Generic is one of those terms that is loosely thrown around like a powerbottom's asshole on ATRL. So, me being the intelligent poster I am decided to spread the true meaning of the word as given by the Dictionary.com:
ge·ner·ic [juh-ner-ik]
adjective Also, ge·ner·i·cal.
1. of, applicable to, or referring to all the members of a genus, class, group, or kind; general.
2. of, pertaining to, or noting a genus, especially in biology.
3. (of a word) applicable or referring to both men and women: a generic pronoun.
4. not protected by trademark registration: “Cola” and “shuttle” are generic terms.
Applying this definition to music, it basically means that a song is very accessible and nothing stands out about it or the current musical trends. Instead of standing alone, it stands in a group amongst the rest of the crowd and doesn't have it's own real identity.
With that being said, let's consider some songs from the discographies of various artist and discuss whether they truly are generic or not.
Keep in mind the true definition of generic when you consider. After all, just because a song follows the latest dance trend, etc doesn't necessarily mean it's generic. It indeed can offer something new and the artist can very well leave a trademark.
Up Now:
Britney Spears, "Hold It Against Me"
Covered:
Rihanna, "We Found Love"
Lady GaGa, "Marry the Night"
Beyonce, "Best Thing I Never Had"
Katy Perry, "Part of Me"
Britney Spears, "Hold It Against Me"
The production. no.
The lyrics were nothing special but it's a HARDCORE european dance /trance song. Not many like it was on the hot 100 at the time. so, no.