Classic rock is fantastic. When a perfect song plays on the radio, it’s like a divine experience for me.
Rock music, my preferred genre, can be a bit cringeworthy when stripped down to its core. While I find myself enjoying a Kiss track like “Strutter,” which embodies power-pop perfection, I’d rather not be caught listening to it. Rock music, despite its artistic merit, often involves grown adults in flamboyant attire belting out tunes about heartbreak.
It seems that Spotify, my go-to music platform, doesn’t quite appreciate the over-the-top nature of rock ‘n’ roll like I do. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing—after all, not everyone should be exclusively jamming to 70s arena rock. I have a theory as to why Spotify leans towards softer music styles: it caters to users who listen passively while working, accumulating hours of background music. However, blasting Kiss while working is a recipe for distraction due to the repetitive nature or loud lyrics, prompting a switch to something more soothing. Spotify excels at recommending music that blends seamlessly into the background, creating a coffee shop-like ambiance no matter where you are. Unfortunately, it falls short in catering to my favorite subgenre: classic rock.
Classic rock, with its evolving definition, spans from the mid-60s to the early 2000s. It’s not solely defined by age but by a distinct vibe. For instance, while Hoobastank’s “The Reason” is over two decades old, it doesn’t fit the classic rock mold. On the other hand, Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Scar Tissue,” released a few years prior, fits perfectly. Classic rock is the kind of music a suburban dad would blast while washing his car—a blend of raw masculinity and simple beauty.
Instead of succumbing to the monotony induced by streaming services, I’ve rediscovered the joy of listening to classic rock on my local radio station, 95.5 KLOS, as I navigate the urban landscape of Los Angeles. The city, with its rich rock history, is brimming with nostalgia at every turn—Whisky a Go Go, Laurel Canyon, Sunset Sound—all echoing with the spirits of rock legends. In L.A., where excess reigns supreme, turning up the volume is the only way to truly connect with its essence. A touch of radio static only adds to the gritty charm of the experience.
Listening to rock ‘n’ roll isn’t about enhancing my surroundings; it’s about capturing my undivided attention.
While indulging in the raw energy of rock songs can be invigorating, it’s essential not to overdo it. While I may not actively choose to play Mötley Crüe’s “Kickstart My Heart,” I appreciate Spotify’s restraint in not pushing it through Autoplay. It’s like indulging in a milkshake—enjoyable in moderation.