The lyrics of popular songs have taken a more negative turn over the past five decades, according to a recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports. Researchers analyzed the lyrics of the top 100 English-language songs in the United States, as recorded on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, revealing a trend toward simpler and more negative themes in music from 1973 to 2023.
Dr. Maurício Martins and his research team from the University of Vienna examined a total of 20,186 songs during this period. Their findings indicated that not only have lyrics generally become less complex, but they also contain an increasing number of stress-related words. This trend appears to align with rising rates of depression and anxiety, as well as a growing negativity in media and literature, which has been documented in previous studies.
The analysis also highlighted an interesting turnaround beginning in 2016, when the popularity of songs featuring more complex lyrics started to rise. While the researchers did not find significant correlations between changes in lyric complexity and average household income, they did note associations with major stressful events. Notably, the 9/11 terror attacks and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic were linked to shifts in lyrical themes.
Dr. Martins pointed out that these significant events seemed to coincide with a shift toward more positive and complex music, often characterized by fewer stress-related words. He suggested that this change could be attributed to a desire for escapism during challenging times.
“The findings highlight the role of music in both shaping and reflecting moods over time,” Dr. Martins stated. He emphasized the need for further research to better understand why the preference for more complex lyrics has surged since 2016.
As societal conditions evolve, so too does the music that resonates with listeners. This study provides valuable insight into how external factors influence the emotional landscape of popular music, reflecting broader cultural shifts and individual coping mechanisms.
