Similarities
In terms of music, there is no single genre that defined any of the decades. Various music styles kept on emerging and controlling a significant part of the audience (Reese 1). Each genre had a particular target audience. As a result, no single genre of music managed to define any of the decades.
In both decades, individuals kept up with the latest styles by watching TV and observing what their favorite celebrities wore (Reese 1). Moreover, some of the fashion choices were derived from looks from past decades. Given that music and having good times were common in both decades, individuals wore clothes to reflect that. Hence, artists were critical in both decades in determining the fashion choices of their listeners.
In terms of political movements, individuals in both decades were fighting for something. For instance, in the 1960s, civil rights movements involved the fight for racial and gender equality (Ware 1087). Activists were at the forefront in advocating for equal rights between men and women and between the whites and the people of color. Similarly, in the 90s, civil rights movements focused on the fight for gay and lesbian rights. Individuals at this time believed that society was wrong to discriminate against individuals because of their sexual orientation.
Differences
While music genres in the 60s were fewer, the 90s were marked by an emergence of new genres. The most popular genres during this time were folk music, R&B, and psychedelic music. Musicians were trying to come up with new genres to take advantage of another generation, especially that of urban young people. As a result, rap music and pop music emerged due to urban dissatisfaction (Thompson 1).
On fashion, clothing was colorful in the 60s. Bell-bottom pants and mini-skirts became common. Both men and men started having long hair. In the 90s, fashion was more down-to-earth compared to the 60s; the colorful clothing was replaced by plain clothes with many people wearing jeans.
Regarding political issues, the 60s was marked by racial tensions and racial disturbances (Ware 1087). At the same time, Americans were divided over the Vietnam War. The young people were much opposed to the war, which created sharp divisions in the country. Due to such divisions, violence was the order of the day as individuals were willing to die for what they believed. By contrast, individuals in the 90s were not passionate about political issues. Instead of focusing on political issues, people were more inclined towards accumulating wealth and gaining fame. Commercialization had infiltrated many aspects of life, which forced individuals to abandon political causes in favor of accumulating wealth.
How it was to be a teenager in 60s
Being a teenager during this time meant more concern for accumulating wealth and gaining fame. Rather than opposing government policies as it was in the 1960s, being a teenager meant having ways to make quick money. The commercialization of the music and fashion industry meant that teenagers were willing to do whatever it took to become famous. Furthermore, being a teenager during the 60s meant being an active participant in the political issues in the country. For instance, teenagers would be aware of the various government policies so that they can contribute to political issues.
Conclusion
Music, fashion, and politics have been instrumental in influencing trends in America. The three have been instrumental in influencing generations in a particular direction. While both 60s and 90s share some similarities, they also have significant differences. Being a teenager in the 60s entailed being active in political affairs.
