Tanisha Madhukar - Blog 15 - Bieberchella

Last weekend was Coachella, a music festival held every year where influencers go to the desert to party while the people at home judge their every move. Filled with artists, young and old, it has something for everyone. A major artist who performed this year was Justin Bieber. 

Justin Bieber should need no introduction but in case you need one, Bieber began his career at the age of 14 and his popularity skyrocketed as more discovered the young boy’s charisma and ability to carry a tune. Since then he has grown to be one of the most nostalgic artists, often making music for teens and young adults. 


During Coachella, Bieber performed his song “Beauty and a Beat” (2012). As the Youtube video played, he began singing in, what most would consider for him, a monotone voice. However, once the chorus began to pick up his voice jumped an octave and everyone was transported back to the wonderful time that was 2016. 


While I don’t remember much from 2016 I do remember the absolute bangers that were released that year. I, arguably, find that 2016 was the era of elite pop-music. Although this particular song was released in 2012, the time-frame it emulates is what I find 2016 was all about. 


Although 7 year-old me didn’t know much she did know the lyrics to every song that was played on the radio. As I have grown older I am amazed by my ability to recite songs that I haven’t heard in over 10 years. Nothing can compare to the sudden wave of nostalgia that hits me every time I listen to one of these songs. 


While I don’t think I’ll ever experience the same bliss that I had 10 years ago I’m glad that there are reminders of a time when things were easier. 


 


Photo Credits: https://www.newsweek.com/entertainment/music/justin-bieber-coachella-review-why-critics-missed-the-point-11817342 

Comments

  1. Romir SApril 19, 2026 at 12:18 PM

    Tanisha, this is so relatable. I, too, feel like 2016 specifically carries such a strong sense of nostalgia. Your part about remembering lyrics even though we haven't heard these songs in years is honestly remarkable; I guess that our young selves just so subconsciously locked in—a skill that has sadly faded over the years, for me at least. But more about 2016, have you seen the 2026 is the new 2016 trend. I remember my entire fyp in January was that. I feel like a part of why that was so big was because we miss that time so much, which is sort of what you hint at at the end of your blog. I think a significant part of this for me is because of the Warriors dynasty and how good we were (we just lost our ticket to the playoffs; I still have not recovered).

    I also feel like Justin Bieber is one of the most timeless artists we have. Not just because of his old songs, but also because of how consistent he is with he newer ones. Swag and Swag 2—in my opinion—were amazing. Not to mention the entire Justice album.

    Thank you for taking us on a trip down memory lane and reminding us of the great, great year that 2016 was.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Harshi PannalaApril 21, 2026 at 5:36 PM

    Tanisha, how could I not comment on your blog. Hello! Bieberchella! “Beauty and a Beat” has been playing non-stop out of my Spotify application. The second I knew he was performing, I made sure I was on the livestream. At first, I was scared he would try to maintain his nonchalant image and stick to only his more recent discography. Then, I saw his glorious teenage face on the big screen behind him and an embarrassingly high screech exited my body. When I heard the voice change that you mentioned I knew I would be unwell for a couple of days. The only parallel I can draw with Bieber-Fever is perhaps Elvis Presley’s fanbase, minus the government intervention—I just discussed it in history today so had to include it.
    The phenomenon you explained of being able to sing songs you haven’t heard in so long is a shared experience. Legendary music just cannot be forgotten I guess. Which is a relief I suppose. On that note, I agree that 2016 was genuinely a time filled with bangers. It was glorious. The day I forgot the beautiful lyrics to a Bieber classic, I am afraid I might genuinely contemplate my life.
    The way you referenced the 2016 era as an “easier time” made me realize I don’t want to view my current life as a difficult time. Moreover, I don’t want to overly idealize my life as an eight year old. Perhaps, we can just lie to ourselves and act like this is the easiest time of our lives. I mean when else are we going to be 17 prior to college and real jobs with all of our friends living close to us.

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