What is Synthpop music? A Guide to Its Origins and Evolution 2023

Synthpop music, also known as synthesizer pop or simply synthpop, is a genre that emerged in the late 1970s and gained significant popularity throughout the 1980s. Combining elements of electronic music with catchy melodies and pop sensibilities, Synthpop music became a defining sound of the era. However, what is Synthpop music? Let’s lunch into the details in this article.

Synthpop music is characterized by the prominent use of synthesizers, electronic keyboards, and drum machines to create its distinctive sound. The genre’s emphasis on synthesizers allowed for a wide range of innovative sounds and textures, often resulting in a futuristic or otherworldly atmosphere.

In addition, Synthpop songs typically feature pulsating rhythms, infectious melodies, and richly layered arrangements, blending electronic and organic elements seamlessly. The use of synthesizers also allowed artists to experiment with new sonic possibilities, enabling them to create sounds that were previously unattainable with traditional instruments.

Also, the incorporation of electronic production techniques and effects further enhanced the genre’s unique sound, contributing to its widespread appeal.

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Introduction to Synthpop Music

Synthpop is a genre of music that emerged in the late 1970s, gained widespread popularity in the 1980s, and continues to influence contemporary music today. Rooted in the innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments, synthpop fuses elements of electronic music with catchy pop melodies and danceable rhythms.

Pioneering artists like Kraftwerk, Gary Numan, and Depeche Mode pioneered the synthpop sound, experimenting with new electronic technology to create futuristic and distinctive sonic landscapes. Their use of synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic effects revolutionized the music industry, giving rise to a new wave of artists who embraced the genre’s infectious and often nostalgic sound.

Synthpop’s catchy hooks, sleek visuals, and introspective lyrics struck a chord with audiences, making it a significant part of the 1980s music landscape. The genre’s influence extended beyond its era, inspiring a myriad of contemporary artists who continue to explore and expand upon the synthpop sound.

With its blend of innovation, nostalgia, and dancefloor appeal, synthpop remains a beloved and enduring genre that continues to shape the ever-evolving world of music. From the retro charm of ’80s classics to the cutting-edge sounds of modern productions, synthpop’s impact can be heard across genres and generations.

Origins and Emergence of Synthpop

The origins of synthpop can be traced back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the first synthesizers were introduced. These early synthesizers were expensive and difficult to use, but they were quickly adopted by experimental musicians who were looking for new ways to create music.

One of the earliest and most influential synthpop bands was Kraftwerk, a German group who formed in 1970. Kraftwerk’s early albums, such as Autobahn (1974) and Trans-Europe Express (1977), helped to define the sound of synthpop, with their use of electronic rhythms, repetitive melodies, and futuristic themes.

In the late 1970s, synthpop began to gain popularity in the United Kingdom, with bands such as Gary Numan and the Human League leading the way. Numan’s debut album, The Pleasure Principle (1979), was a commercial success, and its single “Cars” became a hit. The Human League’s album Dare (1981) was also a critical and commercial success, and its single “Don’t You Want Me” became one of the most popular songs of the year.

The early 1980s saw the peak of synthpop’s popularity, with bands such as Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, and New Order becoming global stars. These bands helped to popularize the synthpop sound, and their music was often featured in films and television shows.

By the mid-1980s, synthpop’s popularity began to decline, as other genres, such as new jack swing and grunge, took over the charts. However, synthpop has never gone away completely, and it continues to be a popular genre among fans of electronic music.

Key Characteristics of Synthpop Sound

Here are some of the key characteristics of synthpop sound:

Prominent use of synthesizers: Synthpop is characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers, which are electronic instruments that can be used to create a wide variety of sounds. Synthesizers are often used to create the distinctive electronic sound of synthpop, with their ability to produce sharp, bright, and futuristic tones.
Simple, repetitive drum machine patterns: Synthpop often features simple, repetitive drum machine patterns. These patterns provide a foundation for the music, and they can help to create a sense of urgency or excitement.
Melodic vocals: Synthpop vocals are typically melodic and often feature a strong sense of rhythm. The vocals can be used to create a sense of longing, sadness, or joy.
Electronic textures: Synthpop often features electronic textures, such as arpeggios, pads, and sweeps. These textures can help to create a sense of atmosphere or mood.
Often dark or futuristic themes: Synthpop songs often deal with dark or futuristic themes, such as alienation, technology, and the future. These themes can help to create a sense of mystery or intrigue.

Here are some examples of synthpop songs that illustrate these key characteristics:

“Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League
“The Cars” by Gary Numan
“Vienna” by Ultravox
“Breathless” by The Communards
“Blue Monday” by New Order
“Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles
“The Sign” by Ace of Base
“99 Red Balloons” by Goldfinger
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics.

Evolution of Synthpop Through the Decades

Overview of the evolution of synthpop through the decades:

In 1970s: The early 1970s saw the development of synthesizers and other electronic instruments, which helped to pave the way for the emergence of synthpop. Some of the earliest synthpop artists included Kraftwerk, Gary Numan, and the Human League. These bands helped to define the sound of synthpop, with their use of electronic rhythms, repetitive melodies, and futuristic themes.

In 1980s: The 1980s was the golden age of synthpop. Bands such as Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, and New Order became global stars, and their music was often featured in films and television shows. Synthpop became one of the most popular genres of music in the 1980s, and its influence can be heard in many other genres, such as dance, pop, and rock.

In 1990s: In the 1990s, synthpop began to decline in popularity, as other genres, such as grunge and new jack swing, took over the charts. However, synthpop never went away completely, and it continued to be a popular genre among fans of electronic music.

2000s-present: In the 21st century, synthpop has experienced a resurgence in popularity. New synthpop bands, such as The Killers, La Roux, and Chvrches, have emerged, and synthpop has been sampled by a variety of hip hop artists. Synthpop is now one of the most popular genres of electronic music, and its influence can be heard in many different genres.

Pioneering Synthpop Artists and Bands

Synthpop was shaped by several pioneering artists and bands who laid the groundwork for the genre’s rise to popularity in the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s. These artists experimented with synthesizers and electronic instruments, helping to define the signature sound and aesthetic of synthpop. Some of the most influential pioneering synthpop artists and bands include:

Kraftwerk: Considered one of the most important electronic music acts of all time, Kraftwerk, a German band formed in 1970, is often regarded as the pioneers of synthpop. Their innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments, along with their futuristic lyrics and visuals, paved the way for the genre’s development.
Gary Numan: English singer-songwriter Gary Numan gained prominence in the late 1970s with his solo album “The Pleasure Principle” (1979), which featured the hit single “Cars.” Numan’s unique blend of electronic music and post-punk aesthetics contributed significantly to the early synthpop sound.
Depeche Mode: Formed in 1980, Depeche Mode became one of the most successful and enduring synthpop bands. Their early albums, like “Speak & Spell” (1981) and “Some Great Reward” (1984), showcased their catchy synth-driven melodies and introspective lyrics.
The Human League: This British synthpop band achieved commercial success in the early 1980s with their album “Dare” (1981), which included hits like “Don’t You Want Me.” Their use of synthesizers and vocal harmonies became emblematic of the synthpop sound.
Yazoo (Yaz in the U.S.): Formed by Vince Clarke and Alison Moyet in 1981, Yazoo combined Clarke’s synthpop expertise with Moyet’s soulful vocals, producing hits like “Don’t Go” and “Only You.”
Eurythmics: Comprising Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, Eurythmics gained fame in the early 1980s with their blend of new wave, pop, and synthpop. Hits like “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and “Here Comes the Rain Again” solidified their place in synthpop history.
New Order: Formed after the dissolution of Joy Division, New Order combined post-punk with electronic dance music, creating a unique sound that influenced synthpop and alternative dance. Tracks like “Blue Monday” became iconic examples of the genre.
Pet Shop Boys: This British duo, consisting of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, achieved massive success with their distinctive blend of synthpop and dance music. Songs like “West End Girls” and “It’s a Sin” showcased their witty lyrics and infectious melodies.
Soft Cell: This British synthpop duo, comprising Marc Almond and David Ball, gained fame with their hit “Tainted Love” in 1981. They contributed to the genre’s popularity by combining synthesizers with a soulful and theatrical vocal style.

Synthesizers and Technology in Synthpop

Synthesizers and technology have played a major role in the development of synthpop. The early synthesizers were expensive and difficult to use, but they were quickly adopted by experimental musicians who were looking for new ways to create music.

Influence of Electronic Dance Music on Synthpop

Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has had a significant influence on synthpop, both in terms of production techniques and the blending of styles. While synthpop predates the emergence of EDM as a distinct genre, the evolution of electronic music over the years has contributed to the contemporary sound of synthpop. Some of the ways EDM has influenced synthpop include:

Production Techniques: EDM has introduced innovative production techniques and software tools that have been embraced by synthpop artists. Advancements in digital audio workstations (DAWs), virtual synthesizers, and plugins have allowed musicians to create complex and polished synthpop tracks.
Dancefloor Oriented: EDM’s focus on creating music for the dancefloor has influenced modern synthpop to incorporate more danceable and energetic rhythms. The blending of synthpop’s catchy melodies with EDM’s pulsating beats has made the genre more appealing to club-goers and fans of electronic dance music.
Electronic Instrumentation: EDM’s use of electronic instruments and synthesizers aligns with synthpop’s foundation. The genre’s incorporation of various electronic soundscapes and textures has strengthened the connection between the two styles.
Genre Blending: Contemporary synthpop artists have embraced elements from various electronic sub-genres, including house, trance, and electro-pop, blurring the lines between synthpop and EDM. This blending of genres has allowed synthpop to appeal to a broader and more diverse audience.
Collaborations: EDM artists and producers have collaborated with synthpop acts, further bridging the gap between the two genres. These collaborations have led to unique and exciting musical fusions, attracting fans from both genres.
Revival of Synthpop: The resurgence of interest in synthpop during the 2010s was partially fueled by EDM’s popularity. As electronic dance music gained mainstream attention, it paved the way for a renewed interest in electronic-infused pop music, including synthpop.
Festivals and Live Shows: Many music festivals and live events now feature a diverse lineup that includes both synthpop and EDM artists. The overlap in audiences and styles has allowed for a cross-pollination of fans, further blurring the boundaries between the two genres.
Sound Design: EDM’s emphasis on sound design and creating unique sonic experiences has influenced modern synthpop production. Artists have experimented with various electronic textures, creating rich and immersive soundscapes reminiscent of EDM compositions.

Overall, the influence of electronic dance music on synthpop has been a positive force, infusing the genre with fresh ideas, production techniques, and an expanded audience base.

Synthpop’s Impact on Mainstream Pop Music

Synthpop has had a major impact on mainstream pop music. The genre’s use of synthesizers and electronic textures has been adopted by many other genres, including dance, pop, and rock. Synthpop has also inspired a number of new subgenres, such as darkwave, electropop, and synthwave.

Here are some of the ways that synthpop has impacted mainstream pop music:

The use of synthesizers: Synthesizers are a key instrument in synthpop, and they have become increasingly popular in mainstream pop music. Synthesizers can be used to create a wide variety of sounds, and they can help to give pop music a more electronic sound.
The use of electronic textures: Electronic textures are another common feature of synthpop, and they have also become more common in mainstream pop music. Electronic textures can help to create a sense of atmosphere or mood, and they can also help to give pop music a more futuristic sound.
The use of catchy melodies: Synthpop songs often feature catchy melodies that are easy to sing along to. These melodies have helped to make synthpop songs popular with mainstream audiences.
The use of dark or futuristic themes: Synthpop songs often deal with dark or futuristic themes, such as alienation, technology, and the future. These themes can help to create a sense of mystery or intrigue, and they can also help to make synthpop songs more interesting to listen to.

Synthpop has had a major impact on mainstream pop music. The genre’s use of synthesizers, electronic textures, and catchy melodies has helped to make synthpop a popular genre with mainstream audiences. Synthpop has also inspired a number of new subgenres, which have helped to keep the genre fresh and exciting.

Synthpop Lyrics and Themes

Synthpop lyrics and themes often explored a wide range of subjects, reflecting the spirit of the 1980s and the evolving cultural landscape. While the genre’s sound was characterized by its electronic and danceable elements, its lyrics delved into various emotional, societal, and personal topics. Some common themes found in synthpop songs include:

Love and Relationships: Love, romance, and relationships were frequent themes in synthpop. Artists often sang about the highs and lows of love, heartbreak, desire, and longing. The lyrics could be both dreamy and melancholic, reflecting the complex emotions associated with romantic connections.
Technology and Modernity: Given the genre’s strong association with synthesizers and electronic instruments, it’s no surprise that technology and modernity were prominent themes. Lyrics explored the impact of technology on human interaction, the allure of futuristic possibilities, and the allure of the digital age.
Escapism and Fantasy: Synthpop often embraced a sense of escapism and fantasy. Some songs depicted dreamlike worlds, virtual realities, and a desire to escape the mundane aspects of everyday life. This theme tied in with the genre’s futuristic aesthetics and sound.
Individuality and Self-Expression: Synthpop artists often explored themes of individuality and self-expression. Some songs encouraged listeners to be themselves, embrace their uniqueness, and reject conformity. This message resonated with the growing alternative and new wave movements of the time.
Social Commentary and Critique: Beyond the danceable melodies, some synthpop songs carried a deeper social commentary. Artists used their platform to critique societal norms, consumerism, and political issues. This blending of serious subject matter with catchy music made synthpop both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Nostalgia and Memory: Synthpop lyrics occasionally tapped into feelings of nostalgia and memories of the past. Some songs explored the bittersweet aspects of looking back on cherished memories and experiences.
Ambiguity and Enigma: Synthpop sometimes embraced enigmatic and ambiguous lyrics, leaving room for interpretation and allowing listeners to find personal meanings in the songs. This approach added an air of mystery to some of the genre’s most iconic tracks.
Empowerment and Resilience: Some synthpop songs conveyed messages of empowerment and resilience. These tracks encouraged listeners to stand up for themselves, face challenges head-on, and find strength in difficult situations.
Longing for Connection: Alongside the themes of love, some synthpop lyrics touched on the longing for human connection and a sense of belonging. This could manifest in themes of loneliness, isolation, or a search for meaningful relationships.

Commercial Success and Global Reach of Synthpop

Synthpop achieved significant commercial success and global reach during the 1980s, solidifying its position as one of the most influential and popular genres of the decade. Its catchy melodies, electronic soundscapes, and visually appealing aesthetics resonated with audiences worldwide. Several factors contributed to the commercial success and global popularity of synthpop:

Radio and MTV: The rise of synthpop coincided with the advent of MTV (Music Television) in the early 1980s. The music channel’s visual medium provided a perfect platform for synthpop artists to showcase their visually compelling music videos, which further fueled their popularity. The continuous airplay on both radio and MTV helped synthpop songs reach a broad audience.
Chart Success: Synthpop artists achieved numerous chart-topping hits during the 1980s. Songs like “Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League, “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics, and “Take on Me” by A-ha became global smash hits, solidifying synthpop’s commercial appeal.
Dancefloor Appeal: Synthpop’s infectious beats and danceable rhythms made it a favorite in nightclubs and discotheques worldwide. The genre’s upbeat and energetic sound lent itself well to dance remixes, further expanding its popularity in the club scene.
Global Tours and Concerts: Many synthpop acts embarked on successful international tours during the 1980s. Their visually impressive live performances, often featuring elaborate sets and costumes, attracted large crowds and solidified their global fan base.
Film and TV Soundtracks: Synthpop songs were featured in numerous films and TV shows during the 1980s, exposing the genre to even wider audiences. Iconic soundtracks, such as “Pretty in Pink” and “Top Gun,” prominently featured synthpop hits, further contributing to its global reach.
New Wave and Alternative Scene: Synthpop was an integral part of the new wave and alternative music scene of the 1980s. As the new wave movement gained popularity, so did synthpop, leading to broader recognition of the genre both in mainstream and alternative music circles.
Influence on Other Genres: Synthpop’s influence extended beyond its original boundaries, inspiring artists from various genres to incorporate electronic elements into their music. This cross-pollination of styles helped spread synthpop’s influence even further.
Nostalgia and Revivals: The appeal of synthpop has endured over the years, leading to periodic revivals and reimaginings of the genre. Contemporary artists drawing inspiration from synthpop have kept the sound alive and introduced it to new generations of listeners.

Synthpop Fashion and Visual Aesthetics

Synthpop’s influence extended beyond its music, shaping distinctive fashion and visual aesthetics that became synonymous with the genre. The visual identity of synthpop was as important as its sound, and artists often used their appearance to create a unique and futuristic image.

Here are some key aspects of synthpop fashion and visual aesthetics:

Futuristic and Space-Inspired Looks: Synthpop artists often adopted futuristic and space-inspired looks. Metallic clothing, holographic materials, and sleek designs conveyed a sense of otherworldliness and modernity. This aesthetic drew inspiration from sci-fi movies and the fascination with space exploration prevalent during the era.
Neon Colors: Neon colors were a prominent feature of synthpop fashion. Bright, eye-catching hues like electric blue, hot pink, lime green, and neon yellow were often used in clothing, accessories, and makeup. These colors added to the genre’s vibrant and energetic visual appeal.
Shoulder Pads and Bold Silhouettes: Bold shoulder pads were a common feature in both male and female fashion during the ’80s, and synthpop artists embraced this trend. Oversized blazers, jackets, and dresses with pronounced shoulder structures created a strong and powerful silhouette.
Androgynous Fashion: Synthpop blurred traditional gender lines, and some artists embraced androgynous fashion. Men and women alike experimented with androgynous looks, incorporating elements from both male and female fashion to create a gender-neutral and avant-garde image.
Retro Futurism: While embracing modernity, synthpop fashion often incorporated elements from the past, resulting in a style known as “retro futurism.” Classic ’50s and ’60s silhouettes were combined with futuristic fabrics and colors to create a unique blend of old and new.
Edgy Hairstyles: Hairstyles played a crucial role in the visual aesthetics of synthpop. Artists sported edgy and unconventional haircuts, including asymmetrical styles, mullets, spiked hair, and flamboyant hair colors. These hairstyles added to the genre’s bold and rebellious image.
Dramatic Makeup: Bold and dramatic makeup was another essential component of synthpop fashion. Heavy eyeliner, colorful eyeshadows, and vibrant lip colors were used to create striking and attention-grabbing looks.
Music Videos and Visual Storytelling: Synthpop artists embraced the growing medium of music videos as a means of visual storytelling. These videos often featured elaborate sets, special effects, and avant-garde costumes, further establishing the genre’s unique visual identity.
Retro Gaming and Computer Graphics: As technology advanced, retro gaming and computer graphics also played a role in synthpop aesthetics. Pixel art, neon grids, and computer-generated imagery reminiscent of early video games appeared in album artwork and music videos.
Subcultures and Subversive Fashion: Synthpop’s visual aesthetics influenced various subcultures, including the New Romantics in the UK and the cyberpunk movement. These subcultures embraced the genre’s fashion and visual elements, infusing them with their own unique interpretations.

Synthpop’s fashion and visual aesthetics were a product of the time, reflecting the optimism, technological advancements, and creative experimentation of the 1980s.

Synthpop Revivals and Contemporary Artists

Synthpop has experienced several revivals over the years, with artists drawing inspiration from the genre’s iconic sound while infusing it with contemporary elements. These revivals have introduced synthpop to new generations of listeners and contributed to the genre’s enduring popularity.

Here are some examples of synthpop revivals and contemporary artists who have embraced the genre:

Chvrches: Formed in 2011, Chvrches is a Scottish synthpop band known for their infectious melodies, catchy hooks, and the ethereal vocals of lead singer Lauren Mayberry. They skillfully blend modern electronic production with classic synthpop sensibilities, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
The 1975: This English band incorporates elements of synthpop into their eclectic sound, drawing influences from various genres like indie rock and pop. Their use of synthesizers and electronic production techniques adds a distinct retro-futuristic vibe to their music.
Years & Years: Fronted by Olly Alexander, Years & Years is a British synthpop band that gained popularity with their debut album “Communion” in 2015. Their music features pulsating synths and soulful vocals, delivering a modern take on classic synthpop.
HAIM: While primarily categorized as an indie pop band, HAIM incorporates elements of synthpop into their music, especially on their sophomore album “Something to Tell You.” Their blend of catchy melodies and electronic textures adds depth to their sound.
Carly Rae Jepsen: Known for her chart-topping hit “Call Me Maybe,” Carly Rae Jepsen ventured into synthpop territory with her critically acclaimed album “Emotion” in 2015. The album showcased ’80s-inspired synthpop tracks, earning her praise from both fans and music critics.
M83: This French electronic music project, led by Anthony Gonzalez, is renowned for its dreamy and cinematic soundscapes. M83’s music often features lush synths and nostalgic melodies, evoking a strong synthpop influence.
Grimes: Claire Boucher, known professionally as Grimes, is a Canadian artist who blends various genres, including synthpop and electronic music. Her experimental approach and unique vocals have earned her a devoted following and critical acclaim.
Purity Ring: This Canadian electronic duo, consisting of Megan James and Corin Roddick, combines elements of synthpop with dream pop and experimental electronic music. Their atmospheric soundscapes and haunting vocals set them apart in the contemporary synthpop landscape.
Muna: This Los Angeles-based band infuses their synthpop sound with elements of darkwave and alternative pop. Muna’s music often explores themes of self-discovery and identity.
Ladyhawke: New Zealand singer-songwriter Ladyhawke (real name Pip Brown) incorporates ’80s-inspired synthpop into her music, blending it with rock and indie influences.

Critiques and Controversies in Synthpop’s History

Like any genre of music, synthpop has faced its share of critiques and controversies throughout its history. While it enjoyed widespread popularity in the 1980s and beyond, it also attracted criticism from various quarters. Here are some of the main critiques and controversies associated with synthpop:

Lack of Authenticity: One common criticism of synthpop was its perceived lack of authenticity. Critics argued that the use of synthesizers and electronic instruments often resulted in a manufactured and artificial sound, leading to accusations that some artists prioritized style over substance. This criticism was particularly directed at acts that heavily relied on programmed beats and heavily processed vocals.
Mainstream Commercialism: As synthpop gained commercial success, some critics accused certain artists and record labels of pandering to mainstream audiences and sacrificing artistic integrity in pursuit of chart-topping hits. The incorporation of pop sensibilities and catchy hooks sometimes led to accusations of “selling out.”
Gender Representation: Another controversy in synthpop’s history pertains to gender representation. In some cases, female artists were pigeonholed as mere vocalists while male producers and musicians took the spotlight. This issue was not exclusive to synthpop but was a broader concern in the music industry during that era.
Clichéd Synth Sounds: Due to the widespread use of certain synthesizers and drum machines, some critics argued that synthpop songs began to sound similar, leading to a perception of clichéd synth sounds. This criticism could be attributed to the limited availability of synthesizers at the time, resulting in some songs sharing common sonic elements.
Overcommercialization and Emptiness: As synthpop’s popularity grew, the market became flooded with bands and artists attempting to replicate the genre’s success without adding anything new or meaningful to the music. This overcommercialization and perceived emptiness in some tracks led to criticism from music purists.
Evolution and Departure from Roots: As synthpop evolved and incorporated influences from other genres, some fans and critics expressed discontent with the genre’s departure from its original sound. Artists who embraced more mainstream pop or dance styles faced backlash from those who preferred the early, more experimental synthpop sound.
Accusations of Being “Synthetic”: The very term “synthpop” sometimes led to controversy, as it was used by some detractors to dismiss the genre as overly artificial or inauthentic. The use of synthesizers and electronic instruments, while central to the genre’s identity, became a point of contention for those who favored more traditional rock or acoustic music.

Despite these critiques and controversies, synthpop remains a significant and enduring genre with a devoted fan base. Its impact on the music industry and its influence on subsequent genres like electronic dance music (EDM) and future pop cannot be denied.

Connection Between Synthpop and New Wave

Synthpop and new wave are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences between the two genres.

Synthpop:

Synthpop is a genre of electronic music that is characterized by its use of synthesizers and electronic drums. Synthpop songs often have catchy melodies and repetitive rhythms.

New Wave:

New wave is a broader genre of music that emerged in the late 1970s as a reaction to the excesses of disco and glam rock. New wave bands often incorporate elements of synthpop, but they may also incorporate other genres, such as punk, post-punk, and ska.

Some of the key similarities between synthpop and new wave include:

The use of synthesizers:

Both synthpop and new wave make extensive use of synthesizers. Synthesizers are electronic instruments that can be used to create a wide variety of sounds.

The use of electronic drums:

Both synthpop and new wave often use electronic drums. Electronic drums are drums that are triggered by electronic signals.

The use of catchy melodies:

Both synthpop and new wave songs often have catchy melodies. Catchy melodies are melodies that are easy to remember and sing along to.

Some of the key differences between synthpop and new wave include:

The use of repetitive rhythms: Synthpop songs often have repetitive rhythms. Repetitive rhythms are rhythms that are repeated over and over again. New wave songs, on the other hand, may have more varied rhythms.
The use of electronic textures: Synthpop songs often use electronic textures. Electronic textures are electronic sounds that are used to create a sense of atmosphere or mood. New wave songs, on the other hand, may use more organic sounds, such as guitars or bass.
The use of dark or futuristic themes: Synthpop songs often deal with dark or futuristic themes. Dark themes might include alienation, technology, and the future. Futuristic themes might include space travel, artificial intelligence, and the singularity. New wave songs, on the other hand, may deal with a wider variety of themes, such as love, loss, and social commentary.

Overall, synthpop and new wave are closely related genres of music. However, there are some key differences between the two genres, such as the use of repetitive rhythms and electronic textures.

Exploring Diverse Subgenres within Synthpop

Synthpop, as a genre, has evolved and diversified over the years, giving rise to various subgenres that explore different sounds, influences, and aesthetics. Here are a few notable subgenres within the realm of synthpop:

New Wave: New Wave emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a subgenre of synthpop. It combined elements of punk rock, electronic music, and pop, featuring prominent synthesizers, catchy melodies, and often introspective or socially conscious lyrics. Bands like Depeche Mode, New Order, and The Human League were key contributors to the New Wave sound.
Darkwave: Darkwave is a subgenre that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by a darker and more melancholic tone compared to traditional synthpop. It incorporates elements of gothic rock, post-punk, and electronic music, often featuring atmospheric synths, deep basslines, and introspective lyrics. Artists like Clan of Xymox, The Cure, and Gary Numan are associated with the Darkwave sound.
Electropop: Electropop combines the electronic elements of synthpop with a more pop-oriented approach. It often features catchy hooks, upbeat rhythms, and a blend of electronic and traditional instrumentation. Artists like Robyn, La Roux, and CHVRCHES have embraced the electropop sound, creating infectious and danceable synth-driven pop music.
Futurepop: Futurepop emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s, blending synthpop with elements of industrial and trance music. It often features energetic beats, melodic synth lines, and uplifting or futuristic themes. Bands like VNV Nation, Covenant, and Apoptygma Berzerk are associated with the Futurepop sound.
Synthwave: Synthwave, also known as retrowave or outrun, pays homage to the synth-driven soundtracks of 1980s films and video games. It combines nostalgic synthesizer sounds, pulsating rhythms, and a retro-futuristic atmosphere. Artists like Kavinsky, The Midnight, and Gunship have embraced the synthwave style, creating music that transports listeners back to the nostalgic aesthetics of the 1980s.
Dream Pop: While not exclusively synthpop, dream pop often incorporates synthesizers to create a dreamy, ethereal, and atmospheric sound. It combines elements of shoegaze, ambient, and pop music, featuring lush textures, reverb-soaked guitars, and dreamy vocals. Artists like Cocteau Twins, Beach House, and Chromatics explore the dream pop sound with a touch of synthpop sensibility.

These subgenres within synthpop showcase the genre’s ability to adapt, experiment, and fuse with other influences, resulting in a diverse range of sounds and styles. Each subgenre offers a unique take on synthpop, appealing to different moods, aesthetics, and musical preferences.

Conclusion

What is Synthpop music? Synthpop is a genre of music that emerged in the late 1970s and gained immense popularity in the 1980s. Characterized by the prominent use of synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic instruments, synthpop blends elements of electronic music with catchy pop melodies, creating a distinctive and futuristic sound.

Pioneering artists like Kraftwerk, Depeche Mode, and Gary Numan paved the way for the genre‘s success, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry. Synthpop’s infectious rhythms, memorable hooks, and visually captivating aesthetics made it a significant part of the new wave movement and continue to influence contemporary music.

Its timeless appeal and ability to evoke nostalgia while remaining innovative ensure that synthpop remains a beloved and enduring genre enjoyed by fans across generations.