Modern entertainment has entered a new era of Gen-Alpha slang and niche memes as criticisms of hit star, Sombr, began to make waves across social media. Although Sombr has been making music since 2021, He made his rise in 2025 with his debut studio album, “I Barely Know Her,” which had the song “Back to Friends” being one of his most popular, and he is currently on his debut tour, “The Late Nights and Young Romance,” which has seen a wide number of fans come to his concerts. His music, known for its themes of love, has been very relatable with a younger demographic, Gen-Z. However, there have also been many forms of criticism surrounding these concerts.

A major concern that has risen from a TikTok about Sombr’s concerts is its usage of Gen-Alpha terminology. Many memes such as “6-7” are frequently used at Sombr’s concerts, and the younger demographic of Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha concert-goers find it humorous, but many of his older audience finds it cringe.

Sombr responded, reminding critics that people should expect younger generations to go to his concerts, as he himself is on the younger side, being 20 years old.

Jacob Uy ‘27 said, “The larger demographic of Sombr’s audience are in their teens. It isn’t appalling to hear him try to connect with his younger audience by using said Gen-Alpha terminology.”

Although many people would cringe at Sombr for his usage of this “brain-rot”, he has found a way to relate with his audiences, making him one of the most successful artists of this generation.

A second concern is his antics on stage. Sombr’s on-stage presence could pose as explicit behavior. He uses vulgar language and actions surrounding many people of the younger generations were seen as disgusting behavior. What is worse, is that many fans flooding TikTok said that the younger generation were fine with being exposed to this type of behavior and language.

Sombr has clarified these actions to critics by repeating that these behaviors are just jokes on stage, and that the people at the concerts know this.
Ian Nam ‘27 contests, “Whether or not these actions are jokes, they seem explicit and indecent, especially to a younger audience. It is inappropriate and sets a terrible precedent to those younger.”

Although Sombr reiterates these as jokes, it is highly suggestive and provocative, raising concerns from critics about the appropriateness for his audience.

Although criticism is heavy for Sombr, his audience has grown accustomed and enjoys these types of jokes, proven by a large following and showing at performances.