As the world entered 2024, pop culture and entertainment took center stage. This year was a collection of memories with historic achievements, cultural shifts, and never forgotten trends. From groundbreaking moments in sports to the rise of new musical sensations, the landscape of entertainment was alive with energy and excitement. As we explore the highlights of this remarkable year, it’s clear that 2024 was a defining chapter in Lamar, and the ongoing story of pop culture, showcasing the creativity and resilience of humankind.
Freshman Experiences and School Life
For many new freshmen, Lamar represented a fresh start, a chance to redefine themselves and dive into a world filled with opportunities. They shared their experiences of feeling both nervous and eager to join clubs, participate in pep rallies, and bond with new classmates. Upperclassmen often stepped in as mentors, helping them ease the transition into this new chapter.
However, this year also brought the introduction of stricter safety protocols, such as backpack and ID checks at the entrances. While these measures aimed to enhance security, they sparked discussions among students about privacy and personal freedom. Though some students expressed concerns, the consensus acknowledged that safety must remain a priority in today’s world.
Exciting Events and Community Spirit
Amidst these changes, the sense of community at Lamar thrived. One of the things that connected our students was the IB Olympics, coordinated by the enthusiastic Ms. Hicks who took place as our new IB coordinator this year. The IB Olympics fostered camaraderie, encouraging students to collaborate and compete in various events such as a human knot and pictionary.
The club fair was another significant event that brought our school together, showcasing the vast array of extracurricular activities available at Lamar. Students eagerly signed up for clubs that piqued their interests, from robotics to drama. Pep rallies energized the student body, bringing everyone together to celebrate school spirit and unity.
Pop Culture & Entertainment Highlights
2024 was a monumental year in pop culture and entertainment. The Summer Olympics in Paris, held from July 26 to August 11, became a global celebration of athletic achievement. One of the most memorable moments was the first-ever all-Black women’s podium moment in track and field, which became a viral highlight and a source of pride for many. Iconic performances and viral moments captured the attention of viewers worldwide, showcasing the resilience and talent of athletes from diverse backgrounds.
In the music scene, the ongoing rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar heated up, particularly with the release of “Not Like Us.” This track dominated playlists and sparked debates among fans about lyrical content and artistic direction. Additionally, the rise of electropop saw artists like Chappell Roan and Charli XCX leading the scene, creating Brat-inspired playlists that became the soundtrack of summer.
Viral Trends and Gaming
Social media trends continued to shape youth culture in 2024. On TikTok, the “Mustangs” dance challenge and “STEM boards” became viral sensations, with compilation videos garnering millions of views. The gaming landscape also saw exciting new trends, with the fashion game “Dress to Impress” on Roblox allowing players to showcase their creativity in style, and the iconic “Pose 28” taking over For You pages everywhere.
Television and Film
Although this year didn’t have an iconic “Barbenheimer” duo, the summer movie season kicked off with the release of “Inside Out 2,” drawing in audiences eager for fresh content. The film sparked conversations about representation and storytelling in Hollywood, further emphasizing the importance of diverse narratives in entertainment and highlighted how important it is to care for a growing teen’s mind.
Politics and Global News
On the political front, the 2024 U.S. election was a rollercoaster ride. Key moments included an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, Joe Biden’s resignation, and Kamala Harris stepping up as the Democratic nominee. The election results ultimately saw Trump reclaiming the presidency, igniting discussions among Gen Z about their perspectives on major issues like climate change, social justice, and economic inequality. As Gen Z trickled into their first years of voting, youth engagement in politics was more pronounced than ever, with many students eager to voice their opinions and advocate for change.
Cultural Trends and Aesthetics
Culturally, the neon green aesthetic became a defining style of the year, influenced by the Brat Summer vibe. Charlie XCX’s fashion and music inspired students to embrace a nostalgic yet modern look, which influenced everything from fashion choices to attitudes, creating a vibrant atmosphere both on and off campus.
Food Trends
On the culinary front, Crumbl Cookies continued to dominate the snack scene, with people eagerly anticipating the rotating menu. The phrase “lookie lookie lookie, it’s Crumbl Cookie!” became a common chant on the internet as individuals shared their favorite flavors and treats.
Celebrity Moments
In celebrity news, JoJo Siwa experienced a rebrand that received mixed reactions, while Katy Perry attempted a comeback that sparked discussions about her relevance in the music industry. Meanwhile, Meghan Trainor celebrated her first Grammy win after 15 years in the industry for her song “Flowers”, proving that persistence pays off. Furthermore, controversy surrounded Cody Ko with allegations that impacted his fanbase, while the Gypsy Rose drama continued to draw attention. Sabrina Carpenter also made waves with her album “Short & Sweet,” showcasing her growth as an artist.
Fashion Trends at Lamar
Fashion trends took a nostalgic turn this year, with a revival of 90s and early 2000s styles. Students embraced various aesthetics, including euro-summer, preppy grunge, and neo-futurism. In the hallways, students have been seen with popular accessories like bows and leg warmers, reflecting the playful spirit of 2024.
In conclusion, 2024 was a year of transformation and connection at Lamar High School, marked by new experiences, cultural trends, and moments that resonated deeply with students. As we move forward, the memories created this year will undoubtedly shape the future of the Lamar community.
