vibe

Vibe Check: A History of a Feeling

The term “vibe” itself, a colloquialism for “vibration,” has been around for centuries. But when it comes to music, “vibe” usually refers to a specific, intangible feeling or atmosphere. It’s a broad term, encompassing everything from the laid-back chill of Lounge to the euphoric highs of Trance and the soulful depths of Blues.

The Roots of Vibe:

• Early Influences: From the rhythmic polyrhythms of African music to the soulful blues of the American South, the seeds of “vibe” were sown long ago.
• The Jazz Age: The 1920s saw the rise of Jazz, a genre oozing with improvisation and raw emotion. Think Louis Armstrong‘s trumpet blowing a soulful sigh or Duke Ellington‘s band crafting a mood with each note.
• The Soul Revolution: Soul music in the 1960s, led by pioneers like Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye, injected a dose of social commentary and raw emotional honesty into the “vibe” equation.

The Evolution of Vibe:

• The Psychedelic Era: The 1960s also saw the rise of psychedelic music, with bands like Pink Floyd and The Doors using trippy soundscapes and mind-bending lyrics to create a unique and immersive “vibe.”
• The Disco Era: The 1970s brought Disco, a genre built on pulsating rhythms, infectious melodies, and a desire to move and groove. The Bee Gees and Donna Summer became synonymous with the energetic “vibe” of the era.
• The Electronic Revolution: The late 20th century saw the rise of Electronic music, with genres like House, Techno, and Trance utilizing electronic instruments and synthesizers to create a futuristic and intensely atmospheric “vibe.”

Funny Facts & Vibes:

• John Lennon once famously described his “vibe” as “being more stoned than a cat.”
• David Bowie was a master of transforming his “vibe,” adopting different personas and styles throughout his career.
• The Ramones famously played their songs at a breakneck speed, creating a punk rock “vibe” that was both raw and energetic.

Vibe: A Continuously Evolving Concept:

The concept of “vibe” continues to evolve. From the introspective soundscapes of Ambient to the infectious energy of Pop, the “vibe” is constantly being redefined and reimagined. It’s a reminder that music, at its core, is all about feeling, and that feeling is constantly changing, just like the world around us.