How do different generations view music when it comes to finding a compatible partner? There’s been a survey.

Every generation has its own opinions on what constitutes “good” music. A dating app that matches people based on their musical tastes, conducted a survey of Boomers (born 1946-64), Gen X (1965-79) Millennials (1980-1994), and Gen Z (1995-2012) “in the context of relationships and social experience.”

I quote from the press release:

Spotify Wrapped: Not so accurate for all 

Everyone is talking about it and sharing it, but do they stand by it? While 72% of Millennials find Spotify’s recommendations on point, only half of Baby Boomers and Gen Z agree. Gen X feels especially misunderstood by their Spotify Wrapped at only 33% accuracy, suggesting a digital divide in the way this generations use Spotify. 

Geographical Barriers and Music Compatibility 

Only 17% of Baby Boomers and 22% of Millennials would consider relocation for a music-matched partner, contrasting with a more eager 44% of Gen X and 40% Gen Z. 

Road Trip DJ Preferences: A Harmony of Control and Trust 

Baby Boomers have some conditions they’d like you to know about when it comes to music on car rides. Rather than being open to a partner DJing, Baby Boomers want the most control over the playlist with veto power or shared time. Meanwhile, Gen X and Millennials seem to be more laid back and may opt to lean into music discovery on a road trip. Gen Z, while not as opinionated as Baby Boomers still favor shared control. 

Concert Behaviors: From Sober Tunes to Buzzed Beats 

The majority of Baby Boomers (83%) and Gen X (61%) choose sobriety at concerts, valuing clear memories over buzzed experiences, a sentiment less prevalent in 39% of Millennials and 60% of Gen Z. Millennials were also the least likely to be mostly sober. 

Tech at Concerts: A Generational Split Screen 

Most Gen Z (50%) are comfortable with their concert companion being on the phone, indicating a generational shift towards digital integration at live events, unlike the 67% of Baby Boomers who prefer undistracted company. Millennials were most closely aligned with Baby Boomers here. 

Looks vs. Lyrics: What’s Your Dealbreaker? 

A significant 83% of Baby Boomers and Millennials, and a notable 80% of Gen Z, would prioritize music compatibility over looks, whereas Gen X shows a slight tilt towards aesthetics.