Have you noticed artists such as Fetty Wap, Justin Bieber, Calvin Harris and Drake resurfacing more frequently on the radio and across social media platforms? It’s been suggested that 2026 is the new 2016, a revival shaped by nostalgic trends, and most of all, music.
Major festivals such as Coachella are featuring some of these artists, even returning as headliners. Interestingly, many of them performed at the height of their popularity in 2016 and are now reclaiming the stage a decade later in 2026.
Denise Bedolla, who was a teenager during the peak of the 2010’s feels very nostalgic about 2026 being the new 2016.
“2016 coming back is 100% nostalgic to me,” Bedolla said.
Justin Bieber, a headliner for Coachella 2026 is an example of a relevance and longevity in the industry. Last year, he released the album “Swag,” featuring songs such as “Yukon” and “Daisies” which maintained a significant drive into 2026. In 2016, Bieber was a dominant presence in the pop music industry with multiple singles topping the Billboard Year-End Hot 100.
Bedolla says “Sorry” was one of her favorite songs from Bieber in 2016, which ranked on the Billboard Year-End Hot 100, just behind “Love Yourself.”
Drake also remains a dominant force. Many think he was just as influential if not more in 2016 as he is today.
“Drake continues to stay relevant and release hit albums, so I would definitely still want to see him,” Bedolla said.
Alyssa Ceja who attended many concerts during that time and was just two years out of college in 2016. Ceja would attend a Drake concert with the same energy and excitement she had in 2016.
“I would still like to see Drake,” Ceja said.
In 2016, Drake released massive hit singles such as “One Dance” and “Hotline Bling.” These tracks gained a lot of popularity, dominating radio stations and social media platforms.
“One of my favorite songs by Drake has to be ‘One Dance’” Bedolla said.
Even today, they remain favorites among those who feel nostalgic for the 2016 era.
In 2025, Drake released the album “Some Sexy Songs 4 U” on February 14, followed by an album in 2026 called “Iceman.” Songs like “Nokia” quickly gained attention across social media for its feel-good energy.
Freshman Genesis Duran attended the MCHS Winter Formal in February 2026. She noted that many of the songs played from the 2016 era.
“There was a lot of 2016 pop music, including Katy Perry,” Duran said.
The resurgence of 2016 pop music is not only evident on social media but also at local events such as school dances, showing its lasting impact.
A decade later, the music of 2016 hasn’t simply survived, it has resurfaced with new energy. Drake and Justin Bieber hits today continue to shape how this generation listens, celebrates and connects. Its revival across social media and locally demonstrates that impactful artistry does not fade with time. Instead, it evolves, resonating with new audiences while reemphasizing long term relevance.
