In the age of social media, where music clips become viral trends or background soundtracks to countless videos, certain songs can become overexposed or used in contexts that detract from their original essence. For me, a prime example is “All Star” by Smash Mouth. Originally released in 1999, the song enjoyed success as a catchy pop-rock anthem. However, it has since become synonymous with internet memes and humorous parodies, particularly following its use in the “Shrek” movie soundtrack.
The repeated and often ironic use of “All Star” across platforms like TikTok, Vine, and YouTube has transformed it from a song I once enjoyed into a cultural reference that often overshadows its musical value. Each time I’ve encountered it online, it tends to be in a comedic context, leaving me with the feeling that its artistic original intent has been overshadowed by its meme status. This transformation illustrates how social media can alter the perception of a song, changing how it resonates with listeners who were initially drawn to its original form.
