Exploring 21st Century Communication Methods Through Lyrics: Email, Text, and Tweet

Communication in the 21st century has evolved significantly, with the advent of technologies like email, text messaging, and social media platforms that allow us to interact with others more efficiently and promptly than ever before. These modern methods have woven their way into popular culture, including the lyrics of songs that have become a part of our musical heritage. In this article, we explore three songs that specifically mention email, text messaging, and tweeting, highlighting how these technologies are embedded in modern life.

The First Song Mentioning Email: "Not Tonight" by The New Cars

"Not Tonight" by The New Cars (2006, featuring Todd Rundgren on lead vocals)

In the song "Not Tonight," Todd Rundgren introduces an interesting twist by mentioning an email:

"So put me in your Blackberry
And I'll take your email
And we'll meet when the time is right
But not tonight"

This verse is a charming interlude that introduces the idea of a digital connection, contrasting the traditional diner scene with a modern, instant form of communication. This mention of an email in the song highlights how people are using technology to communicate and plan encounters instantly, reflecting the evolving dynamics of modern dating and interaction.

The Element of Text in Popular Music

Text messaging, often referred to as 'texting,' has become a ubiquitous form of communication, especially among younger generations. While there isn't an extensive list of songs that mention texting directly, it has often been alluded to in lyrics as a key means of communication:

"22" by Taylor Swift (2014)

Taylor Swift's hit single "22" has a verse where she references digital communication:

"He thinking he's too good for a message,
I spent the whole day sending tweets
And phones callin' like I don't exist"

In this part of the song, Swift's lyrics suggest that text messaging can sometimes feel like a secondary form of communication compared to more personal interactions. This verse, however, also underscores the importance of digital communication in the digital age, highlighting the stark contrast between digital messages and more immediate forms of contact.

Twitter and Its Place in Pop Culture

Twitter, as a real-time microblogging platform, has profoundly influenced modern communication and social interactions. Here's an example of a song that inadvertently references tweeting, though not specifically:

"Tangerine Dream" by The (2012)

In their song "Tangerine Dream," The Ve. mentions a fleeting moment that could be interpreted as tweeting:

"I'm sending a tweet to my best friend
She's lost in a crowded city, there's no sign"

While the term "tweet" is not explicitly used in the song, the reference to sending a message to a friend in a busy urban environment can certainly be likened to the act of tweeting or posting something to social media. This interpretation reflects the widespread use of social media as a key tool for personal and professional communication.

These songs, while they may not explicitly focus on electronic communication, deeply embed the elements of these technologies into the fabric of modern life. From "Not Tonight" by The New Cars to the underlying themes in The Ve. and Taylor Swift, we see how advancements in email, text messaging, and tweeting have not only transformed how people communicate but also how they express their experiences and emotions through music.

By exploring these songs, we gain insights into how 21st-century communication methods have become a natural part of the contemporary musical landscape, offering a unique window into the way technology has shaped our daily interactions and relationships.