Tynan's Anger

Attention Tynan's Anger readers:

Starting this Tuesday (tomorrow), I will be counting down the decade with my Top 100 Songs of the Decade. Unlike many of these lists, You will receive in-depth analysis of each song, the kind of analysis normally reserved for entire albums. The definition of a good song has shifted dramatically since the rise of the Internet (more on that later), but I'll give you the luxury of providing my own standards:
Ground rules for Top 100 Songs of The Decade:

• This list is intended more as a discussion than a definite list. Because of that, these songs are purely a product of my tastes.
  
• Because of that, there are many songs not included that some would consider "glaring" omissions. Most important to me is not to include anything because I feel I "have to." Songs that are included are ranked according to the impact I felt they had.
  
• Some songs from albums I love are not included. If I ever get around to doing a comparable albums list, look out for new additions.

As for my tastes, here's a good barometer:

• If you think songs are representative of their times, this list is for you.
• If you think music can be significant on a larger social level, this list is for you.
• If you admit that songs still need a hook of some kind, this list is for you.
• If you think that hook need not be purely bubblegum, this list is for you.
• If you like songs that take a stance, political, cultural, or otherwise, whether or not it is explicitly referenced, this list is for you.

Finally, a technicality: In an effort to avoid "London Calling syndrome" (is it on the '70s list or the '80s list?), I allowed myself to include songs technically released in 1999 if I felt they had a bigger impact this decade. Ultimately, only one borderline song made the cut.

This list will eventually be reposted on my MOG page. More details on that soon.

Labels: 2000s, ground rules, lists, pop music, songs of the decade