In times of hardship, economic or otherwise, people turn to music for solace, energy, and much-needed escapism. That’s why, in 2025, recession pop - those euphoric, high-energy tracks that defined the late 2000s - is making a roaring comeback.
This electrifying blend of euphoric beats and carefree lyrics isn’t just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it’s a timely reminder of how music provides solace in tough times. From TikTok to top radio charts, the rejuvenated soundscape is a necessary escape for many grappling with inflation and layoffs.
What is recession pop?
Originating during the economic turmoil of the late 2000s, this infectious genre encapsulated an era of dance-floor anthems designed to help listeners forget their worries. Tracks like Lady Gaga’s “Just Dance”, the Black Eyed Peas’ “I Gotta Feeling”, and Kesha’s “Tik Tok” were not just hit songs; they became anthems of resilience, encouraging people to let loose and find joy in the chaos.
@rod 2008 recession pop making a big comeback in 2025 is terrifying and nostalgic #millennial #throwback #nostalgia #90skids ♬ Damaged - Danity Kane
Fast forward to today, and just when it feels like we’re spiraling into a familiar pattern of economic distress, recession pop is booming once more.
“You can tell we’re spiraling into another recession because of how good pop music is getting again,” exclaimed TikTok user @goosefraud in a viral video, exemplifying the broad recognition of this trend. Accompanying her words was Charli XCX’s “Club classics”, which quintessentially echoes those ride-or-die late 00s vibes.
The resurgence of recession pop has impressive momentum, boosted further by the recent success of Kesha’s “Joyride” and Lady Gaga’s vibrant “Abracadabra”, tracks that audibly pulse with the energy of escapism.
The genre's comeback has been lauded at prestigious music awards, with “Brat” - an album embodying the genre - claiming accolades at both the Grammys and Brit Awards. It’s clear: the term ‘recession pop’ is not just a passing joke; it’s shaping the contemporary music landscape.
@spencewuah stock markets crashing but at least we got this banger #fyp ♬ Abracadabra - Lady Gaga
As listeners seek a breather from the wearisome, their choices reflect an innate desire for joy amidst turbulence. Spotify and Apple Music playlists are filled with high-energy tracks that are more than just musical ear candy; they resonate with our collective yearning to dance away our worries.
Curious about getting on the bandwagon? Below is a short list of essential tracks that define this genre's resurgence.
In the face of challenges, these high-energy tracks serve as a reminder that even when times are tough, a little escapism goes a long way. So crank up the volume, lose yourself in the beat and let recession pop remind you that it’s okay to celebrate life, even amid uncertainty.
- “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga
- “Time Of Our Lives” by Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo
- “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” by Usher featuring Pitbull
- “Tik Tok” by Kesha
- “Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna
- “Applause” by Lady Gaga
- “ I Gotta Feeling” by Black Eyed Peas
- “We Can’t Stop” by Miley Cyrus
- “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga
- “Hallucinate” by Dua Lipa