The Rise of ‘Legacy Planning’ in the Digital Age: How Artists Like Kesha Are Redefining Remembrance
Nearly 40% of millennials and Gen Z are thinking about their digital legacy before they hit 40, a figure that’s skyrocketing as social media becomes inextricably linked to identity. This isn’t just about passwords and account deletion; it’s a fundamental shift in how we contemplate mortality, fueled by artists like Kesha who are openly grappling with how they want to be remembered – flaws and all. Her new song, “Tennessee,” featuring Orville Peck, isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a cultural touchstone in this emerging conversation.
Kesha and the Unfiltered Afterlife
“When I leave, just celebrate/And lick the icing off my cake,” Kesha sings in “Tennessee,” a sentiment that’s a far cry from traditional notions of somber remembrance. The song, premiered by Rolling Stone, is a bold declaration of self-definition, even in death. She wants rhinestones on her tombstone, a final shot of Jack, and to be remembered as a “crazy ass bitch” who also left a “damn good legacy.” This isn’t about avoiding judgment; it’s about preemptively owning her narrative. The plea to not “sanctify” her name, coupled with the playful invocation of Dolly Parton’s approval (“Just tell ’em I’m on Dolly’s list”), speaks to a desire for authenticity over hagiography.
Beyond the Music: The ‘All Things Go’ Compilation and Charitable Impact
“Tennessee” is part of the All Things Go: 10 Years compilation album, celebrating a decade of the All Things Go music festival and benefiting The Ally Coalition, an organization supporting LGBTQ youth. This connection is crucial. The album, featuring artists like Maren Morris, Allison Ponthier, and a cover of Charli XCX’s “Sympathy Is a Knife,” demonstrates a growing trend of artists using their platforms for social good, extending their legacy beyond artistic achievement. Kesha explicitly stated her pride in contributing to The Ally Coalition, highlighting the importance of aligning personal values with creative output. The full tracklist reveals a diverse range of artists, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and representation.
The Power of Compilation Albums in a Streaming Era
In an age dominated by single releases and streaming playlists, the resurgence of the compilation album is noteworthy. All Things Go: 10 Years isn’t simply a collection of songs; it’s a curated statement, a snapshot of a musical community, and a fundraising vehicle. This model offers artists a unique opportunity to reach new audiences while supporting causes they believe in. It also provides a tangible artifact – a complete work – in a digital landscape often characterized by fragmentation. Billboard recently explored this trend, noting a surprising increase in compilation album consumption.
The Digital Legacy Industry: From Account Deletion to AI Recreations
Kesha’s contemplation of her legacy taps into a burgeoning industry focused on digital afterlife planning. Companies now offer services ranging from simple password management and account deletion to more complex solutions like creating AI-powered “digital twins” that can interact with loved ones after death. While the ethical implications of these technologies are still being debated, the demand is clear. People are increasingly concerned about what happens to their online presence after they’re gone, and they’re actively seeking ways to control that narrative. This extends beyond personal accounts to brand management for public figures, where maintaining a consistent image even after death is paramount.
The Role of AI in Preserving Artistic Voices
The use of artificial intelligence to recreate artistic styles and even generate new content based on an artist’s existing work raises fascinating questions about legacy. Could future generations experience “new” Kesha songs created by AI based on her discography? While currently controversial, this technology is rapidly evolving and will undoubtedly play a role in how artists are remembered and celebrated in the decades to come. The legal and ethical frameworks surrounding AI-generated art are still being developed, but the potential impact on the music industry is undeniable.
The conversation sparked by Kesha’s “Tennessee” is more than just about a song; it’s about a cultural reckoning with mortality in the digital age. As we increasingly live our lives online, the question of how we want to be remembered – authentically, imperfectly, and on our own terms – is becoming more urgent than ever. What steps are *you* taking to define your digital legacy?
