synthpop

Synthpop: A History of Blips, Beeps, and Big Hair

Synthpop, a genre that emerged in the late 1970s and dominated the early 1980s, was a sonic revolution. It was a marriage of catchy pop melodies with the futuristic sounds of synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers. Think “Take On Me” by a-ha, “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics, or “Blue Monday” by New Order – the music was instantly recognizable and irrevocably linked to the era’s fashion and culture.

The Genesis:

The seeds of synthpop were sown in the late 70s by bands like Kraftwerk, whose electronic soundscapes paved the way for a new generation of artists. Groups like Depeche Mode, The Human League, and Gary Numan, all embraced the burgeoning technology of synthesizers, creating music that was both danceable and introspective.

A Fusion of Sounds:

The genre fused influences from punk, disco, and new wave, resulting in a sound that was both catchy and sophisticated. Synthpop relied heavily on synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers, creating a distinctive electronic sound that was often juxtaposed against melodic vocals.

The Rise of a Visual Style:

As synthpop gained popularity, so did its signature look. Think colorful, futuristic clothing, big hair, and neon lights. Bands like Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet became synonymous with this aesthetic, which further solidified the genre’s place in popular culture.

Funny Facts:

• The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me” was originally titled “The Things That Dreams Are Made Of.” The band changed the title after realizing that the chorus was the most memorable part of the song.
• Depeche Mode’s Dave Gahan once admitted to having a “terrible phobia of insects.” This phobia is quite ironic, considering the band’s frequent use of insect imagery in their music.
• Gary Numan was once voted the “Sexiest Man Alive” by a British music magazine. This is ironic, as Numan is known for his robotic and otherworldly persona.
• Duran Duran’s “Rio” was inspired by the city of Rio de Janeiro, but the band never actually visited the city. They just liked the name.
• The Eurythmics’ Annie Lennox was originally a classical musician. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London before forming Eurythmics with Dave Stewart.

The Legacy:

Synthpop’s influence on music is undeniable. It paved the way for electronic music genres like techno, house, and trance, and its influence can still be heard in contemporary pop music. Today, synthpop enjoys a resurgence in popularity, with many modern artists drawing inspiration from its iconic sounds and aesthetics.

Synthpop remains a unique and influential genre, a testament to the power of technology and creativity. It reminds us that even in the realm of music, sometimes the most interesting sounds are the ones that are created, not played.