A Short History of Electronic Pop: From Robots to Robots in Disguise

Electronic pop, a genre that’s simultaneously futuristic and nostalgic, has been around for longer than you might think. Its roots can be traced back to the 1960s and 70s, with pioneers like Kraftwerk, who, with their robotic personas and synth-heavy soundscapes, laid the groundwork for the genre. They may have looked like they came straight out of a sci-fi movie, but their music was the soundtrack to a brave new world.

The 80s saw electronic pop explode in popularity, thanks to the rise of artists like Depeche Mode, New Order, and the Human League. These artists blended catchy melodies with electronic instrumentation, creating a sound that was both danceable and introspective. The 80s also brought us the rise of synth-pop, with artists like Duran Duran and A-ha embracing the use of synthesizers to create a glossy, almost alien-like sound.

But electronic pop wasn’t just about synthesizers and robots. Artists like Madonna, Prince, and Michael Jackson, all of whom blurred genre boundaries, incorporated electronic elements into their music, pushing the boundaries of pop music and bringing electronic sounds to the mainstream.

Funny Facts

• Did you know that Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus” was originally written about a religious cult leader? The band’s original concept was to make a song about a “powerful, dangerous individual”.
• New Order’s frontman Bernard Sumner famously started out as a guitarist for the legendary post-punk band Joy Division. It wasn’t until he lost his friend and bandmate Ian Curtis to suicide that he switched to keyboards and electronic music.
• The Human League’s hit song “Don’t You Want Me” was actually a last-minute addition to their debut album. The band was pressured by their record label to include a more accessible song, and “Don’t You Want Me” became an unexpected smash hit.

From the synth-pop explosion of the 80s to the experimental sounds of the 90s and beyond, electronic pop continues to evolve and inspire. It’s a genre that embraces technology, innovation, and the human desire to dance. So crank up the synthesizers, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to be transported to a world where robots and catchy melodies collide!