When writing a contemporary piece (including some urban fantasies) having cultural references is a fine line to walk. You have to keep in mind that references will date the story. I'm not talking about classics but current trends.
This can be done well. NORTHANGER ALIBI is a retelling of Jane Austen's NORTHANGER ABBEY. In NORTHANGER ABBEY the heroine is obsessed with popular Gothic romance novels. In NORTHANGER ALIBI the heroine is obsessed with the TWILIGHT SAGA. Even years from now those who reads the books will understand what is going on even if they haven't heard of or read the romance novels being referenced.
Not all references leave such an important impact. If you don't have to mention particulars it is best not to. Ask yourself if it is important that the character is listening to a specific band or if you can just say they are listening to rock music. While added specifics can make the book feel like it is more grounded in reality it will become outdated fast. Books normally take a year to complete the publication process. The other important thing to consider is the fact that there can be some sticky legal situations if you don't know what you are doing.
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