Summer anthem of 2023 identified as a romantic ballad, as per Billboard's declaration
In an unexpected turn of events, Alex Warren's love ballad "Ordinary" has been dominating Billboard's Song of the Summer chart for 14 weeks and counting. This slow, introspective song, not typically designed for summer anthem status, has become a beacon of light in these dark times, according to music psychologist Ray Leone.
The longevity of "Ordinary" on the chart is not a rare occurrence. Most of the songs on Billboard's charts have been there for dozens of weeks, a trend that has left little room for new music to break through. Only three of the top 10 songs in a mid-year report from Luminate, the company that produces data for the Billboard charts, were released in 2025.
This disinterest in new music, combined with wistful listening habits, is leading to the resurgence of "recession pop." Coined during the 2008 financial crisis, "recession pop" refers to music that was originally released leading up to and following the crisis. Songs like "Ordinary," with its heartfelt lyrics and accessible production, reflect a broad appeal among streaming audiences and strong engagement beyond just sales charts.
Music psychologist Ray Leone suggests that listeners are looking for something personal to connect to during times of chaos. Ethan Hein, an adjunct professor of music, believes the disinterest in upbeat pop signals a contempt for both the present and the future. The preference for songs like "Ordinary" could indicate a shift in listeners' well-being.
Streaming on new tracks declined by 3.3% in the first half of 2025, compared to 2024. TikTok has played a role in keeping the popularity of older songs like "Ordinary" going. The song, written about Warren's wife, has already amassed over 1.2 billion streams and has reached top positions in German charts.
The competition for "Ordinary" is scarce this year, with little new music from popular artists taking off. "Pink Pony Club" by Chappell Roan is currently at No. 8 on the summer chart and has been on the Hot 100 for 63 weeks.
In conclusion, the resurgence of "recession pop" and the preference for slower, more introspective songs like "Ordinary" could be a reflection of our current state of uncertainty. As we navigate through these challenging times, it seems that listeners are seeking comfort in the familiar and the personal.
