Continuing our alphabetical look at vocal music today we look at pop music.
Pop music, short for popular music, is a genre that encompasses a wide range of styles, trends, and cultural influences. It is one of the most accessible and commercially successful forms of music, appealing to a broad audience across different age groups and backgrounds. As of my last update in September 2021, pop music has continued to evolve, so I'll provide a general overview while acknowledging that new developments may have occurred since then.
Origins and Evolution:
Pop music emerged in the 1950s as a response to the rise of rock and roll. It incorporated elements from various genres, including rock, R&B, jazz, and country, among others….and we have covered some of these in previous blogs (or will).
Over the decades, pop music evolved, incorporating electronic and digital production techniques, leading to the rise of “electro-pop" in the 1980s and 1990s.
In the 2000s and 2010s, pop music saw an increasing influence of hip-hop and dance music, leading to the popularisation of "pop rap" and "EDM" (Electronic Dance Music).
Characteristics of Pop Music:
Catchy Melodies: Pop music is known for its memorable and singable melodies, often designed to be instantly appealing to listeners.
Relatable Lyrics: Pop songs typically feature straightforward and relatable lyrics, focusing on universal themes like love, relationships, and personal experiences.
Emphasis on Production: Pop music often places a significant emphasis on polished production, employing studio techniques, digital effects, and auto-tune to create a clean and commercial sound.
Danceability: Many pop songs are designed to be danceable and upbeat, encouraging audience engagement and participation.
Key Figures and Influences:
Throughout its history, pop music has been shaped by numerous influential artists, such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, The Beatles, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga, to name a few.
Producers and songwriters play a crucial role in shaping the pop music landscape, including names like Max Martin, Dr. Luke, Pharrell Williams, and Ryan Tedder.
Global Reach:
Pop music's global appeal has been enhanced by the internet and digital platforms, enabling artists to reach audiences worldwide instantly.
The rise of social media has allowed artists to engage directly with their fans and promote their music in new ways.
Criticism and Commercialisation:
Pop music is not without its critics, who argue that its commercial focus can lead to a lack of artistic depth or authenticity.
Some critics argue that the pop music industry often prioritizes marketability over musical innovation.
Impact on Culture:
Pop music has a significant influence on popular culture, fashion, and even political movements.
Many iconic pop songs have become anthems that resonate with generations and mark specific historical moments.
Diversity and Inclusivity:
In recent years, pop music has seen an increase in diversity and inclusivity, with artists from different backgrounds contributing to its evolution.
Remember that pop music is a vast and constantly evolving genre, so this overview only scratches the surface. Its impact on society and culture continues to be a subject of study and fascination, and its future remains as exciting and uncertain as ever.
Structure Of The Pop Song
Most pop songs will have an intro.
Following that a pop song will follow a largely verse - chorus - verse - chorus format.
The verses will have the same tune.
The chorus will have a different tune. The lyrics of a chorus don’t change.
Songs usually finish with a coda or outro.
To mix things up sometimes a song will have a BRIDGE or MIDDLE-8.
This is a section of new lyrics, new melody, new chords…new feel.
The lead singer sings the melody.
Backing singers will harmonise behind the lead singer.
Possible Features Of Backing Singers
Harmony - All singing different notes
Unison - All singing the same notes
Descant - A higher part sung in time with the main tune (think Christmas carols in choir with the really high bit soaring over the top)
Call And Response - Responding to what the lead has sung
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