A Decade of Great Music: Should We Choose Between the 1960s and 1970s?

As someone born in the late 80s, I have no personal recollection of the 1960s and 1970s. However, I often lose myself in the music of these decades, and it has led to my personal thoughts and comparisons. In today's digital age, it's easier than ever to access a vast library of music from any era. But should we choose between the inimitable sounds of the 1960s and the rebellious tunes of the 1970s? Let's delve into the rich musical landscapes of these two decades and explore their unique qualities.

Personal Journeys Through Music

During my teenage years, I delved extensively into 60s-80s music, discovering and exploring the sounds of these decades. While the 60s were often painted as a golden age of music, with iconic artists such as The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix, my initial encounters were met with a mix of admiration and skepticism. My upbringing among Baby Boomers who believed that the 60s boasted the greatest music ever was intriguing. However, the memorable words of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son” didn’t resonate as much with my sensitive teenage ears. Songs like The Beatles’ message of love seemed distant and unrealistic, much like the sunny days of youth I never experienced.

As I grew older, my interest shifted towards the 1970s, particularly the punk era. The distinguishing features of 70s music, like the raw, rebellious nature of 80s punk, drew me in much more than the polished pop charts of the same decade. When my older relatives spoke fondly of the 1980s, using examples like Duran Duran or Lionel Richie to illustrate its greatness, I always found myself intrigued but not particularly moved. Instead, the independent and confrontational music of the 1980s spoke to my ever-curious and adventurous spirit.

Cherry Picking Music Across Eras

While it's tempting to wholeheartedly embrace one era of music over another, I prefer a more eclectic approach. In this day and age, where digital platforms offer instant access to music from every corner of the globe and every point in time, I believe that the best approach is to cherry pick what you need without letting any decade or genre dictate what you should listen to. With a plethora of information available, there's no need to be influenced by outdated opinions or media narratives.

For instance, if I’m in the mood for a trip back to the 60s, I might blast some Jimi Hendrix and completely disregard the works of Herman’s Hermits. Similarly, when I want to revisit the 80s, it’s Black Flag and No Wave pioneers like Sonic Youth that captivate my ears, not the melodramatic ballads of the era’s pop charts.

Historical Context and Emotional Investment

While it's important to understand the historical context of the music we love, I generally find that this knowledge is secondary to the quality and emotional impact of the music itself. Unless the music itself speaks to me, the reasons behind its creation and the social issues it addresses are often secondary. Researching the sociopolitical climate of an era can provide a rich and nuanced understanding, but it’s not a prerequisite for appreciation.

Ultimately, the best approach is to immerse yourself in the music and let it speak to you in its own way. Whether it's the psychedelic sounds of the 60s or the punk defiance of the 80s, the key is to find the music that resonates with your personal experiences and emotions. These decades are simply stages of a grander musical journey, and each can offer unique insights and pleasures depending on your frame of mind and the music that speaks to your soul.

Conclusion

Music is a powerful medium that transcends time and context. While the 1960s and 1970s are often romanticized, the truth is that each era offers its own distinct flavor and emotional depth. Whether you prefer the dreamy and ethereal tunes of the 1960s or the raw and rebellious sounds of the 1970s, the most important thing is that you find what speaks to your heart. In this age of instantaneous access, there's no better time to explore, appreciate, and embrace the full spectrum of musical history.