Music is a wonderful thing. For thousands of years, it has captivated the minds of the human race by lifting those who enjoy it, taking them on an adventure through emotion. Opposing the simplicity of classical and orchestral music that held earlier centuries, the modern era holds an extensive variety of styles and genres, as well as a slightly different taste to match everyone who listens. 

While some may prefer the upbeat and bass-heavy nature of rap or electronic music, others may enjoy the mellow and sensitive journey of soft rock or soul. One’s taste may be affected by their background, generation, or personality. For instance, one from a specific ethnicity may consume music related to this culture. The baby boomer generation often appreciates jazz, Gen X tends to enjoy classic rock, and millennials and Gen Z kids are categorized with electronic and rap. 

What do Liberty students and staff in particular prefer? That is the question to answer.

Obviously, a school of more than 1,300 people contains a diverse range in taste. 

Some students and teachers mentioned heavy metal rock bands, including 5 Finger Death Punch, Slipknot and Metallica. 

Others brought up softer rock bands like Fleetwood Mac, Wallows, Toto (specifically the song Africa) and Foster the People. 

Many teachers were fond of popular bands from their generation, such as Dave Matthews Band, Breaking Benjamin, and the Foo Fighters. 

Quite a large number of students accredited rap as their favorite genre, putting Eminem as their all-time favorite rapper. Others included Cardi B, the Weeknd, and Logic. 

Alternative artists such as Hayley Kiyoko, King Princess, Troye Sivan, Twenty-One Pilots, Panic! at the Disco, and Halsey were praised. 

A few referred to country, with singers like Luke Bryan and Rascal Flatts. 

Many spoke of pop, especially by strong women including Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Lizzo, and Zara Larson, and Billie Eilish. 

Musicals and their soundtracks were mentioned, including Hamilton, Wicked, and Dear Evan Hansen. 

Some students even broke away from English altogether, listening to French, Spanish, Kpop with artists like BTS, Loona, Stromae, and Bad Bunny. 

When asked of their favorite album, most students gave a different answer. Rumors by Fleetwood Mac had a few fans, as well as Death of a Bachelor by Panic! at the Disco, and American Idiot by Green Day. 

No two students had the same favorite song. In fact, practically no one had a definite one that they knew off the top of their head. Most teachers and students thought for a moment, before giving multiple songs, refusing to choose just one. Many of them seemed to be particular tracks from the discography of their favorite artists, even off of their favorite album.