Author : Jennifer Stone
Pop is not just music but a culture that nurtures millions of artists and billions of fans. It is one of the most diversified music genres that encompasses the hearts of millions of music lovers all around the world that capable of constantly evolving. Its dynamic features and genre-bending styles make it one of the most dynamic music styles that always seems to have a broader audience range since its beginning. The popularity of the music genre is also dependent on its unique features of catchy melodies, relatable and simple lyricism as well as engaging strong structures. The songs usually have a hook which can make listeners become a fan.
When it comes to the cultural significance of pop music, it cannot be overstated. It is not just a music genre but also a reflection of society and community. Creating trends and statements, the pop music industry has a wide influence in fashion, food, business, and sometimes in the political aspects. Being a popular culture that resonates with mass audiences, pop has the ability to create a greater influence on the music industry as well as the fans or music lovers. It has a unifying force that channels through the mass. Let’s explore more about this music genre which has become a part of everyone’s life.
The Origin of Pop Music [1950s-1960s]
The birth of this music genre took place back in the 1950s and 1960s when music artists started drawing influences from different genres in order to create something new, unique, and captivating. Blending the versatile flavors of rock n roll, blues, RnB as well as country music; pop music came into the industry and offered music lovers a captivating musical experience. While rock n roll added a fair dose of energy and rebellion, country helped to add lyrical depth which is further complemented by the rhythm and blues with melodic texture. The early era of pop music introduced global music lovers to artists or musical acts such as The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Motown acts, and many others who are considered to be the pioneers of pop music as well as the industry.
It goes without saying that the technological advancement and evolution of television and radio are also one of the driving factors of Pop’s popularity. With wider exposure and greater influence in the market, pop music quickly made its place as everyone’s favorite. The birth of pop music has created an empowering moment in the music industry. With catchy melodies and a wider appeal, pop music quickly formed an intimate connection with the listeners.
Fruitful Experimentation [1970s-1980s]
After the birth of pop, music artists started different experimentation in pop in order to create a diversified genre that can represent the unique and dynamic essence of the genre. By the time of 1970s to 1980s; a hefty dose of experimental pop music can be found with the rise of the sub-genres like punk, funk, disco, and many others. Legendary pop artists of the era like Madonna, Price, The Clash, Donna Summer, and others have played vital in paving the path for experimental pop music that is captivating and capable of resonating with mass listeners. These musical developments are further cultivated by cultural and social movements which also reflect the evolution of the society.
With the expansion of subgenres, pop became even more versatile and a part of daily life. Disco-pop introduced infectious dance rhythms with melodic beats that can invite everyone to the dance floor. The raw energy is further blended with catchy grooves and bass lines for funk. The pop-punk flavors did not fail to captivate music lovers of all ages, especially the youth. The significant impact of pop music is also noticeable in the gambling industry as Las Vegas and Los Angeles are considered to be the epitomes of pop music culture. The addictive essence of pop is quite invigorating and it is capable of enveloping the atmosphere of an event. Similarly, a wide influence of the pop industry can be found in the fashion industry as well and it goes without saying that pop stars are the biggest global fashion icons. It is safe to say that pop music opened many new dimensions which was reflected in different industries as well as the economy.
Globalization with Digital Revolution (1990s Onward)
Technological advancement is one of the driving factors of music which helped to bring wider and more effective utilization of digital music. The music productions improved drastically and offered more room for creative projects and experimenting with different sounds, styles, and ideas. It is the time when music videos become even more crucial for visual representation and storytelling. With MTV and later on YouTube, the popularity of pop music went sky-high. It would not have been possible without the precious contributions of some of the best artists and evergreen legends such as Micheal Jackson, Britney Spears, Amy Winehouse, Beyoncé, and many others.
A fair influence of hip-hop music can be found in pop with many pop singers collaborating with the rappers for their exclusive music projects. With international collaborations taking place. The 2000s and 2010s brought a fusion taste in Pop which created a huge buzz among music lovers. It offers catchy and captivating hooks that offer a lasting impact on the listeners. By the time of 2020s, a wide influence of global cultures could be noticed in the music projects where pop music broke all the lingual barriers by making them more accessible and listenable to all. The mainstream success of pop music is further enhanced by the influence of social media and fan engagement. Though pop music is greatly commercialized, it became ‘pop’ popular by simply being organic and authentic. The simplicity of pop music is more capable of catering to a global audience based than any other music genre.
The advantages of the digital revolution and globalization allow pop music to become more diverse with a vision to reshape the music industry. The sense of activism and advocacy made pop music more empowering for everyone. Thanks to inspirational artists like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Adele, and many others who always catered to the needs of their fans while paving a new creative wave in the music industry.
Current Pop Trends and a Future Reflection
Pop music is an ever-evolving music genre that is always at the top of headlines. It can reflect trends, social impacts, and other cultural activities that are currently being shaped by technology and sustainability. Pop music is dominant like ever and it is currently blurring its own boundaries with more innovative and dynamic values to it. Pop music is not just music anymore but has become the voice for many that speak about love, life, friendship, and other humans that need to be celebrated. Online users on social media are using pop songs as their voice of expression and sometimes to protest as well.
Technological advancement is one of the most trending factors that is driving more innovation in the pop industry. Virtual reality and AI are being used for a wider application in music which is helping produce more genre-bending creations. By unifying the global pop industries, currently, pop music has different genres based on region and unique styles such as Latin Pop, K-pop, J-pop, and many others. When it comes to the most popular subgenres, dream pop, pop rap, pop punk, disco-pop, synth-pop, and many others belong to the list. With cross-genre pollination, the pop industry is constantly driving more innovation among all. The industry is offering more independent voices while projecting a fruitful future for all kinds of music artists. Due to its adaptability and evolution; the mother genre pop will be staying in the industry forever with a wider influence on global music lovers.
Most Popular Pop Music Artists
The significant progress of the pop music industry would not have been possible without the timeless contributions of different pop stars from various regions. Through every era, a bunch of new music artists are introduced to the music scene who leave a lasting impression on listeners’ minds. The list of most influential pop artists includes bands, musical groups, solo acts, and duo projects too. Let’s check some of the biggest names in the industry.
- Westlife
- Backstreet Boys
- Beyoncé
- Rihanna
- Coldplay
- Ed Sheeran
- John Mayer
- Justin Bieber
- Lana Del Rey
- Billie Eilish
- Taylor Swift
- The Weeknd
- Bruno Mars
- Imagine Dragons
- Adele
- Ariana Grande
- Lady Gaga
- Miley Cyrus
- Post Malone
- Justin Timberlake
There are many other talented pop artists and musical acts who have offered some of the best pop tracks of all time. While there will be always a mixture of new-age artists and experienced veterans; the authentic essence of pop remains the same which is to resonate with the mass audiences. Stay tuned and find out more Pop Music!
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