Synthwave, a genre of electronic music that emerged in the early 2000s, has been a staple of the music scene for over two decades. Characterized by its dreamy, nostalgia-tinged soundscapes and retrofuturistic aesthetic, synthwave has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of vintage and modern elements. But is synthwave still popular? In this article, we’ll delve into the current state of the genre, exploring its evolution, notable artists, and enduring appeal.
The Rise of Synthwave
Synthwave, also known as retrowave or outrun, has its roots in the early 2000s, when a group of electronic music producers began experimenting with vintage synthesizers and drum machines. Inspired by the iconic soundtracks of 1980s films and video games, these pioneers of synthwave sought to create a new sound that was both nostalgic and futuristic.
One of the key factors that contributed to the rise of synthwave was the internet. Online platforms such as MySpace, SoundCloud, and Bandcamp enabled artists to share their music with a global audience, connecting with like-minded individuals and building a community around the genre.
The Golden Age of Synthwave
The mid-2010s are often referred to as the “Golden Age” of synthwave. During this period, the genre experienced a surge in popularity, with artists such as Power Glove, Perturbator, and Kavinsky gaining widespread recognition.
The release of the film “Drive” in 2011, featuring a synth-heavy soundtrack by Kavinsky, College, and other notable artists, helped to further propel the genre into the mainstream. The film’s success introduced synthwave to a broader audience, inspiring a new wave of artists and fans.
The Evolution of Synthwave
As synthwave continued to grow in popularity, the genre began to evolve and branch out into various sub-genres. Some notable sub-genres include:
- Darksynth: a darker, more aggressive style of synthwave, characterized by its use of distorted synths and driving beats.
- Chillwave: a more laid-back, atmospheric style of synthwave, often featuring lush pads and ambient textures.
- Outrun: a high-energy style of synthwave, inspired by the soundtracks of 1980s action films and video games.
These sub-genres have helped to keep the genre fresh and exciting, allowing artists to experiment with new sounds and styles.
Notable Synthwave Artists
Some notable synthwave artists who have made significant contributions to the genre include:
- Perturbator: a French musician known for his dark, aggressive style of synthwave.
- The Midnight: an American duo that has gained a large following for their blend of synthwave and indie rock.
- Lazerhawk: an American musician who has been a key figure in the synthwave scene, known for his dreamy, nostalgia-tinged soundscapes.
The Enduring Appeal of Synthwave
So, why is synthwave still popular? There are several reasons why this genre has endured for so long:
- Nostalgia: synthwave’s retro aesthetic and soundscapes evoke a strong sense of nostalgia in listeners, transporting them back to a bygone era.
- Escapism: synthwave’s dreamy, futuristic soundscapes offer a form of escapism, allowing listeners to temporarily forget about the stresses of everyday life.
- Community: the synthwave community is known for its camaraderie and shared passion for the genre, with many artists and fans collaborating and supporting one another.
The Influence of Synthwave on Other Genres
Synthwave’s influence can be heard in a variety of other genres, including:
- Electronic music: synthwave’s use of vintage synthesizers and drum machines has inspired a new generation of electronic music producers.
- Indie rock: synthwave’s blend of nostalgia and futurism has influenced indie rock bands such as The 1975 and Pale Waves.
- Video game soundtracks: synthwave’s retrofuturistic soundscapes have been featured in numerous video game soundtracks, including the popular “Hotline Miami” series.
The Future of Synthwave
As synthwave continues to evolve and branch out into new sub-genres, it’s clear that the genre is here to stay. With its unique blend of nostalgia and futurism, synthwave has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, inspiring a new generation of artists and fans.
In conclusion, synthwave is still very much popular, with a thriving community of artists and fans who continue to push the boundaries of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned synthwave enthusiast or just discovering the genre, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of synthwave.
| Artist | Notable Releases |
|---|---|
| Perturbator | The Uncanny Valley, New Model |
| The Midnight | Endless Summer, Kids |
| Lazerhawk | Redline, Dream Razer |
- Drive (2011) – a film featuring a synth-heavy soundtrack by Kavinsky, College, and other notable artists.
- Hotline Miami (2012) – a video game featuring a synthwave soundtrack by Perturbator, Kavinsky, and other artists.
What is Synthwave Music?
Synthwave music, also known as retrowave, is a genre of electronic music that draws inspiration from 1980s and 1990s pop culture, particularly from the soundtracks of old sci-fi and action movies, as well as classic video games. It is characterized by its dreamy, nostalgia-tinged sound, often featuring lush synthesizers, driving drum machines, and catchy melodies.
Synthwave artists often incorporate elements of nostalgia into their music, drawing from the aesthetics of old VHS tapes, neon-lit cityscapes, and retro-futuristic visions of the future. The genre has gained a significant following online, with many artists releasing their music on platforms such as Bandcamp and YouTube.
Is Synthwave Still Popular?
Yes, synthwave is still a popular genre of music, with a dedicated fan base and a steady stream of new artists emerging. While its popularity may have peaked in the mid-2010s, synthwave continues to inspire new generations of music fans and artists. The genre’s nostalgic appeal and retro-futuristic aesthetic continue to captivate audiences, and its influence can be heard in a wide range of musical styles.
Despite the rise of new musical trends and styles, synthwave remains a vibrant and active community, with many artists pushing the boundaries of the genre and exploring new sounds and themes. The genre’s popularity can be seen in the success of synthwave festivals and concerts, as well as the continued growth of online communities and forums dedicated to the genre.
What Inspired the Synthwave Movement?
The synthwave movement was inspired by a range of factors, including the nostalgia for 1980s and 1990s pop culture, the rise of electronic music, and the growing popularity of online music platforms. The genre was also influenced by the work of early electronic music pioneers, such as Jean-Michel Jarre and Vangelis, who helped to shape the sound of synthwave.
The synthwave movement was also driven by a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, particularly the futuristic visions of the 1980s and 1990s. Many synthwave artists drew inspiration from old sci-fi movies, video games, and TV shows, as well as the aesthetics of old VHS tapes and cassette tapes. This nostalgia for a retro-futuristic past continues to drive the synthwave movement today.
Who Are Some Notable Synthwave Artists?
Some notable synthwave artists include Power Glove, Perturbator, and Kavinsky, who are known for their dark and moody soundscapes. Other notable artists include Mitch Murder, who is known for his bright and colorful sound, and FM-84, who is known for his catchy and upbeat melodies.
These artists, along with many others, have helped to shape the sound of synthwave and push the boundaries of the genre. They have also inspired a new generation of synthwave artists, who are continuing to explore new sounds and themes. The synthwave community is known for its collaborative spirit, with many artists working together on projects and sharing their music online.
How Has Synthwave Influenced Other Genres of Music?
Synthwave has had a significant influence on other genres of music, particularly in the realms of electronic and pop music. Many artists have incorporated elements of synthwave into their sound, drawing from the genre’s nostalgic appeal and retro-futuristic aesthetic.
Synthwave’s influence can be heard in a wide range of musical styles, from indie rock to hip-hop. The genre’s use of lush synthesizers and driving drum machines has also influenced the sound of contemporary electronic music, with many artists drawing from synthwave’s sonic palette. Synthwave’s influence can also be seen in the growing popularity of retro-futuristic aesthetics in music videos and live performances.
What Is the Future of Synthwave?
The future of synthwave is uncertain, but the genre continues to evolve and adapt to new musical trends and styles. Many synthwave artists are experimenting with new sounds and themes, incorporating elements of other genres into their music.
As the synthwave community continues to grow and diversify, it is likely that the genre will continue to influence other styles of music. The genre’s nostalgic appeal and retro-futuristic aesthetic are likely to remain popular, and its influence can be seen in the growing popularity of retro-futuristic aesthetics in music videos and live performances. Despite the rise of new musical trends and styles, synthwave remains a vibrant and active community, with a dedicated fan base and a steady stream of new artists emerging.
How Can I Get Involved in the Synthwave Community?
Getting involved in the synthwave community is easy, with many online platforms and forums dedicated to the genre. Fans can connect with other synthwave enthusiasts on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, as well as online forums such as Reddit’s r/synthwave.
Fans can also attend synthwave festivals and concerts, which are becoming increasingly popular. Many synthwave artists also release their music on platforms such as Bandcamp and YouTube, making it easy for fans to discover new music and support their favorite artists. By getting involved in the synthwave community, fans can connect with other like-minded individuals and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the genre.