20 Watts

Hate DJing for your parents?

I just got back from a two-day getaway trip to UpState New York with my parents. It sucked, but I’m not going to get into that. However, it reminded me of an annoying occurrence that happens every time I share a car with my parents for a prolonged period—choosing music.

Every time, my mom or my dad asks me to put in my iPod, which is filled with tons of music I love, cherish and worship. To them, a lot of my music is challenging, repetitive and just plain obnoxious. Music is one of the many generational divides we face with our parents, but there are ways to pick music that all sides can enjoy. Keep in mind, this method doesn’t last forever, and you’ll get tired of it, but it helps. All parents are different, but the following tips apply to even the most conservative music lovers.

1) Avoid songs/bands/genres that are repetitive

This means no house music, techno, or Top 40 music. My parents hate hearing the same notes repeated over and over again. It drives them crazy, which is understandable. It’s not like you’re parents want to pull the car over and have a full-out dance party.

2) Stay away from synth-pop

Forget about bands like Passion Pit, MGMT, Discovery or M83. Their electronic-pop notes are too sharp and robotic for middle-aged ears. MGMT is a judgment call because their pop swagger could be catchy enough for older people. This is also means NO AUTO-TUNE. Sorry Kanye, but Jay-Z has got the leg up with the folks.

3) Rock-Pop Music from the 1990s always works

Elliot Smith, The Wallflowers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Blind Melon all have easy-listening rhythm that work with parents. Rock bands from 90s also have familiarity going for them. It’s been 19 years since the 1990s began and older generations have had plenty of time to get used to music from back then.

4) Girl singers make it easy

Regardless of era or generation, bands led by girls or girl solo acts always work with parents. My dad loves Lykke Li, despite her seemingly dangerous indie sound. Acoustic acts are conservative and safe and don’t demand too much from listeners either.

5) Play their music

Most of our parents grew up in the 1960s and 70s, so it’s safe to play classic rock like Bob Dylan, Beatles, Rolling Stones, and David Bowie. Hey, it’s not like their music sucks. These bands and musicians are timeless talents, so it should be no problem playing a few classics during your road trip.

–Jett Wells