Singing in the Rain: A Content Analysis of Hurricane Evacuation Playlists and the case for Music Playlists as Historical Disaster Artifacts

Every weather disaster is a potential historical event. Researchers use artifacts as references and example to build the story of record. Digital music apps and streaming platforms allow users to create custom playlists for any occasion. Playlists created for use during or in response to a weather disaster present a unique type of artifact. This study regards playlists as artifacts that might offer cultural insight into the lives of those affected by hurricanes – in this case, 2022’s Hurricane Ian. A content analysis was conducted to build a profile of user-created Spotify playlists referencing Hurricane Ian. A discussion includes results of the study as well as a defense for playlists as artifacts of historical events.