As a constant presence in young people’s lives, music continues to be a critical tool for meeting their needs for community and self-expression; although, with this generation music has taken on a new twist: personalization.

The Internet has surpassed radio as the preferred medium for music among youth in all countries. This preference is especially pronounced outside the United States. Listening to music no longer means merely tuning in to the radio or buying CDs. Young people create music experiences for themselves that are highly personalized. 40% of them own iPods or personal MP3 players. Music downloading, custom playlists, and podcasting allow them to listen to music on their own terms.