Synthpop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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synthpop
[ˈsɪnθˌpɒp ]
Definitions
music genre
Synthpop is a genre of electronic music that first became prominent in the late 1970s and features the use of synthesizers as the dominant musical instrument. It is characterized by catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and often incorporates elements of pop music.
Synonyms
electropop, new wave.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| synthpop |
This term is used to describe a pop music style that prominently features synthesizers. It's often associated with the 1980s but can apply to modern music that follows a similar style.
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| electropop |
This term is typically used to describe a modern style of pop music that incorporates electronic sounds, sometimes overlapping with synthpop but often used to describe newer artists and music.
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| new wave |
This term is used to describe a diverse genre that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, blending rock, punk, and electronic music. It has a broader scope than just synth-based music.
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Examples of usage
- Depeche Mode is a well-known band that helped popularize synthpop in the 1980s.
- Many synthpop songs from the 80s are still popular today.
- Synthpop has influenced a wide range of artists across different genres.
music genre
A subgenre of pop music that uses synthesizers as the primary instrument, characterized by its electronic sound and catchy melodies.
Synonyms
electropop, new wave.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| synthpop |
Commonly used to describe a genre of music that blends synthesizer-based sounds with pop song structures. Typically, it's associated with music from the late 1970s and 1980s, featuring catchy melodies and a strong emphasis on electronic instruments.
|
| electropop |
This term often refers to a subgenre of synthpop that has a more modern sound. Electropop usually combines electronic music styles with pop elements, and is frequently used to describe current music trends.
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| new wave |
Used to refer to a broad genre that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. New wave incorporates a variety of influences such as punk rock, electronic music, and experimental music. It often has an avant-garde feel and is not exclusively focused on synthesizers.
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Examples of usage
- Synthpop artists often use electronic beats and futuristic sounds in their music.
- The 1980s saw a surge in popularity for synthpop music.
- Many modern artists continue to draw inspiration from synthpop.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The genre emerged in the late 1970s as artists began to experiment with synthesizers, which are electronic devices that create music.
- The term 'synthpop' became popular in the early 1980s, with bands like Depeche Mode and Kraftwerk paving the way for its rise.
- Synthpop often reflects the culture of the 1980s, characterized by bright visuals and futuristic themes in both music and fashion.
Pop Culture
- The music video for 'Sweet Dreams' by Eurythmics helped define the aesthetic of the genre, featuring an iconic visual style that combined surrealism and fashion.
- Films like 'The Terminator' showcased synthpop music, using it to create a connection with the film's futuristic themes.
- The genre has experienced a resurgence in the 2010s, influencing modern artists such as Lady Gaga and The Weeknd who incorporate electronic sounds into their music.
Technology
- The development of affordable synthesizers in the 1970s, such as the Roland Jupiter-8, made it easier for artists to experiment with new sounds and styles.
- Digital audio workstations (DAWs) have made it accessible for aspiring musicians to produce synthpop from home using computers.
- The MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) technology allows different musical devices to communicate, revolutionizing how synthesizers are used.
Art and Design
- Album covers of synthpop bands often feature bold, geometric designs, reflecting the futuristic and electronic nature of the music.
- Music videos from the synthpop era are characterized by their vibrant colors and imaginative visuals, often resembling a digital utopia.
- The fashion of the 1980s connected to synthpop included bright colors, leather jackets, and hairstyles that epitomized the era's exuberance.
Influence on Other Genres
- Synthpop laid the groundwork for many electronic dance music (EDM) genres, influencing styles like house and techno.
- Many contemporary genres such as indie pop and electroclash are heavily inspired by the melodic hooks and production techniques of synthpop.
- Pop and hip-hop artists today often sample synthpop tracks or adopt its beats, showing its timeless influence in modern music.
Origin of 'synthpop'
Synthpop originated in the late 1970s as a response to the dominance of rock music. Artists began experimenting with synthesizers and electronic sounds to create a new, futuristic sound. The genre quickly gained popularity in the 1980s, with bands like Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and New Order leading the way. Synthpop continues to influence modern music, with artists incorporating its electronic elements into various genres.