The music industry in 2021 was marked by the rise of new artists and the return of established ones. Some notable trends and releases included:

Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour was the definitive album of the year. Driven by the alt-rock breakup anthem "drivers license" (which broke Spotify records) and the pop-punk vengeance of "good 4 u," Rodrigo did what the industry thought impossible: she created a bridge between Gen Z Disney fans and 90s alternative rock nostalgia.

Pop culture significantly influences media consumption. Trends in music, movies, and television shows often dictate what is popular and what is not.

But as Leo turned off the TV, he realized 2021 wasn't just about the "content." It was about the fact that even when the world was physically distanced, a catchy song, a high-stakes game, or a superhero's return could make the world feel small, connected, and—for a few hours—entirely shared.

While 2020 was about binging old sitcoms, 2021 saw a return to "appointment viewing" for new high-concept shows.