The Rise of Conservatism in Music: A Cultural Reflection

When you see a tagline like "Conservatism is rising. Just look at the music," you know there’s going to be a response coming. This assertion, made by Devika Rao in The Week US, suggests a significant cultural shift reflected in the music charts, particularly the rise of "tradpop"—a genre blending traditional pop with spiritual and country music elements. Rao argues that this trend mirrors a broader societal movement towards conservative values, especially in light of the current political climate.

The Argument for Conservatism in Music

Rao’s article posits that the inclusion of Christian-centered works in the Top 40/Top 50 charts throughout the summer of 2025 signifies a resurgence of conservative values in American pop culture. Citing sources like Rolling Stone, Vox, and NPR, she connects this musical trend to the nostalgic sentiments stirred by political campaigns, particularly the "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) slogan. This nostalgia, she argues, has catalyzed a cultural desire to return to traditional values, which is now being echoed in the music that dominates the airwaves.

The article highlights that since Donald Trump’s presidency, Christian and Christian-adjacent music has gained traction in mainstream culture, capturing the zeitgeist of a politically polarized era. Rao claims that "Christian-coded music has finally broken containment and conquered the airwaves," suggesting that this genre is no longer relegated to niche markets but is now a significant player in the pop music landscape.

A Closer Look at the Charts

While Rao’s argument presents a compelling narrative, a closer examination of the Top 40/50 charts from August to September 2025 reveals a more nuanced picture. Yes, there are artists with conservative values making their mark, but the overall landscape is far more diverse. The presence of a few faith-based artists does not necessarily indicate a sweeping cultural shift.

For instance, when examining the charts, artists like Hunrx Ejae and Audrey Nuna rank highly, while Alex Warren, a favored artist in Rao’s article, holds a lower position. This raises questions about the strength of the argument that conservatism is dominating the charts. The close rankings of various artists suggest a more complex interplay of musical influences rather than a clear-cut conservative resurgence.

The Diversity of Contemporary Music

The Top 40/50 charts include a wide array of genres and themes, many of which stand in stark contrast to the conservative values highlighted by Rao. For example, artists like Kendrick Lamar and SZA, known for their provocative and often politically charged lyrics, occupy significant positions on these charts. This diversity indicates that while there may be a rise in certain conservative-themed songs, they coexist with a plethora of other musical styles that reflect a broader cultural spectrum.

Moreover, the argument that the charts reflect a cultural shift towards conservatism overlooks the substantial presence of artists whose work is rooted in themes of rebellion, sexuality, and social commentary. The reality is that the majority of chart-topping songs still align more closely with contemporary pop culture’s prevailing trends, which often lean towards the provocative and the avant-garde.

The Role of Tradpop

Tradpop, as a term, has emerged to describe this hybrid genre that incorporates traditional pop elements with spiritual and country influences. While it may resonate with certain audiences, positioning it as a dominant genre risks oversimplifying the complexities of contemporary music. The term itself suggests a subgenre, indicating that its influence is limited compared to the broader pop landscape.

Songs categorized under tradpop often emphasize themes of family, faith, and personal values. However, this focus does not negate the existence of a vast array of other musical narratives that continue to thrive in the mainstream. The notion that tradpop is reclaiming the charts may be more reflective of a momentary trend rather than a lasting cultural shift.

The Influence of Major Labels

The involvement of major labels like Sony in promoting artists within the tradpop genre adds another layer to this discussion. While it may appear that these labels are endorsing a conservative musical movement, the reality is more complex. The term "featured" in relation to artists like Jelly Roll and Brandon Lake on the Billboard Hot 100 can be misleading. It suggests a level of prominence that may not accurately reflect their actual standing in the competitive landscape of pop music.

The relationship between major labels and the artists they promote is often driven by market trends and consumer demand rather than a concerted effort to push a specific ideological agenda. This distinction is crucial for understanding the dynamics at play in the music industry.

Analyzing the Cultural Landscape

The cultural landscape of music is multifaceted and ever-evolving. While there may be a noticeable presence of conservative values in certain songs, it is essential to contextualize this within the broader spectrum of contemporary music. The charts reflect a wide range of influences, and to claim that conservatism is the prevailing narrative risks oversimplifying the rich tapestry of artistic expression available today.

In examining the charts, one must consider the various genres and themes that coexist. The presence of artists who challenge traditional norms and push boundaries remains a significant aspect of the pop music scene. This diversity is not merely a backdrop but a vital component of the cultural discourse surrounding music today.

Conclusion

The assertion that conservatism is rising in music, as articulated by Devika Rao, opens up a vital conversation about the intersection of culture and politics. However, a critical examination of the charts and the broader musical landscape reveals a more complex reality. While there are indeed artists reflecting conservative values, they exist alongside a multitude of voices that continue to shape the narrative of contemporary pop culture. Understanding this dynamic is essential for anyone looking to grasp the current state of music and its cultural implications.