The video of the young Taylor Swift fans struggling to figure out how to get a CD out of its case highlights the generation gap between those who grew up with CDs and the younger generation who have always had access to streaming music.
CDs were at their peak in popularity in 1999, bringing in $22 billion a year. However, with the rise of music piracy and streaming services, physical media became less practical. By 2022, CD sales had dropped significantly to $482 million.
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The video, initially posted on TikTok by @shannonschmidtmn, gained attention before being made private. It was even liked by Taylor Swift herself. In the video, the girls all have different ideas on how to get the CD out of its case. One believes the center knob functions as an eject button, while another thinks spinning the disc will unscrew it from the jewel case. Another girl is worried about breaking the disc.
An older person behind the camera finds the girls' confusion amusing, stating that this is how they used to listen to music. Eventually, the girls are able to get the CD out by pushing the center knob and lifting it gently. One of the girls excitedly exclaims, "I knew that was a button!"
This video serves as a reminder of how swiftly technology has advanced in a relatively short span of time. Compact discs were once the primary way to listen to music, but now they are seen as outdated by the younger generation. With the rise of streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music, young people have grown up with instant access to a vast library of music at their fingertips.
For those who grew up with CDs, it may be a nostalgic throwback to a time when physical media was cherished. The act of carefully removing the CD from its case, placing it in the CD player, and navigating through the tracks feels like a distant memory.
However, it's important to note that physical media still has its dedicated fan base. Vinyl records, for example, have experienced a resurgence in recent years, with collectors and music enthusiasts appreciating the tactile experience and unique sound quality they offer.
Ultimately, the video captures a moment of cultural shift and technological progress. It serves as a reminder that as technology continues to advance, new generations will inevitably have different experiences and interactions with music and other forms of media.
In the case of Taylor Swift's young fans, they may no longer need to worry about getting CDs out of their cases since they can simply stream her music on their smartphones or other devices. The ease and convenience of streaming have transformed the way we consume and interact with music, making CDs a relic of the past for many.