whiney

Whiney: A History of Music That Makes You Want to Cry (and Laugh)

Whiney: it’s not a genre, it’s a state of being. A feeling that echoes through the decades, from blues wails to emo breakdowns. But while whiney music can evoke a range of emotions, it also offers a surprising amount of humor.

The Roots of Whiney:

• The Blues: From the deep sorrow of Robert Johnson’s “Crossroads” to the plaintive cries of Bessie Smith, the blues laid the foundation for whiney music. It’s about the pain, the struggle, the heartache.
• Country: The twangy guitar, the mournful lyrics – country music is full of whiney moments. Think Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” or Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.”
• Folk: Folk music, with its focus on storytelling and social commentary, often takes a whiney turn. Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” is a classic example.

Whiney in the Modern Age:

• Emo: In the 90s and 2000s, emo bands like My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy brought whiney to the forefront. Emo embraced the pain, the angst, and the heartbreak of youth, resulting in music filled with power chords and mournful vocals.
• Indie Pop: Indie pop often deals with heartbreak and loneliness, but with a more whimsical, dreamy approach. Artists like The Postal Service and The National have mastered the art of making you cry while simultaneously nodding your head.

Funny Whiney Facts:

• Emo Bands and Their Love of Makeup: Emo was all about expressing your emotions, and for some, that included wearing heavy eyeliner and black nail polish.
• The “My Chemical Romance” Meme: The band’s music is often associated with angsty teens, but the song “Welcome to the Black Parade” has become a meme for its dramatic, operatic style.
• Whiney Songs About Animals: Remember “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton? It’s about a song about the death of his son, but some people think it’s about a cat.

Whiney: More Than Just Tears:

Whiney music might seem like it’s all about sadness, but it also offers a sense of catharsis, a way to express and process difficult emotions. It can be funny, ironic, and even empowering.

So the next time you hear a song that makes you want to cry, remember: you’re not alone. Whiney music has been a part of the human experience for centuries, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.