philip lelyveld The world of entertainment technology

No more Mozart? Americans streaming habits reflect what life will sound like after the pandemic

Mainstream sources of entertainment are back as people prepare for reentry into society after the yearlong isolation of COVID-19

But before they ditch their sweatpants and kiss their “pandemic pets” goodbye before spending their first workdays without them, they’re rehearsing what life might feel — and sound — like in a world with few COVID restrictions.

In doing so, they’re listening to fast-paced electronic and rap songs by artists like Lil Nas X, Jacob Collier and The Weeknd and watching office comedy shows like NBC’s  CMCSA, -1.40% “30 Rock,” according to data from TasteDive, a recommendation engine. They’re also listening to “99% Invisible” a podcast about urban architecture and infrastructure.

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Adults, meanwhile, are taking a break from classic novels like Leo Tolstoy’s “Anna Karenina,” as well as Michelle Obama’s autobiography, “Becoming,” which was one of the most read books during lockdowns last year, according to data from The New York Public Library.

Instead, Americans are reading murder mysteries like “The Guest List,” by Lucy Foley, and travel books according to TasteDive.

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See the full story here: https://www.marketwatch.com/story/americans-are-turning-to-lil-nas-x-and-30-rock-to-prepare-for-the-roaring-20s-life-after-the-pandemic-11617970047