Age 30+ people who used the original MySpace

It’s been quite some time since I’ve used (and had) a MySpace. I have no clue whether my old one was around prior to the server/data loss some years back. It’s very possible that I deleted it, but it’s a moot point as the site doesn’t have the same appearance and layout that we all grew up with.

I have a lot of fun memories of MySpace, AIM 5.9, MSN Messenger, and forums between 2005 to 2008. Dysphoric memories, but fond ones nonetheless. I truly believe that there are two “golden ages” of social media (I am sure others may disagree).

The first was the aforementioned MySpace/AIM/MSN time. I think that there was a beauty to having different aspects and to have that separation. I don’t deny that smartphones have brought a lot of utility and accessibility (not to mention knowledge) to others, but there are also the aspects of constant connectivity, misinformation, etc.

The second time I think that social media peaked was 2012 to 2014. I think about Tumblr and Twitter when I say this, and while smartphones were a technology that enabled connectivity, it was still nowhere near as terrible as it is today. I think that this time period was essential for connecting and helping people such as the queer community.

I still use my iPod, and I miss that phones no longer have a physical keyboard. I like that SpaceHey is here, and I would hope that there would be a revival around a slower, more personal form of social media (and messenger applications) but I know that it won’t pass. I think that there is a sadness over what the internet has become, compared to what it used to be.

I am sure that the current internet is helpful to others. For younger generations, it’s all they’ve ever known. I am sure that there are those older than me that feel the same way about their time online.

I won’t ever reconnect with people that I knew from my hometown because the idea of a centralized social media where people share updates and talk to one another is over and done with (not to mention the many issues with Facebook and Twitter’s practices). However, for now I will just enjoy this small slice of 2000s nostalgia.

I would love to hear other’s thoughts on this!