Anglophone Pop Music in the Digital Age: Postmodern Narratives and Computer Modifications

Abstract

This article examines the influence of digital technologies on Anglophone pop music production, specifically in light of the postmodern condition. It explores how the proliferation of computer tools, software algorithms, and digital platforms shapes musical trends, particularly through the recycling of musical ideas, the standardization of production techniques, and the blurring of boundaries between artists and media celebrities. Making reference to postmodern concepts such as “simulacra”, “intertextuality”, and “metanarratives”, the study highlights the increasing convergence of song patterns in English-language pop music, characterized by more conventional approaches to songwriting and the dominance of platforms like TikTok. The text also addresses the shift toward algorithm-driven creation, where artistic individuality is at risk of being overshadowed by digital tools. Through this lens, the article discusses the evolving nature of creativity in a digitally mediated world, suggesting that while cutting-edge technological advancements do have the potential to promote novel forms of expression, they may also lead to a greater degree of uniformity. The discussion concludes by reflecting on the role of human agency in preserving genuine innovation amidst the growing reliance on artificial intelligence and algorithmic devices.

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