'm a Believer" by the Monkees (1966)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 399 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Songwriting Bands Music history
  1. The Monkees were a popular band created for a TV show, and they captured the hearts of many young fans with their music and antics.
  2. Their song 'I'm a Believer' was a huge hit written by Neil Diamond, making it one of the best-selling albums in the U.S. during its time.
  3. The B-side 'I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone' shows a different side of the band with a more psychedelic and edgy vibe.

"Shambala" by Three Dog Night (1973)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 179 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Songwriting History Cultural impact
  1. The song 'Shambala' by Three Dog Night emphasizes positivity and kindness as a way to improve our lives and the world.
  2. Shambala is a legendary place in Tibetan Buddhism that symbolizes hope and peace, especially in tough times.
  3. Three Dog Night was a successful band known for their strong vocals and hit songs, including 'Shambala' which reached #3 on the charts.

Petula Clark - The other British invasion

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 459 implied HN points • 02 May 24
🎶 Music Pop Rock History Performance Culture
  1. Petula Clark had a huge impact in the 1960s music scene with several hit songs, showcasing her talent and staying power even at age 91.
  2. She collaborated with songwriter Tony Hatch to create many popular songs and was a top-charting artist, rivaling even The Beatles.
  3. Petula also had a successful career in film and television, gaining recognition for her acting and her efforts to promote inclusivity in entertainment.

"Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)"

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 279 implied HN points • 11 May 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Film History
  1. The song "Just Dropped In" was originally meant to warn kids about the dangers of LSD, showing the weird experiences of an acid trip. Over time, it became associated with fun and comedy, especially with the character of the Dude in 'The Big Lebowski.'
  2. Mickey Newbury, the songwriter, had a unique background as an Air Force veteran turned hippie cowboy. Despite his influence on many famous artists, he never achieved mainstream success like others did.
  3. Kenny Rogers led the First Edition, which blended styles like rock and country. Although they had hits, they struggled to define their identity as a band, leading to their eventual breakup.

Tune Tag #27 with Nic Briscoe, Pt. 2: Jeff Buckley, Red Hot Chili Peppers, David Bowie, 10cc, Wax + One Historic 150-Year-Old Piano

Front Row & Backstage • 491 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Songwriting Recording
  1. Nic Briscoe shares insights about music and recording experiences in a UK studio.
  2. The Tune Tag series features songs by Jeff Buckley, Red Hot Chili Peppers, David Bowie, 10cc, and Wax.
  3. Songs like Jeff Buckley's 'Last Goodbye' and 10cc's 'I'm Not in Love' hold personal significance.

Songs My Son Gave Me

So Here’s a Thing • 589 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
🎶 Music Critique Pop Rock Genres
  1. It's okay not to like all modern music trends, but there are still artists producing enjoyable material.
  2. Artists like Billie Eilish, UPSAHL, and Nessa Barret are worth exploring for a break from the usual.
  3. Exploring new music, even if it's not your typical genre, can uncover hidden gems and offer a refreshing change.

The feel-good hits from the musical "Hair"

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 139 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop History Culture
  1. The musical 'Hair' highlights the energy and spirit of the 1960s counterculture, capturing the protests and hopes of young people at that time.
  2. Its songs, including classics like 'Aquarius' and 'Good Morning Starshine', became big hits and were performed by popular artists, showing the musical's wide appeal.
  3. 'Hair' also sparked conversations about societal issues, like nudity and censorship, reflecting its message against the norms of the establishment.

What you are, you have to be

Disaffected Newsletter • 1298 implied HN points • 07 Feb 23
🎶 Music Pop Culture Mental health Family Dynamics Narcissism
  1. The lack of love and acceptance in childhood can deeply affect people's emotional health and relationships as adults. People can often seek out partners that remind them of this unfulfilled need for love.
  2. When you fall for someone who is a narcissist, it often feels exciting at first, but it can lead to pain because they cannot truly love you back. It’s important to recognize this dynamic and understand your own worth.
  3. To live a fulfilling life, you have to embrace who you truly are. Trying to please someone who doesn’t see you as a whole person can lead to self-disrespect and unhappiness.

Tortured Poets Department Faculty Picnic Gossip Circle

coldhealing • 255 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎶 Music Pop Lyrics Poetry
  1. Taylor Swift is considered a poet due to the depth of her lyrics and writing style.
  2. Music has replaced poetry in modern times, but some heights of poetry are not always reached by music.
  3. Taylor Swift's lyrical poetry, while not on par with traditional poets like Emily Dickinson, resonates with average listeners and has evolved towards a more confident and raw style.

MacArthur Park — that 7½-minute "cake out in the rain" song that mesmerized us

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 119 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
🎶 Music Pop Jazz Songwriting Music history
  1. The song 'MacArthur Park' tells a story about losing true love and the deep emotions connected to that loss. It's a journey of heartache that many can relate to.
  2. There are famous versions of the song by Richard Harris, Donna Summer, and Maynard Ferguson, each bringing a different vibe, from emotional ballad to upbeat disco.
  3. The lyrics are both literal and symbolic, with imagery that represents beauty lost, like a cake left out in the rain, and the songwriter wanted to capture that feeling in both music and words.

Raspberries, Surprise! Your Fave Rock Stars Love the 1970s Power Pop Kings!

Front Row & Backstage • 452 implied HN points • 19 Jun 23
🎶 Music Rock Pop Influences Albums Live Performances
  1. Many famous rock stars like Lennon, The Boss, Axl Rose, and Dave Edmunds love the 1970s power pop band Raspberries.
  2. Raspberries are considered pioneers of power pop, featuring catchy tunes, jangly guitars, and harmonies.
  3. The Raspberries had an impact on music history, inspiring modern acts, receiving critical acclaim, and even drawing admiration from legends like John Lennon and Bruce Springsteen.

Musical interlude

Disaffected Newsletter • 579 implied HN points • 16 May 23
🎶 Music Nostalgia Pop Rock Vinyl
  1. Growing up in the '80s felt magical and full of possibilities. It seemed like the world was just waiting for you and your friends to explore it.
  2. Nostalgia for music from your youth is common. For some, the songs from 1980 to 1991 bring back strong memories and emotions.
  3. Hearing songs from the past can trigger deep feelings. A familiar melody can suddenly bring tears after many years.

The Hits of The Mamas & the Papas

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 59 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🎶 Music Pop Rock History Culture Entertainment
  1. The Mamas & the Papas were a short-lived but influential band from 1965 to 1968, making a big impact on music and culture during that time.
  2. Their breakout was largely thanks to their appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show, which helped them reach a huge audience and boost record sales.
  3. Many of their songs reflect personal experiences, and their unique style combined fun with deep themes, which made them stand out in the music scene.

Notes on Radiohead

The Ruffian • 270 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎶 Music Bands Podcasts Pop Albums
  1. Radiohead is known for their unique music style that is complex and emotionally resonant.
  2. Radiohead's focus on albums over hit singles sets them apart from other bands.
  3. Radiohead's success lies in their ability to maintain a vast audience while following their artistic instincts.

"Money Don't Matter 2 Night," Prince (1992)

The Lost Songs Project • 216 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🎶 Music Pop History
  1. The song "Money Don't Matter 2 Night" by Prince is a socioeconomic battle cry with a sexy vibe.
  2. The song peaked at #14 on the R&B chart and #23 on the Hot 100, with 11.4 million streams.
  3. The post features guest columnists Jami Smith and Songs That Saved Your Life, offering unique insights and perspectives.

"Love Child" by Diana Ross & the Supremes (and bonus tracks)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 19 implied HN points • 17 Apr 24
🎶 Music Soul Pop History Entertainment
  1. Diana Ross and the Supremes were a major Motown group in the 1960s, known for their stylish performances and hit songs.
  2. Their success helped pave the way for future African-American artists in pop and soul music, with twelve of their singles hitting number one on the Billboard charts.
  3. Behind their hits, there were talented songwriters and musicians, although not all voices on their recordings belonged to the group members themselves.

Viva Forever! (2013)

Mule Britannia! • 19 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🎶 Music Pop Group dynamics
  1. The rise and fall of The Spice Girls, their quick global stardom, and eventual downfall after only 3 years.
  2. The story of how the Spice Girls were formed, including auditions, member selection, and their journey to fame.
  3. The creation and failure of the musical 'Viva Forever!' based on the Spice Girls, leading to financial losses and a short run.

GOOD MUSIC 02/2024

GOOD INTERNET • 3 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🎶 Music Indie Punk Pop Electronic
  1. The post highlights a diverse selection of music genres and artists, from indie to punk to electronic and more.
  2. Various well-known artists are featured such as Norah Jones, Little Simz, and Burial, offering a mix of new tracks and cover songs.
  3. Readers are encouraged to support the online magazine through paid subscriptions or other support options listed at the end of the post.

GOOD MUSIC 01/2024

GOOD INTERNET • 0 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🎶 Music Indie Hip-hop Pop Rock
  1. The post features new tracks from various artists like POND, Faye Webster, IDLES, Fat White Family, Kim Gordon, and more.
  2. The author shares monthly curated songs from their other blog 'GOOD MUSIC,' offering a collection of fresh tunes and emerging bands.
  3. Genres covered range from indie rock, hip hop, electronica, arty synth funk, to hardcore and angsty alt-rock, providing a diverse music selection.

Mother 93

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 13 Sep 10
🎶 Music Rock Pop History Culture Events
  1. The song 'Mother 93' by Danzig became a huge hit in early 1994, marking an exciting moment in music history. People everywhere, even those who had never heard of Danzig before, were suddenly talking about it.
  2. At that time, many other major music releases were still to come, which made 'Mother 93' feel like it appeared out of nowhere and filled a gap in popular music.
  3. The impact of Kurt Cobain's death shortly after the song's rise likely changed the music scene and Danzig's future, showing how quickly everything can shift in pop culture.