From Swiftie lore to BTS deep dives: The best books for the Gen Z who lives & breathes music
If there is one generation that embodies the phrase 'a beat in my heart and a song on my lips,' it is Gen Z. Whether on the metro, in a cab, doing household chores, or even filing monotonous paperwork at work, this generation moves through life to the rhythm of their soundtrack. With curated playlists for every mood and an ever-present pair of earbuds, music is bow a lifeline, a companion, and a form of self-expression. From the introspective lyricism of Taylor Swift to the genre-defying sounds of BTS, here are five books that music enthusiasts might like to add to their bookshelves or audiobook libraries:
A year after the release of The Tortured Poets Department, The Taylor Swift Book by Malcolm Mackenzie stands out as an ambitious attempt to codify the legacy of one of this generation's most influential cultural figures. Originally released in Kindle format in 2024, the book was marketed as the 'ultimate guide' to Swift's music, evolution, and myth-making. True to its promise, it offers a sweeping overview of Swift's career: from her early days as Nashville's teen prodigy to her present-day status as a global tastemaker, mogul, and lyrical auteur. It's not an authorised biography, but is part discography, part cultural commentary, part fan encyclopedia. Organised around albums and 'eras,' Mackenzie traces Swift's sonic experimentation: from country twang to synth-pop, indie folk to literary pop noir. The book's standout features include detailed breakdowns of Easter eggs, lyrical references, and song-by-song analyses It also touches on her fashion evolution, music video symbolism, and political outspokenness, giving readers a panoramic view of the artist not just as a performer, but as a cultural architect. If there's a limitation, it is that the book occasionally leans more celebratory than critical.
Foor uses the artist's 2024 Met Gala appearance as a focal point to explore Dosanjh's rise from rural Punjab to international recognition in music, film, and fashion. The biography outlines Dosanjh's early struggles, entry into the Punjabi music industry, transition to Bollywood, and his increasing global profile. It also includes commentary on his public image, religious identity, and approach to style. The sections on the Met Gala provide behind-the-scenes context and consider how Dosanjh's appearance was received both within South Asian communities and the broader public.
Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS was released in 2023 to commemorate the 10 year anniversary of the internationally popular K-pop band's debut. Now, two years on, the book merits a revisit as Suga (Min Yoongi), the last of the group members serving South Korea's mandatory military service has been discharged. Now, all seven members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—have officially completed their national duties, and fans are eagerly waiting for their next project. Written by veteran K-pop journalist Myeongseok Kang, Beyond the Story was the first authorised chronicle of BTS's rise, spanning pre-debut struggles, chart-topping triumphs, and cultural impact. Structured in seven parts and compiled from over three years of interviews and archival reporting, the book eschews the gloss of celebrity for candour as members often without cameras or makeup. The book also leans into BTS's digital-native identity, with over 330 QR codes linking to trailers, music videos, and behind-the-scenes content. Pairing narrative with audiovisual memory, the book offers an immersive experience.
Author William K Jones offers a chronicle of the artist's meteoric rise, from SoundCloud anonymity as Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini to viral stardom, Grammy wins, and cultural ubiquity. Released in May 2024, the book arrived at a time when Doja Cat has leaned further into subversion, stylistically, sonically, and personally. The title gestures at transformation, and Jones takes readers through the artist's many phases: the pastel-glossed pop darling of 'Say So', the darker, genre-fusing provocateur of 'Scarlet', and the internet-native icon whose career is as shaped by memes and controversy as it is by chart performance. What the book does best is document the work behind the spectacle. Through interviews and reported vignettes, we see how singles such as 'Juicy,' 'Kiss Me More,' and 'Attention' came to be. It also addresses personal elements, the struggles with fame, clashes with fan culture, and digital spats. Visually, the book is a feast. Behind-the-scenes photos, fan art, and stage shots make this a tactile experience, more coffee-table keepsake than traditional biography.
Written by cultural critic and journalist Miles Marshall Lewis, the book offers a portrait of the Pulitzer Prize–winning rapper as a chronicler of a generation's inner life. Lamar, a Compton, California native raised amid gang violence and West Coast legacy, has been deeply rooted in Black American storytelling. Lewis traces his journey not just through biography, but through his poetry, dissecting the literary and sociopolitical forces at play in albums such as good kid, m.A.A.d city, To Pimp a Butterfly, DAMN., and Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. Interwoven with commentary from figures such as Ta-Nehisi Coates and Alicia Garza, the book reads like a conversation between Kendrick's music and the cultural moment that shaped, and was shaped by, it. Visually, the book is striking: dense with lyric excerpts, graphic design flourishes, and photographs that situate Lamar as a cultural icon.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
NFL star Travis Kelce spotted with Taylor Swift during cozy NYC date—Viral video sparks romance buzz
Travis Kelce spotted with Taylor Swift during cozy NYC date (Image credits: Instagram/X) In a rare public sighting that lit up social media, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were spotted enjoying a romantic late-night dinner in New York City. The couple, known for keeping things low-key, made headlines after being caught on camera sharing a tender moment outside a popular Italian restaurant. Fans were quick to swoon over the viral video showing Kelce holding Swift's hand as he helped her into a black SUV. It was a quiet but telling gesture that added fuel to ongoing buzz around their deepening bond. Hand-in-hand exit sparks viral reaction After dining privately in Manhattan's SoHo district, the couple drew attention as they exited the venue under the soft glow of streetlights. Paparazzi captured the exact moment Kelce gently guided Swift toward their ride, holding her hand in a smooth, protective move. The clip, now widely circulated online, showcases their growing comfort as a public couple despite intense media glare. Though subtle, the interaction reflected a more intimate, unguarded side of the duo rarely seen in public outings. Style spotlight: Comfort meets nostalgia Both Kelce and Swift kept things casual yet stylish for their evening out, sparking praise for their fashion chemistry. The NFL star wore an oversized white US Soccer T-shirt, paired with white shorts and matching sneakers—laid-back yet fresh. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo Swift complemented the summer mood with a light-blue corseted tank top, a white pleated mini-skirt, and chic white stilettos. Her outfit was not just stylish but an echo of her 1989 era aesthetic, delighting longtime fans. This quiet yet visually memorable date night follows a string of shared appearances—from Palm Beach getaways to Stanley Cup sightings—each revealing more of their evolving relationship. While rumors of engagement have swirled for months, neither has confirmed anything official, though Swift has referred to Kelce as her "boyfriend" in recent conversations. For now, their NYC moment stands as another glimpse into their growing closeness, captured candidly in the city that never sleeps. Also read: Why is Travis Kelce called 'Big Yeti' — the hairy, hilarious origin of the Chiefs star's most unexpected nickname As Kelce gears up for a demanding NFL season and Swift wraps her global Eras Tour, their rare moments together are becoming snapshots of modern celebrity romance—low-key, authentic, and impossible to ignore. Follow all the live updates, scores, and highlights from the India vs England Test match here . Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Carmelo Anthony's ex-wife La La Anthony drops a major life update along with Met Gala BTS moments on Instagram
La La Anthony via Instagram Former NBA star Carmelo Anthony's ex-wife, La La Anthony , is in the glow and grow phase of her life. The Hollywood star turned heads during the 2025 Met Gala event. Despite being flocked by reputed celebrities and social media personalities, Lala Anthony stood out with respect to her attire and pose. Recently, the BMF actor posted a slew of pictures from the 2025 Met Gala events showcasing the BTS moments and even gave a major update on her new perspective in life. Carmelo Anthony's ex-wife La La Anthony shares BTS from the 2025 Met Gala event F ormer NBA star Carmelo Anthony's ex-wife La La Anthony likes to keep her 15 million followers updated on social media. The Hollywood actor recently shared pictures from the 2025 Met Gala event. She posted the BTS pictures from the Met Gala with a caption. "Whole lotta life.' The Power actor even gave a major update on her new perspective with respect to her life. La La Anthony posted a picture that clearly reflected her positive mindset for the rest of the 6 months of 2025. The post mentioned 'I just want a healthy everything.' The Instagram photo dump also had snippets from the major to minor events of her life recently. La La Anthony flaunted her perfectly toned body in an archival off-white design by the late Virgil Abloh, one of the most popular names in the fashion industry. During a recent interview with the reputed media outlet Vogue, Anthony spoke about the legacy of Abloh. She said, "Virgil was more than a designer—he was a visionary, he was my friend, and someone who changed the entire game for so many of us. I wanted to carry his legacy with me throughout the evening to remind people of the doors he opened and the culture he built. It wasn't just fashion. It was love, history, and respect wrapped up in a beautiful garment." Carmelo Anthony's ex-wife, La La Anthony, stepped out in an off-white dress from Virgil Abloh that featured half of a white tulle gown, and the second half was a black jumpsuit bedazzled with Lorraine Schwartz's diamonds that added to her ensemble look on the starry night. Also Read: NBA champion Kevin Durant expands partnership with QSI after buying stakes in Paris Saint-Germain Follow all the live updates, scores, and highlights from the India vs England Test match here . Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
What's in the cards for BTS? Tarot reading reveals powerful shifts for Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook
The biggest group in the world - BTS - is finally reunited! All seven members - Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook - have officially returned to civilian life. While celebrations have been ongoing in South Korea and around the world, their fans known as ARMY are also wondering what lies ahead for the members and their future as a group. An online tarot reading by an ARMY is sparking talks across the fandom, thanks to how the messages seem to align with each BTS member. While tarot may not be rooted in science - and much depends on the interpretation - this particular spread struck a chord. 걱정이 없다 진짜 .....가보자고......달려보자고..... As BTS steps into a new era, here's what the tarot suggests could be written in the stars for them. RM (Kim Namjoon): Crossroads, contemplation, and a fast-moving future Cards pulled: Knight of Pentacles, The Hanged Man, Eight of Wands RM's tarot spread screams transformation. The Knight shows dedication and slow, steady growth. But then comes The Hanged Man - a moment to pause, reflect, and shift perspective. And just as he breathes, the Eight of Wands appears: action, rapid changes, decisions flying in fast. This perfectly aligns with RM's post-enlistment moment. As leader, he's clearly at a pivotal turning point - processing his own evolution while preparing to help steer BTS into its next era. Jin (Kim Seokjin): Movement, leadership - and the need to rest Cards pulled: Knight of Wands, Four of Swords, King of Swords Jin's spread is a complex one. The Knight of Wands shows excitement, passion, and a drive to explore new horizons - possibly hinting at a solo tour or major new venture. But the Four of Swords reminds him to pause, reflect, and rest. The King of Swords then steps in - demanding clarity, leadership, and authority. In short, Jin may be ready to take bold steps, but he's also being urged to balance it with recovery and reflection. Leading with logic and care will be key. SUGA (Min Yoongi): Seeking truth, letting go, and beginning again Cards pulled: Justice, Eight of Cups, Ace of Swords SUGA's spread is a direct reflection of where he is emotionally: accountability, balance, and the pursuit of deeper meaning. Justice calls for clarity and truth - not just to the world, but to oneself. The Eight of Cups signals a personal departure, walking away from what no longer serves him. Finally, the Ace of Swords delivers the promise of a fresh start. This trio feels eerily similar to the tone of Yoongi's heartfelt homecoming letter, posted just hours after this reading was done by an ARMY. He's not just back - he's recalibrating, realigning, and preparing for something more meaningful. J-Hope (Jung Hoseok): Power, prosperity, and legacy Cards pulled: The Magician, Ten of Pentacles, Nine of Pentacles J-Hope is in his manifestation era. With The Magician, he channels power and purpose. The Ten and Nine of Pentacles show that hard work has paid off - he's standing in financial stability, personal freedom, and a legacy in motion. This reading reflects Hobi's discipline over the last year - since his discharge from the military - as he carefully curated his time, money, and music. He's not just thriving; he's flourishing. Jimin (Park Jimin): Trust, teamwork, and a new cycle begins Cards pulled: Three of Pentacles, Wheel of Fortune, The Hierophant Jimin's cards speak of deep trust in his people and process. The Three of Pentacles emphasizes collaboration - perfectly symbolizing BTS' reunion. The Wheel of Fortune signals change, while The Hierophant brings guidance and tradition. Altogether, the cards suggest Jimin is leaning into BTS as his home base through this transition - trusting the flow, embracing change, and staying grounded in shared values. V (Kim Taehyung): Curiosity, community, and heartfelt connection Cards pulled: Page of Swords, Six of Pentacles, Three of Cups V's cards center on learning, growing, and deepening social bonds. The Page of Swords signals a thirst for knowledge and exploration. The Six of Pentacles reminds him to give and receive in balance, while the Three of Cups celebrates joy, friendship, and reunion. Whether it's music, acting, or BTS, Taehyung is likely to immerse himself in meaningful work surrounded by people he trusts. He's reconnecting - with fans, friends, and purpose. Jungkook (Jeon Jeongguk): Awakening, creativity, and dreams fulfilled Cards pulled: Judgement, Knight of Cups, Nine of Cups Jungkook's reading is glowing. Judgment marks rebirth and reflection, while the Knight of Cups brings dreamy energy, emotional connection, and creative passion. The Nine of Cups? Pure wish fulfillment. This is the maknae awakening - again - as an artist, possibly preparing for his next solo wave or group comeback. Whatever he's dreaming, the cards suggest it's closer than he thinks. The verdict: A new chapter begins If this tarot reading is any clue, BTS isn't just back - they're about to move forward with new clarity, purpose, and energy. Each member's spread reflects a personal transformation, but collectively, they point toward a bigger reunion. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
