As we settle into the first month of 2024, there has been an influx of older and younger gen-zers eager to bring back the fashion and sounds from ten years ago. Longing for the days of black boots, American Apparel, and where Tumblr dominated the social media scene, the masses look to 2014 songs to take them back.
Aside from fashion being a stable of that era, the music that was making its way onto lyric quote posts and aesthetic playlists truly made the biggest impact on this time in pop culture history. So, as you dust off that Polaroid camera you haven’t touched in years, add these 2014 songs and throwbacks to your nostalgia playlist.
Clean Bandit. “Rather Be (feat. Jess Glynne)”
Released on their album New Eyes, this upbeat classic captivates listeners with its catchy violin melody paired with electronic beats. The bop creates a dynamic and energetic backdrop that sets the tone for the entire song. Featuring Jess Glynne, whose vocals soar over the vibrant instrumentals, add an extra layer of emotion. Her delivery perfectly complements the optimistic and romantic theme of the song. “Rather Be” perfectly reflects the desire to be with someone special and creates a utopian vision of love and happiness.
Lorde “Team“
Other than breaking out into the mainstream in the mid-2010s, Lorde dominated the Tumblr scene. She made relatable music for the youth since she was 17 years old when her album Pure Heroine was released. Team its minimalistic yet atmospheric sound. The haunting electronic beats and ethereal synths create a backdrop that perfectly complements Lorde’s evocative vocals. The song’s sonic landscape is immersive, drawing listeners into a world that feels both introspective and rebellious.
Milky Chance “Flash Junk Mind”
This vibrant track seamlessly blends folk elements with electronic beats, resulting in a sound that is both infectious and distinctive. “Flash Junk Mind” is reminiscent of those carefree days with the people close to you. It can easily invoke those memories from its opening cords. Along with its upbeat and danceable nature, the song’s an instant earworm, inviting listeners to move and groove to its lively beat.
Charli XCX “Boom Clap“
From the soundtrack of the film adaption of John Green’s beloved book, The Fault In Our Stars, “Boom Clap” is a lively love song. It completely fits the blooming yet tragic romance between Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters. Additionally, it deeply resonated with those sporting “Okay? Okay” shirts. Charli XCX’s vocals exude a sense of urgency and passion, and the upbeat and anthemic nature of the song provides a rhythmic backdrop to the unfolding love story. In doing so, she enhances the emotional impact of these pivotal moments.
MGMT “Electric Feel”
Despite being released in 2007, Electric Feel easily found its audience during the indie takeover of the early and mid-2010s. MGMT’s experimental and boundary-pushing approach to music is at the forefront as this track’s psychedelic influences are immediately apparent. Dreamy synths and trippy guitar melodies create an immersive atmosphere. The funky bassline and danceable beats make it impossible to resist moving to the music. MGMT’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of pop and psychedelia contributes to its universal appeal. “Electric Feel” stays a track that resonates with a diverse audience.
Tegan and Sara “Closer”
Tegan and Sara’s “Closer” is an infectious synth-pop anthem with pulsating synths and energetic beats. It immediately draws listeners into a world of electronic euphoria. The catchy, upbeat nature of “Closer” creates an irresistible energy that invites audiences to embrace the dancefloor. The vibrant instrumentation serves as a sonic backdrop to the lyrics, enhancing the overall impact of the track. “Closer” not only showcases the evolution of Tegan and Sara’s sound but also the power of pop music’s ability to connect on a personal level.
These tracks are just a few that embrace the rich tapestry of sounds that defined 2014. Serving as sonic time machines, they encapsulate the spirit of a generation that reveled in music, fashion, and digital expression. Let these 2014 songs carry you back to a time when each lyric held profound meaning, and each beat sparked memories that linger in the collective consciousness of pop culture history.
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