Postmodern Jukebox (PMJ) is bringing their signature blend of vintage-meets-modern music to prestigious venues like London’s Royal Albert Hall and Sydney Opera House on their 2025 “Magic & Moonlight” tour. As always, we can expect to see an audience full of music fans and vintage fashionistas. However, there’s another group of fans that regularly attend concerts by this retro music collective: multigenerational families.
In today’s increasingly fast-paced world, it can be challenging for younger and older generations to find common ground. Studies show that many families struggle to maintain strong relationships between generations, with technology, cultural differences, and evolving tastes creating barriers. However, according to research from the Gerontological Society of America, 71% of families believe music can help bridge generational divides, bringing people together through shared memories and emotional connections. Postmodern Jukebox, known for reimagining contemporary pop hits in vintage musical styles like jazz, swing, and ragtime, is uniquely positioned to highlight this unifying power of music.
“It is not uncommon for us to look out at the front row at a Postmodern Jukebox concert and see grandparents, parents and grandchildren – all together,” says Scott Bradlee, founder and arranger of PMJ. “We all see generation gaps bridged by sports all the time, but I think it’s rare for a contemporary concert act to do the same. As an act that brings generations together musically, it’s pretty special to see [PMJ] bring generations together literally, as well.
The Multigenerational Audience: By the Numbers
PMJ’s fanbase is a testament to the fact that music transcends age barriers. According to Bradlee, the concert remains a popular “date night” event for couples, but in recent years, a growing number of concert-goers are attending shows as multigenerational groups, with parents bringing children, and in many cases, three generations attending together. It is this cross-generational appeal that sets PMJ apart from many other musical acts. Audiences range from teenagers discovering “vintage” styles like jazz for the first time to grandparents reminiscing about the variety shows and music icons of their youth.
Data from the American Psychological Association reveals that 71% of adults believe having strong relationships with older and younger family members improves their quality of life. However, in recent years, generational gaps have widened. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 60% of Americans say they feel disconnected from older or younger family members, often citing different interests, including contrasting tastes in entertainment and music.
Live music has always served as an effective bridge between generational divides. Oxford University’s Music and Wellbeing Research Group found that singing together can strengthen bonds, enhance communication, and foster feelings of closeness across different age groups.
Uniting Generations Through PMJ’s Unique Sound
Postmodern Jukebox’s signature style is a natural vehicle for bringing generations together. By blending the familiar melodies of today’s pop hits with the rich, nostalgic sounds of the past, PMJ creates a musical experience that resonates with both younger and older audiences.
PMJ concerts often feature a wide range of attendees, from millennials dressing in vintage attire – polka dot swing dresses and three piece suits are perennial favorites – for a “throwback” night out, to grandparents revisiting the sounds of their youth. The group’s live performances, which mix classic variety show elements with contemporary pop culture references, is family friendly and designed to appeal to all ages. Audience participation, dancing, and spontaneous call-and-response singalongs are a key part of the experience, creating an atmosphere that naturally encourages intergenerational bonding.
The Positive Impact of Shared Musical Experiences
The benefits of multigenerational connections extend beyond just the enjoyment of music. According to a study by the Journal of Family Communication, families that engage in shared activities like attending concerts or playing music together report stronger bonds and improved communication. The same study also found that 78% of individuals who engage in musical activities with family members say it enhances their relationships.
In particular, multigenerational experiences can help younger individuals develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of family history and traditions. Music, often tied to specific cultural and personal memories, serves as a powerful medium for storytelling across generations.
Get Involved: Strengthen Family Bonds Through Music
With its rotating cast and ever-changing setlist, A Postmodern Jukebox show is the perfect annual tradition for families that are looking to share a lifelong love of music together. Now in their eleventh year of touring, PMJ has tour dates across the US, UK, Europe, Australia & New Zealand at http://www.pmjtour.com, and plans to revisit these regions on tour, year after year.
About Postmodern Jukebox
Founded by Scott Bradlee in 2010, Postmodern Jukebox is a global musical collective known for reimagining modern pop songs in vintage musical styles such as jazz, swing, ragtime, and big band. PMJ has performed over 1,000 live shows worldwide and continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary music. Their mission is to connect people through the timeless power of music.
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Company Name: Postmodern Jukebox
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Website: https://postmodernjukebox.com/