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The Soundtrack of the Strangest Year: A Look Back at Music in 2020

 2020 was a year defined by unexpected changes, and surprisingly, the music scene flourished, offering us both escape and introspection during a time of global uncertainty. From disco revival to surprise indie drops, here’s a look at the biggest trends and hits that defined the year.

The Rise of Nostalgia: Disco Revival and '80s Synth

If there was one genre that made a major comeback, it was Disco. Artists channeled the vibrant energy and escapism of the late '70s and '80s, giving us the perfect soundtrack for dancing alone in our living rooms.

Dua Lipa was a leading force in the disco revival.


  • Dua Lipa's Future Nostalgia: Arguably the album of the year for many, Dua Lipa perfectly blended modern pop with slick, irresistible disco-funk, earning critical acclaim and dominating the airwaves with hits like "Don't Start Now" and "Break My Heart".

  • The Weeknd's "Blinding Lights": This '80s synth-pop anthem was the undeniable global smash. Its pulsing beat and catchy chorus made it one of the most streamed and charting songs of the year.

The Power of Surprise: Intimate & Acoustic Drops

The sudden lack of touring and promotion schedules led several major artists to drop music with little-to-no warning, often taking a more subdued, introspective direction.

Taylor Swift surprised everyone with her folk album.


  • Taylor Swift's folklore: Swift’s surprise indie-folk album was a critical darling. Collaborating with The National's Aaron Dessner and Bon Iver, she created a richly textured, poetic record that offered listeners an emotional refuge.

  • Phoebe Bridgers' Punisher: The indie-rock darling's second album perfectly captured the feelings of isolation and melancholic humor that permeated the year, cementing her as a voice for a generation.

Hip-Hop, Rap, and Viral Hits

Hip-hop continued its reign with hard-hitting tracks and massive viral moments, largely fueled by platforms like TikTok.

Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion made a huge impact.


Written by Steven Ricky Lie
References:
"
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Future_Nostalgia
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blinding_Lights
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folklore_(Taylor_Swift_album)
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punisher_(album)
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billboard_Year-End_Hot_100_singles_of_2020
  • https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/best-albums-2020-1096894/
"

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