What is New Wave Music? The History and Evolution 2023

Pulsating rhythms that ignite a rebellious spirit, electrifying synthesizers that spark a revolution of sound, and lyrics that challenge the status quo with their bold, enigmatic expressions. There exists a genre of music that embodies this infectious energy, captivating a generation with its vibrant sonic palette. Its name: New Wave music. But what truly lies beneath the surface of this captivating term? What is New Wave music?

New wave music is a genre of popular music that emerged in the late 1970s and became popular in the 1980s. It is considered a lighter and more melodic “broadening of punk culture” that usually includes the use of synthesizers. It was originally used as a catch-all for the various styles of music that emerged after punk rock, including punk itself.

Later, critical consensus favored “new wave” as an umbrella term involving many popular music styles of the era, including power pop, synth-pop, alternative dance, and specific forms of punk rock that were less abrasive. It may also be viewed as a more accessible counterpart of post-punk.

Artists in the New Wave scene such as Blondie, The Cars, Talking Heads, and Devo brought a fresh sound and style to the music industry, blending catchy pop hooks with edgier and more experimental elements. With its eclectic and boundary-pushing nature, New Wave music became a symbol of the cultural and artistic shifts happening during that period.

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What is new wave music?

New wave music is a genre that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a subgenre of punk rock and alternative rock. It was characterized by its use of synthesizers, electronic instruments, and a more polished production style compared to traditional punk rock.

Nonetheless, New wave music combined elements of punk, pop, electronic, and experimental music, creating a distinct sound that often featured catchy melodies, energetic rhythms, and introspective lyrics.

New wave music embraced a more diverse range of influences, incorporating elements of disco, reggae, ska, and other genres into its sound. It was associated with a fashion and style movement that rejected the mainstream, often featuring eccentric and futuristic looks. Bands and artists like Blondie, Talking Heads, The Cure, Devo, Duran Duran, and The B-52s were among the prominent figures of the new wave movement.

While new wave music had its commercial peak in the early 1980s, its impact and influence can still be felt in various genres and artists today. It laid the groundwork for the development of synth-pop, new romantic, and alternative rock, among others, and remains an important part of music history.

Origins of new wave music?

The origins of new wave music can be traced back to the late 1970s in the United States and the United Kingdom. It emerged as a response to the punk rock movement, which had gained momentum in the mid-1970s. Punk rock was characterized by its raw, aggressive sound and do-it-yourself ethos, but some musicians within the punk scene sought to explore new sonic territories and experiment with different musical styles.

In the United States, bands like Talking Heads, Blondie, and Television began incorporating elements of art rock, pop, and disco into their music, creating a more accessible and commercially appealing sound. These bands, along with others like Devo and The Cars, played a significant role in shaping the sound and aesthetic of new wave music.

Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the emergence of new wave was closely tied to the punk rock movement. Bands such as The Clash, The Sex Pistols, and The Damned were at the forefront of the punk movement, but as the late 1970s approached, many bands started experimenting with different musical styles and incorporating influences from diverse genres. This led to the development of a more polished and melodic sound that became known as new wave. British new wave bands like The Police, The Jam, and XTC gained popularity and helped establish the genre.

It’s important to note that new wave music was not a unified movement with a single sound or ideology. It encompassed a wide range of artists and styles, from the more pop-oriented acts to those with more experimental and edgier sounds. Nonetheless, the desire to push boundaries and explore new musical territories was a common thread among many new wave musicians.

Key characteristics of new wave music?

New wave music is characterized by several key characteristics:

Use of synthesizers and electronic instruments: New wave embraced the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments. These technological advancements allowed for new and innovative sounds, creating a distinct and futuristic quality in the music.
Catchy melodies and hooks: New wave music often featured memorable and infectious melodies that were intended to be more accessible and radio-friendly than the raw energy of punk rock. The emphasis was on crafting catchy hooks and melodic lines that would stick in the listener’s mind.
Polished production: Compared to the lo-fi and raw production of punk rock, new wave music often had a more polished and refined sound. It made use of studio production techniques and embraced a cleaner and more layered approach to the music.
Eclectic influences: New wave drew from a wide range of influences, incorporating elements of punk, pop, disco, reggae, ska, and even art rock. This blending of genres resulted in a diverse and eclectic sound that set it apart from other contemporary musical movements.
Quirky and introspective lyrics: New wave lyrics often explored introspective themes, social commentary, and personal experiences. They could be quirky, witty, or even sarcastic at times. The lyrics often reflected the disillusionment and alienation of the post-punk era.
Fashion and style: New wave was closely associated with a distinctive fashion and style movement. Artists embraced unique and sometimes eccentric looks, featuring futuristic or retro-inspired clothing, bold colors, asymmetrical haircuts, and makeup. This visual aspect was an integral part of the new wave culture.
Artistic experimentation: While new wave aimed for a more mainstream appeal, it still retained an experimental spirit. Musicians were willing to push boundaries and explore unconventional song structures, incorporate avant-garde elements, and experiment with new sounds and textures.

These characteristics helped define the new wave genre and set it apart from other contemporary musical movements of the time.

Influences on new wave music?

New wave music drew influences from various genres and musical movements. Some of the key influences on new wave include:

Punk rock: New wave music evolved from the punk rock movement and inherited its rebellious spirit, DIY ethos, and energetic live performances. Punk bands like The Clash and The Sex Pistols influenced the raw and confrontational aspects of new wave.
Art rock and glam rock: Artists like David Bowie, Roxy Music, and T. Rex had a significant impact on new wave. Their experimentation with theatricality, visual aesthetics, and blending of genres inspired new wave musicians to incorporate elements of art rock and glam rock into their sound and image.
Disco and dance music: The rise of disco in the 1970s had a notable influence on new wave. The rhythmic and danceable qualities of disco music were incorporated into the sound of many new wave acts, adding a pop sensibility and a groove-oriented approach to their songs.
Reggae and ska: New wave bands often incorporated reggae and ska influences into their music, inspired by the Jamaican rhythms and the politically conscious lyrics of artists like Bob Marley and The Specials. This fusion created a unique and infectious sound that was embraced by the new wave movement.
Electronic and synth-pop: The emergence of electronic music and synth-pop in the late 1970s and early 1980s played a significant role in shaping the sound of new wave. Acts like Kraftwerk and Gary Numan pioneered the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic textures, which were adopted by many new wave artists.
Post-punk: The post-punk movement, which emerged alongside new wave, also had a strong influence on the genre. Post-punk bands like Joy Division, The Fall, and Gang of Four experimented with unconventional song structures, introspective lyrics, and a darker, more atmospheric sound that resonated with new wave musicians.
Pop and rock: New wave music retained elements of pop and rock, combining catchy melodies, hooks, and guitar-driven riffs with the experimental and electronic aspects of the genre. Influential pop and rock acts of the time, such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Kinks, also played a role in shaping the sound of new wave.

These influences, among others, contributed to the eclectic and diverse nature of new wave music, blending different genres and musical ideas to create a distinctive and innovative sound.

How did new wave music impact the music industry?

New wave music had a significant impact on the music industry in several ways:

Expansion of the Alternative and Independent Music Scene: New wave challenged the dominance of mainstream rock and pop music at the time. Its unique sound and alternative sensibilities paved the way for the growth of the independent music scene. It opened doors for non-mainstream artists and genres to gain recognition and reach wider audiences.
Popularization of Electronic and Synth-Pop Music: New wave played a crucial role in popularizing the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic instruments in mainstream music. It helped establish synth-pop as a distinct genre, which continued to thrive throughout the 1980s and beyond.
Influence on Music Videos and Visual Aesthetics: New wave coincided with the rise of music videos as a popular medium for promoting songs. Many new wave artists embraced visually striking and artistic music videos, which became an essential part of their image and promotional strategy. The innovative and creative approaches to music videos set the stage for the MTV era and influenced future generations of musicians and directors.
Blurring of Genre Boundaries: New wave blended diverse musical influences, incorporating elements of punk, pop, disco, reggae, ska, and more. This experimentation and genre-blurring helped break down barriers between musical styles and expanded the sonic possibilities within popular music.
Long-lasting Influence on Alternative and Pop Music: New wave left a lasting impact on subsequent musical movements and genres. Its influence can be heard in alternative rock, synth-pop, new romantic, indie rock, and even modern pop music. Many bands and artists today cite new wave acts as important influences on their sound and style.
Fashion and Style Influence: New wave’s fashion and style aesthetics were influential and continue to inspire fashion trends and subcultures. The bold and unique looks of new wave artists contributed to the visual identity of the era and left an indelible mark on popular culture.

New wave fashion and style?

New wave fashion and style emerged as an integral part of the new wave movement in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was characterized by a bold, futuristic, and often eccentric aesthetic that rejected mainstream fashion norms. Here are some key elements of new wave fashion and style:

Neon Colors: Bright, vibrant neon colors were popular in new wave fashion. Electric blues, hot pinks, lime greens, and bold yellows were frequently seen in clothing, accessories, and makeup.
Asymmetrical and Geometric Shapes: New wave fashion embraced asymmetry and geometric shapes in clothing design. Asymmetrically cut dresses, tops, and skirts, along with angular and geometric patterns, added a futuristic and avant-garde touch.
Retro and Futuristic Influences: New wave style drew inspiration from both retro and futuristic aesthetics. It blended elements of 1950s and 1960s fashion, such as A-line skirts, polka dots, and cat-eye sunglasses, with futuristic elements like metallic fabrics, space-inspired motifs, and unconventional silhouettes.
Bold Patterns and Prints: Patterns and prints played a prominent role in new wave fashion. Polka dots, stripes, checkerboard patterns, animal prints, and bold graphics were commonly seen on clothing items and accessories.
Layering and Mixing Textures: New wave fashion encouraged layering and the combination of different textures. Mesh, leather, PVC, and metallic fabrics were often mixed together to create visually dynamic outfits.
Statement Accessories: Accessories were an important part of new wave style. Large, chunky jewelry, oversized earrings, colorful scarves, fingerless gloves, and wide belts were popular choices. Sunglasses with unique shapes and colorful frames were also a common accessory.
Hairstyles: New wave hairstyles were often edgy and unconventional. Asymmetrical cuts, mullets, spiky or teased hair, and vibrant hair colors were popular choices. Some artists embraced elaborate hairstyles with geometric shapes or eccentric colors.
Makeup: Bold and dramatic makeup was a signature of new wave style. Brightly colored eyeshadows, heavy eyeliner, bold lipstick shades (like red, pink, or even black), and unconventional makeup designs were common.

New wave fashion and style rejected conformity and embraced individuality, allowing for self-expression and pushing boundaries. Its influence can still be seen today in fashion trends and subcultures.

New wave music subgenres?

New wave music gave rise to various subgenres and offshoots that further explored and expanded upon its sound and style. Some notable subgenres of new wave include:

Synth-pop: Synth-pop, also known as electro-pop, emerged as a direct offshoot of new wave. It placed a heavier emphasis on electronic instruments, particularly synthesizers, and incorporated catchy melodies, pulsating rhythms, and polished production. Acts like Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and New Order were influential in defining the synth-pop sound.
New Romantic: New Romantic was a subgenre and fashion movement that emerged in the early 1980s. It combined elements of new wave, glam rock, and electronic music with a focus on romantic and theatrical aesthetics. Bands like Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, and Visage were associated with the New Romantic scene.
Post-punk: Post-punk was a genre that emerged concurrently with new wave, often overlapping in style and influences. Post-punk bands incorporated more experimental and atmospheric elements into their music, exploring darker themes and unconventional song structures. Artists like Joy Division, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Cure are considered influential figures in the post-punk movement.
New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM): Although not directly related to the new wave genre in terms of musical style, NWOBHM emerged around the same time and shared a similar DIY ethos. It was a movement that revitalized heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s, featuring bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Judas Priest.
Darkwave: Darkwave is a subgenre that developed in the 1980s, drawing influences from new wave, post-punk, and gothic rock. It typically features moody atmospheres, introspective lyrics, and a blend of electronic and traditional rock instrumentation. Bands like Clan of Xymox, The Sisters of Mercy, and The Chameleons are associated with the darkwave sound.

Can you recommend some essential new wave albums?

Here are some essential new wave albums that are highly regarded and influential within the genre:

Blondie – “Parallel Lines” (1978)
Talking Heads – “Remain in Light” (1980)
The Cars – “The Cars” (1978)
The Police – “Synchronicity” (1983)
Devo – “Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!” (1978)
The B-52s – “The B-52s” (1979)
Duran Duran – “Rio” (1982)
Joy Division – “Unknown Pleasures” (1979)
Elvis Costello – “My Aim Is True” (1977)
The Cure – “Disintegration” (1989)
New Order – “Power, Corruption & Lies” (1983)
The Human League – “Dare” (1981)
Gary Numan – “The Pleasure Principle” (1979)
Adam and the Ants – “Kings of the Wild Frontier” (1980)
Soft Cell – “Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret” (1981)

These albums showcase the diversity and creativity within the new wave genre and are considered essential listens for fans of the genre or anyone interested in exploring its influential albums.

What are some iconic new wave songs?

There are numerous iconic new wave songs that have become synonymous with the genre. Here are some notable examples:

“Heart of Glass” – Blondie
“Don’t You Want Me” – The Human League
“Love Will Tear Us Apart” – Joy Division
“Just Can’t Get Enough” – Depeche Mode
“Rock Lobster” – The B-52s
“Psycho Killer” – Talking Heads
“Cars” – Gary Numan
“Every Breath You Take” – The Police
“Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Siouxsie and the Banshees
“Tainted Love” – Soft Cell
“Blue Monday” – New Order
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper
“The Lovecats” – The Cure
“Whip It” – Devo
“True Faith” – New Order
“Rio” – Duran Duran
“I Melt with You” – Modern English
“Lips Like Sugar” – Echo & The Bunnymen
“Take On Me” – A-ha
“Our House” – Madness

These songs represent a mix of iconic hits, underground classics, and influential tracks that have come to define the sound and spirit of new wave music.

How did new wave music evolve over time?

New wave music evolved and underwent several transformations over time, adapting to changing musical landscapes and incorporating new influences. Here are some notable shifts and developments in the evolution of new wave:

Expansion of Synth-Pop: In the early 1980s, synth-pop emerged as a distinct subgenre within new wave. It placed a stronger emphasis on electronic instruments, particularly synthesizers, and incorporated catchy melodies and polished production. This shift towards a more electronic sound can be seen in the music of bands like Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and New Order.
New Romantic Movement: The New Romantic movement emerged around the same time, combining new wave aesthetics with elements of glam rock and romanticism. Artists associated with this movement, such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, and Visage, embraced a more stylish and theatrical approach to their music and fashion.
Alternative and Indie Rock Influences: As the 1980s progressed, alternative and indie rock began to intersect with new wave. Bands like The Smiths, R.E.M., and The Jesus and Mary Chain incorporated elements of new wave into their sound while exploring more introspective and guitar-driven music.
Integration of World Music Influences: In the mid-1980s, there was a trend of integrating world music influences into new wave. Artists like Paul Simon, Peter Gabriel, and Talking Heads started incorporating elements of African, Caribbean, and Latin music, expanding the sonic palette of new wave.
Influence on Dance and Electronic Music: New wave’s use of electronic instruments and danceable rhythms had a lasting impact on the development of dance and electronic music genres. It influenced the emergence of synth-pop, electronic dance music, and the later rise of alternative dance and indie electronic styles.
Revival and Nostalgia: In subsequent decades, there have been revivals and nostalgia for new wave music. The 2000s and 2010s saw a resurgence of interest in the sound and aesthetics of the era, leading to the emergence of new wave-inspired bands and the incorporation of new wave elements into contemporary music.

The evolution of new wave music reflects its adaptability and influence on subsequent genres and movements. Its distinct sound and style continue to resonate with audiences and inspire new generations of musicians.

Is new wave music still relevant today?

new wave music remains relevant and continues to have an impact on contemporary music. While the peak of the new wave movement was in the late 1970s and early 1980s, its influence can be heard in various genres and artists today. Here are some ways in which new wave music remains relevant:

Influence on Alternative and Indie Rock: Many alternative and indie rock bands today draw inspiration from new wave, incorporating its catchy melodies, energetic rhythms, and distinctive guitar-driven sound. Artists like The Killers, Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, and Interpol have been influenced by the new wave movement.
Synth-Pop and Electronic Music: The synth-pop subgenre, which emerged from new wave, continues to thrive in contemporary music. Artists like Chvrches, M83, and LCD Soundsystem fuse elements of new wave with modern electronic production, creating a sound that pays homage to the genre while adding contemporary twists.
Retro and Nostalgia: New wave’s distinctive sound and style have fueled a sense of nostalgia, leading to a renewed interest in the music of that era. Many younger listeners have discovered and embraced new wave artists, contributing to the genre’s continued relevance.
Fashion and Style Influence: The fashion and style associated with new wave still inspire designers and subcultures today. Elements of new wave aesthetics, such as bold colors, geometric patterns, and retro-futuristic designs, can be seen in contemporary fashion trends and music-related visuals.
Continued Popularity of Classic New Wave Songs: Iconic new wave songs continue to receive airplay, feature in soundtracks, and remain popular among listeners. They have become timeless classics and are enjoyed by both longtime fans and new audiences.

While the new wave movement may have evolved and transformed over time, its impact on music, fashion, and popular culture has been enduring. The spirit of innovation, experimentation, and nonconformity that defined new wave continues to resonate and inspire artists today.

How did new wave music differ from punk rock?

New wave music and punk rock emerged as distinct movements within the broader punk and post-punk scenes of the late 1970s. While they shared some similarities, they also had notable differences in terms of musical style, attitude, and cultural context. Here are some key differences between new wave and punk rock:

Musical Style:

Punk Rock: Punk rock was characterized by a raw, aggressive, and minimalist sound. It often featured fast-paced, three-chord songs with short and simple structures. The instrumentation was typically guitar-driven, with a focus on power chords and energetic drumming.
New Wave: New wave incorporated a wider range of musical influences and experimentation. It blended elements of punk, pop, disco, reggae, and electronic music. New wave songs often had more complex arrangements, including the use of synthesizers, keyboards, and other electronic instruments.

Attitude and Aesthetics:

Punk Rock: Punk rock was associated with a rebellious and confrontational attitude. It rejected mainstream commercialism and embraced a DIY (do-it-yourself) ethos. Punk fashion was characterized by torn clothing, leather jackets, safety pins, and a general sense of anti-establishment and anti-authority.
New Wave: New wave had a more polished and art-oriented approach. It often embraced irony, wit, and a sense of theatricality. New wave fashion incorporated elements of retro-futurism, colorful and eccentric outfits, and a more stylized and fashion-conscious aesthetic.

Lyrics and Themes:

Punk Rock: Punk rock lyrics often expressed frustration, anger, social criticism, and a sense of alienation. They tackled political issues, social injustice, and personal experiences with a raw and direct approach.
New Wave: New wave lyrics covered a broader range of themes, including love, relationships, identity, and cultural observations. They could be introspective, playful, or even abstract, with a focus on clever wordplay and poetic expression.

Cultural Context:

Punk Rock: Punk rock emerged as a reaction to the perceived stagnation and commercialization of the music industry. It was closely associated with a DIY punk ethos and countercultural movements, aiming to challenge societal norms and express a sense of frustration and dissent.
New Wave: New wave, while initially emerging from the same punk and post-punk scenes, aimed to push the boundaries of popular music and reach a wider audience. It embraced elements of pop sensibility and incorporated influences from diverse genres, appealing to a more mainstream audience while maintaining a sense of artistic and creative experimentation.

While new wave and punk rock had some overlapping influences and shared a DIY spirit, their musical styles, attitudes, and cultural contexts set them apart. New wave expanded upon the raw energy of punk, incorporating diverse influences and exploring a broader sonic and aesthetic spectrum.

What are some notable new wave music festivals or events?

There have been several notable new wave music festivals and events that have celebrated the genre and brought together fans and artists. Here are some examples:

Retro Futura Tour: Retro Futura is a touring new wave music festival that began in the 1980s and has had various incarnations over the years. It features a lineup of popular new wave and synth-pop artists, including acts like Howard Jones, The English Beat, Modern English, and many more.
Rewind Festival: Rewind Festival is an annual music festival held in the UK that focuses on 1980s music, including a significant representation of new wave acts. The festival showcases a mix of iconic artists from the era, such as OMD, ABC, Marc Almond, and Bananarama.
80s Rewind Festival: Similar to Rewind Festival, the 80s Rewind Festival is held in various locations across the UK and features an array of artists from the 1980s, including prominent new wave acts. The festival offers a nostalgic experience for fans of the era’s music.
Cruel World Festival: Cruel World is a music festival launched in 2020 that celebrates the new wave and post-punk sounds of the 1980s. The festival features a lineup of influential artists from the era, including Morrissey, Bauhaus, Blondie, and Echo & The Bunnymen.
80s in the Sand: 80s in the Sand is a destination music festival held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, featuring performances by renowned artists from the 1980s. The festival includes a mix of new wave, pop, rock, and dance acts, providing a unique experience for fans of the era.

These festivals and events offer opportunities for fans to relive the music of the new wave era and experience live performances by iconic artists. They provide a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their music and create a sense of nostalgia and celebration for the genre.

Are there any modern bands or artists influenced by new wave music?

There are many modern bands and artists who draw inspiration from new wave music and incorporate its elements into their own sound. Here are some notable examples of modern artists influenced by new wave:

The Killers: The Killers are an American rock band known for their energetic and catchy songs. They have cited influences from new wave acts like Duran Duran, The Cars, and The Cure, incorporating their melodic sensibilities and synth-infused sound into their music.
Vincent: St. Vincent, the stage name of musician Annie Clark, combines elements of art rock, indie pop, and new wave. Her music often features angular guitar riffs, quirky arrangements, and a mix of electronic and organic instrumentation reminiscent of new wave experimentation.
Chvrches: Chvrches is a Scottish synth-pop band that blends modern electronic production with a nod to the synth-driven sound of the 1980s. They have cited acts like Depeche Mode and The Human League as influences, and their music features infectious melodies and a nostalgic yet contemporary feel.
Future Islands: Future Islands infuse elements of new wave, synth-pop, and post-punk into their music. Their charismatic frontman, Samuel T. Herring, channels the theatricality and intensity of new wave performers, while the band’s sound combines propulsive rhythms, atmospheric synthesizers, and heartfelt lyrics.
Tegan and Sara: Tegan and Sara, the Canadian indie pop duo, have incorporated new wave influences into their music. Their catchy hooks, infectious melodies, and introspective lyrics reflect the pop sensibilities of new wave while maintaining their own distinct sound.
The 1975: The 1975 is a British pop-rock band that combines a range of influences, including elements of new wave, synth-pop, and alternative rock. Their music often features shimmering guitars, pulsating synths, and lyrics that touch on personal and social themes.

These artists represent a diverse range of modern musicians who draw inspiration from the sounds, aesthetics, and spirit of new wave music. They incorporate those influences into their own unique styles, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

Conclusion

What is new wave music? New wave music emerged in the late 1970s as a vibrant and influential genre that blended elements of punk rock, pop, and electronic music. Characterized by its catchy melodies, synthesizer-driven sound, and a distinct sense of style and fashion, new wave provided a fresh and innovative approach to popular music.

It offered a departure from the raw energy of punk while embracing a more polished and art-oriented aesthetic. With its experimentation, diverse influences, and ability to fuse different genres, new wave had a lasting impact on the music industry, influencing subsequent genres such as synth-pop, alternative rock, and electronic dance music.

Although its heyday was in the 1980s, new wave music remains relevant today, continuing to inspire artists and resonate with audiences who appreciate its distinctive sound and artistic sensibilities.