The “Sombr Test”: Are You Officially “Old”? Gen Z Explains All
Feeling out of touch with the latest music trends? Stumbling over unfamiliar names dominating the airwaves? You’re not alone. A creeping realization dawns on us all: we’re not as young as we used to be. One artist, in particular, has become a cultural touchstone, a generational marker dividing the hip from the hopelessly outdated: Sombr.
But who
is
Sombr, and why does knowing (or not knowing) them signify a slide into obsolescence? This question prompted a deep dive, consulting with none other than Jason P. Frank, a writer at Vulture and card-carrying member of Gen Z.
Navigating the Generational Divide: More Than Just Music
The phenomenon isn’t just about recognizing a name. It’s about understanding a cultural landscape that’s constantly shifting. As younger artists gain prominence, their names become a secret language, a password granting access to a world that becomes increasingly foreign to older generations. Think of it as the musical equivalent of remembering when Kourtney Kardashian was on the cutting edge – a sign of the times changing.
This gap can feel daunting, even isolating. The solution isn’t to desperately cling to youth, but rather to acknowledge the reality of aging and seek guidance from those who are immersed in the current culture. Think of it as asking a knowledgeable young person to lead you across a busy street, ensuring you don’t get hit by the speeding traffic of pop culture trends.
Embracing the Inevitable: Finding Joy in the New
The rise of Sombr and artists like them isn’t a threat; it’s an opportunity. It’s a chance to learn, to broaden our horizons, and to appreciate the constant evolution of art and culture. It’s a reminder that music, like life, is a journey of discovery, not a static destination. So, if you’re drawing a blank when you hear the name Sombr, don’t despair. Instead, embrace the moment, ask a Gen Z friend for the lowdown, and open yourself up to a whole new world of sound. You might just discover your next favorite artist.
SOURCE: Vox
Based on materials: Vox
