💼 #NationalInternDay: Today's the day to honor all the hardworking, bright interns out there! Brands, this is a great opportunity to show off your team. Here's how GMA did it.
👽Aliens: The internet is buzzing after hearing former US Air Force intelligence officer David Grush claim, under oath, that the US government possesses UFOs and non-human bodies. What else? That we've been aware of 'non-human' activity since the 1930s.
🥵 Heat Advisory: High temperatures are sweeping various parts of the nation today, adding to conversations around global warming. It also doesn't help that we got this news.
The Nu Metal Renaissance 🤘
What it is: Unlike the typical expression of Y2K that we've seen take over Gen Z culture (bubbblegum pink, velour tracksuits, chunky sneakers, pleated skirts, baguette bags, colorful sunglasses, etc.), this trend is different. Those playing into their mid-’90s/early 2000s aesthetic are now leaning into their era of *teenage angst.* The revival of teenage angst stems from Gen Z's exploration of nu metal (a subgenre that blends metal with hip-hop, funk, & alternative rock) with the resurgence of Linkin Park, Deftones, & Slipknot fans. With lyrics tackling dark subjects like pain, depression, & alienation, this genre has found a second life as it encourages a liberating ‘I don’t care’ attitude post-COVID teens love. There's also appeal in its expression — silver chains, spikes, larger than life pants, gelled/colored hair, face paint, studded belts, & chain wallets allow Gen Z to express their pent-up angst. Celebrities like Billie Eilish, Machine Gun Kelly, & Justin Bieber are catching on too.
What brands can learn:Â Brands, Nu Metal speaks to the shock value & absurdity that Gen Z craves in a post-COVID world. Counter to the bubbly, bright aesthetic we've seen stem from Y2K, this new trend allows Gen Zers who feel like outsiders embrace their doom & gloom. They're individuals who go against what's conventional and popular, all in the name of unapologetic, unique, somewhat dark self-expression. Now, we're not telling your mascots to become emo, BUT know that going against the grain can be both cool & well-respected when done right.
Examples:Â 1 / 2 / 3
💦Canned water company Liquid Death has released an album "Greatest Hates Vol 3" embodying the brand’s fearless embracing of criticism that turns hateful social media comments into creative fuel.
📀Neopets, the very game that likely started your internet addiction, embarked on a new era.Under new ownership and management, they're relaunching with John Legend as a brand ambassador.
🇫🇷The 2024 Paris Olympic & Paralympic Games are about to be the most fashionable in history.
🌈Skittles’ newest flavor will make your nose hairs curl, unless you like mustard, that is.
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