Sound-off: what students are listening to

By La'Rena Coleman Features and Entertainment Reporter Music is a huge part of students’ lives, whether it’s playing through headphones between classes or blasting in the cafeteria. Recently, what’s most trending among high school students is a mix of chart-topping pop stars, iconic rappers, and rising indie favorites. 

Students compare their artists and playlists on their phones. Photo by Jayvien Pearson.

High school students are drawn to artists for different reasons, with beats, lyrics, and voice playing a major role in their popularity. Catchy beats and energetic rhythms make songs perfect for hype moments, whether at school events or during workouts. 

“Mariah The Scientist is appealing because of her melodic, airy vocals and emotional lyrics; she has a soft voice and gives her songs a unique feeling. She also always has something about love everyone can relate to,” De'Kyla Webb said.

Lyrics that tell relatable stories about love, struggles, or success connect deeply with students, making them feel understood. An artist’s voice also adds to their appeal. Whether it’s smooth and emotional, raw and powerful, or uniquely distinctive, it helps create a strong connection with listeners. 

“Many people relate to Lil Baby, Lil Durk, Chucky, Lil Poppa, Lucci because they have relatable lyrics,” Ronald Roe said.

Artists’ music powerfully influences people’s moods and daily routines. Upbeat songs with lively beats can boost energy in the morning or keep students motivated during workouts. Slow, emotional tracks help process feelings during tough times or provide comfort after a long day. Lyrics that reflect personal experiences can inspire confidence while calming melodies make studying or unwinding easier. Whether it’s setting the tone for the day or providing an escape from stress, music shapes how people feel and move through their routines.

“For example, the rapper Lucki has motivational songs that make you wanna be more productive than what you do and keep going,” Jayvien Pearson said.

Favorite artists play a major role in shaping musical trends and cultural movements by setting new styles, influencing fashion, and sparking conversations on social issues. Their music often reflects the emotions and experiences of a generation, making them voices for social change, self-expression, and identity. 

“In my opinion, I feel like artists and the music you are interested in plays a big part and says a lot about yourself, like fashion, new styles, and social changes,” Sakai Jones said.

What these artists create often drives trends in genres, beats, and lyrical themes, inspiring both mainstream and underground music. Their influence extends beyond sound to social media, where their messages, aesthetics, and lifestyles shape youth culture and trends worldwide.