When did I become soft and easy?

During a recent car ride with my good buddy, MyThighsRGoodFriendsNowThatTheyTouch, we were cranking up the tunes when we noticed an odd trend-- it seems that somewhere between 1998 and now, all of our favorite songs have moved from being 'hip' and 'alternative' to being Easy Listening and Soft Rock. How does this happen? WHEN did this happen? How come no one told us? Does this mean that we are no longer hip? No longer 'alternative' and on the cutting edge of music?? Discuss amongst yourselves. 

P.S. I'llNeverForgetYouDaveMatthews!!!!