The music landscape is constantly evolving, with genres rising and falling in popularity over time. One genre that has seen a significant resurgence in recent years is synthwave, a style of music that originated in the 2000s and is heavily influenced by 1980s and 1990s retrofuturism, synth-pop, and video game soundtracks. In this article, we will delve into the world of synthwave, exploring its history, characteristics, and the reasons behind its renewed popularity.
Introduction to Synthwave
Synthwave, also known as retrowave or outrun, is a music genre that emerged in the early 2000s. It is characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers, distorted basslines, and nostalgic value, often incorporating elements of science fiction, technology, and futurism. The genre is often associated with the aesthetic of 1980s and 1990s popular culture, including vintage video games, movies, and television shows. Artists such as Kavinsky, Perturbator, and Power Glove are often credited with helping to shape the synthwave sound and aesthetic.
History of Synthwave
The synthwave genre has its roots in the early 2000s, when artists began experimenting with vintage synthesizers and production techniques to create a unique sound that was both nostalgic and futuristic. The genre gained popularity throughout the 2000s and 2010s, with the rise of online platforms and social media making it easier for artists to share their music and connect with fans. The release of the film Drive in 2011, which featured a synthwave-heavy soundtrack, helped to further popularize the genre.
Evolution of Synthwave
Over the years, synthwave has evolved and branched out into various sub-genres, incorporating elements of other styles such as house, techno, and ambient music. The genre has also become more diverse, with artists from around the world contributing to the synthwave scene. This diversity has helped to keep the genre fresh and exciting, with new artists and releases continually pushing the boundaries of what synthwave can be.
The Resurgence of Synthwave
In recent years, synthwave has experienced a significant resurgence in popularity, with the genre gaining traction among new fans and inspiring a new wave of artists. Several factors have contributed to this resurgence, including the rise of streaming platforms, social media, and the increasing popularity of retro culture. The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role, with many people turning to music as a way to escape and find comfort during a difficult time.
Streaming Platforms and Social Media
Streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music have made it easier than ever for fans to discover and listen to synthwave music. Playlists such as Spotify’s “Synthwave” and “RetroWave” have helped to introduce the genre to a wider audience, while social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have provided artists with a way to connect with fans and share their music. The visual nature of these platforms has also helped to showcase the aesthetic and style of synthwave, which is often just as important as the music itself.
Influence of Retro Culture
The increasing popularity of retro culture has also contributed to the resurgence of synthwave. TV shows and movies such as Stranger Things, The Matrix, and Ready Player One have helped to fuel a nostalgia for the 1980s and 1990s, while the rise of vintage video games and retro gaming has introduced a new generation to the sounds and aesthetics of the past. Synthwave artists have been quick to capitalize on this trend, incorporating elements of retro culture into their music and aesthetic.
Modern Synthwave Artists
The modern synthwave scene is thriving, with a diverse range of artists contributing to the genre. Artists such as The Midnight, FM-84, and Timecop1983 are helping to push the boundaries of synthwave, incorporating new sounds and styles into their music. The genre is also becoming more collaborative, with artists working together on tracks and remixes.
Notable Synthwave Releases
There have been several notable synthwave releases in recent years, including The Midnight’s “Kids” and FM-84’s “Running in the Night”. These releases have helped to showcase the diversity and range of the genre, while also introducing synthwave to a wider audience. The success of these releases has also inspired a new wave of artists to explore the synthwave sound, ensuring that the genre will continue to evolve and thrive in the years to come.
Live Performances and Events
Synthwave live performances and events are also becoming increasingly popular, with festivals such as the Synthwave Festival and the Outrun Festival drawing in fans from around the world. These events provide a unique opportunity for fans to experience synthwave music in a live setting, while also showcasing the genre’s visual and aesthetic elements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, synthwave is indeed popular again, with the genre experiencing a significant resurgence in recent years. The rise of streaming platforms, social media, and retro culture have all contributed to this trend, while the diversity and range of modern synthwave artists have helped to keep the genre fresh and exciting. As the music landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how synthwave adapts and changes, but for now, the genre is thriving, with a bright future ahead.
| Artist | Release | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Kavinsky | Nightcall | 2010 |
| Perturbator | The Uncanny Valley | 2016 |
| The Midnight | Kids | 2018 |
The future of synthwave is looking bright, with a new generation of artists and fans discovering the genre every day. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering synthwave, there’s never been a better time to explore this exciting and nostalgic genre. With its unique sound, aesthetic, and sense of community, synthwave is sure to continue to thrive and evolve in the years to come.
What is Synthwave music and where did it originate?
Synthwave, also known as retrowave, is a music genre that originated in the 2000s and is heavily influenced by 1980s and 1990s pop culture, particularly electronic music, film, and video games. The genre is characterized by its dreamy, nostalgia-tinged soundscapes, often featuring pulsing synthesizers, distorted guitars, and driving beats. Synthwave artists often draw inspiration from classic sci-fi and action movies, as well as iconic video games and television shows from the 1980s and 1990s.
The genre’s origins can be traced back to the early 2000s, when artists such as Kavinsky, College, and Power Glove began experimenting with retro electronic sounds. These pioneers of the synthwave movement drew inspiration from the likes of Jean-Michel Jarre, Tangerine Dream, and Vangelis, as well as the scores of classic films and video games. Over time, the genre has evolved to incorporate a wide range of styles and influences, from dark and moody soundscapes to upbeat and energetic dance tracks. Today, synthwave is a thriving global community, with a dedicated fan base and a plethora of talented artists pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Why did Synthwave experience a decline in popularity in the mid-2010s?
Synthwave’s decline in popularity in the mid-2010s can be attributed to a combination of factors. One reason was the oversaturation of the market, with the genre becoming increasingly popular and attracting a large number of new artists and fans. While this growth was initially exciting, it eventually led to a sense of fatigue, with many listeners feeling that the genre had become repetitive and formulaic. Additionally, the rise of other electronic music genres, such as vaporware and chillwave, may have drawn attention away from synthwave.
However, it’s worth noting that synthwave never truly disappeared, and a dedicated core of artists and fans continued to produce and enjoy the music. In fact, the genre’s decline may have ultimately contributed to its resurgence, as artists were forced to innovate and push the boundaries of the genre in order to stand out. The resulting evolution of synthwave has led to a more diverse and exciting scene, with artists incorporating new sounds and styles into their music. This renewed creativity and experimentation have helped to breathe new life into the genre, attracting both old and new fans alike.
What role has social media played in the resurgence of Synthwave?
Social media has played a significant role in the resurgence of synthwave, providing a platform for artists to share their music, connect with fans, and build a community around the genre. Platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and Bandcamp have made it easier than ever for artists to share their music and reach a global audience. Social media has also enabled fans to discover new artists and music, with many fans stumbling upon synthwave through online recommendations and playlists.
The visual aspect of social media has also been a key factor in synthwave’s resurgence, with many artists using platforms like Instagram to share their nostalgic and retro-inspired aesthetics. The genre’s distinctive visual style, which often features neon lights, vintage computers, and dystopian landscapes, has proven to be highly engaging and shareable on social media. This has helped to create a sense of excitement and buzz around the genre, with fans eager to share and discover new music and visuals. As a result, social media has become an essential tool for synthwave artists, enabling them to build a fan base and promote their music to a wider audience.
How has Synthwave influenced other music genres and art forms?
Synthwave’s influence can be seen in a wide range of music genres and art forms, from electronic and dance music to film and video game soundtracks. The genre’s distinctive sound and aesthetic have inspired a new generation of artists, who are incorporating synthwave elements into their own music and art. For example, many modern electronic and pop artists, such as The Weeknd and Dua Lipa, have cited synthwave as an influence and have incorporated its sounds and styles into their own music.
Synthwave’s influence can also be seen in the world of film and video games, where the genre’s nostalgic and retro-futuristic soundscapes have been used to create immersive and engaging soundtracks. The genre’s influence can be heard in the soundtracks of films like “Drive” and “Tron: Legacy,” as well as in the music of video games like “Hotline Miami” and “Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon.” Additionally, synthwave’s visual aesthetic has inspired a new wave of artists and designers, who are creating retro-futuristic artwork and graphics that pay homage to the genre’s distinctive style.
What are some notable Synthwave artists and albums that have contributed to the genre’s resurgence?
There are many notable synthwave artists and albums that have contributed to the genre’s resurgence, including pioneers like Kavinsky and College, as well as newer artists like Perturbator and Carpenter Brut. These artists have helped to push the boundaries of the genre, incorporating new sounds and styles into their music and expanding synthwave’s sonic palette. Some notable albums that have contributed to the genre’s resurgence include Kavinsky’s “Nightcall,” Perturbator’s “The Uncanny Valley,” and Carpenter Brut’s “Leather Teeth.”
These albums, along with many others, have helped to define the sound and style of modern synthwave, incorporating elements of metal, rock, and electronic music into the genre. Other notable artists, such as Power Glove, Mitch Murder, and Starset, have also made significant contributions to the genre, experimenting with new sounds and styles and helping to build a thriving global community of synthwave fans. As the genre continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovative and exciting music from these and other synthwave artists.
How has the Synthwave community responded to criticism and controversy surrounding the genre?
The synthwave community has responded to criticism and controversy surrounding the genre in a variety of ways, from acknowledging and addressing criticisms to embracing and celebrating the genre’s nostalgic and retro aesthetic. Some critics have accused synthwave of being overly nostalgic or retrograde, while others have criticized the genre’s associations with certain ideological or aesthetic movements. However, the synthwave community has generally been open and receptive to criticism, using it as an opportunity to reflect on the genre’s values and aesthetics.
In response to criticism, many synthwave artists and fans have emphasized the genre’s inclusive and diverse nature, highlighting the many different styles and influences that exist within the synthwave scene. The community has also sought to address and challenge criticisms of the genre, using social media and online forums to engage in discussions and debates about the genre’s meaning and significance. By acknowledging and addressing criticism, the synthwave community has been able to build a more nuanced and mature understanding of the genre, one that recognizes both its strengths and its limitations.
What does the future hold for Synthwave, and will it continue to remain popular?
The future of synthwave looks bright, with the genre continuing to evolve and incorporate new sounds and styles into its music. As the genre becomes more mainstream and widely recognized, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovation and experimentation from synthwave artists, as they push the boundaries of the genre and explore new sonic landscapes. The rise of new platforms and technologies, such as virtual reality and live streaming, may also provide new opportunities for synthwave artists to connect with fans and create immersive and interactive experiences.
As for whether synthwave will continue to remain popular, it’s difficult to predict with certainty, but all signs suggest that the genre has a dedicated and passionate fan base that will continue to support and drive its growth. The genre’s nostalgic and retro aesthetic may continue to appeal to fans who are looking for a sense of escapism and nostalgia, while its futuristic and sci-fi themes may also continue to inspire and captivate listeners. Ultimately, the future of synthwave will depend on the creativity and innovation of its artists, as well as the continued enthusiasm and support of its fans. With its unique sound and aesthetic, synthwave is well-positioned to remain a vibrant and exciting genre for years to come.