goth

The Dark Side of Groovy: A History of Goth Music

A Grim Tale of Bat-Waving and Black Lipstick

Goth. The name conjures images of brooding vampires, macabre melodies, and brooding individuals clad in black. But this music genre, born from the ashes of punk rock, has a rich history far more complex than meets the eye.

The early 80s saw the emergence of bands like Joy Division and Siouxsie and the Banshees, whose dark and introspective lyrics resonated with a generation facing political and economic uncertainty. They embraced the morbid, the macabre, and the melancholic, rejecting the bright colors and sunny optimism of mainstream pop.

Goth music embraced a unique aesthetic, characterized by:

• Dark and atmospheric sounds: Synthesizers, distorted guitars, and driving drum beats painted a sonic backdrop of gloom and despair.
• Lyrical themes: Death, love, alienation, and the darker side of human nature were explored with a poetic and often morbid sensibility.
• Visual style: Black clothing, lace, and leather became synonymous with the goth look, reflecting an embrace of the mysterious and the unconventional.

Goth music wasn’t just about the dark and dreary. It provided a safe space for individuals who felt different, a community where expression of individuality was celebrated. This inclusivity, combined with the genre’s brooding intensity, fostered a devoted following that continues to this day.

A Bit of Goth Humor:

• Robert Smith’s (The Cure) hair: It became so iconic that a fan once sent him a hairpiece, prompting the band to release a humorous statement thanking the fan but assuring them that Smith’s hair was “not for sale.”
• The Sisters of Mercy’s Andrew Eldritch: Known for his enigmatic stage presence, Eldritch once had a fan write a letter asking him if he was a vampire. He simply replied, “I’m not a vampire, but I do have a great collection of blood-red velvet.”
• Bauhaus’ Peter Murphy: A devout vegetarian, Murphy once refused to eat any food backstage at a concert unless it was labeled “vegan.” When the catering staff couldn’t provide anything suitable, he ate a raw carrot onstage during a performance.

From its post-punk roots to its continued evolution, Goth music has left an indelible mark on the music world. Beyond the dark makeup and brooding lyrics, it offers a unique platform for exploring the darker corners of the human experience. And while the music may be dark, the humor and the community behind it are a testament to the genre’s enduring power.