Certain artists seem to think that if they do "Retro" Pop music from the 80s or 70s that it'll make them look talented and innovative and then they'll look talentless doing generic EDM

which is more generic? Generic EDM or Modern Retro

Music of any kind can be generic. EDM, retro-inspired, etc can be incredible when done right, just like how any kind of music can be incredible when done right.

The EDM sound is more samey to my ears but I also happen to enjoy it more so

EDM is the definition of generic, and its most successful producers are an example.

Oh, I came here to say something similar, but looks like I don't have to.

Most genres have a formula to them, and songs that try too hard to follow that formula is what makes them generic. That is not restricted to specific genres or w/e, though a certain type of music becoming popular for a time can make it seem like one style is more generic simply because we're exposed to it more.