It’s funny, the older I get, the less I like talking about music with, for lack of a better term, normies. Or more specifically, I don’t like talking about the music that I like. I love listening to other people’s opinions on music and will often ask them various questions about the artists that they love. But when these questions are pointed in my direction, I just feel uncomfortable and awkward. In fact, this happened on Saturday while I was at work. Our newest team member asked me what kind of music I prefer and the entire exchange made me feel super weird.
In the past, especially when I was just getting to know someone, I would often turn the conversation towards music. I loved spreading the good word about the bands that I loved. Now…not so much. But, if I find out that someone likes similar music and has a point of reference for the artists that I follow, I welcome the conversation.
What changed? It’s definitely not any kind of gatekeeper-y nonsense or superiority complex or anything like that, but those awkward and uncomfortable feelings are there nonetheless. So what is it? I didn’t have the slightest idea until I listened to the most recent episode of Indiecast (the Sept. 1, 2023 episode titled “New Albums By Zach Bryan + Jeff Rosenstock”). In that episode, they answered a listener's question about what they play when given control of the aux cord. In response, Steven Hyden said something to the effect of “I no longer have the desire to impress people with my taste in music” and that’s when I heard the glass shatter.
That’s it! Now I know. This probably also ties into my growing desire to not burden other people with my shit. I suspect this might have something to do with the discomfort I feel when my podcast comes up in conversation. There is nothing more awkward than trying to explain my dopey little podcast to colleagues or strangers.
At this point, I’m not sure how to answer the “What kind of music do you like?” question. Thankfully I have some great friends that I do feel comfortable nerding out about music and podcasts and whatever. I guess I could share the playlists that I made recently of my favorite song from each of my favorite bands…but that also seems a bit obnoxious.
Shreen is so great aint it? Was recently revisiting Mass Nerder and Problematic and just loved every track. Love the Chad era!
I know exactly what you mean. In the past I’ve been asked by people who I’m listening to or going to see live, and said “you probably don’t know them”. Not because I was being snobbish, but because when they press me to tell them they say “I don’t know any of those names.” It’s a waste of both of our times. I’ve shifted to saying what genres I listen to in hopes of them giving up