Electronic music has been around for over half a century, but it wasn’t until the late 20th century that it truly gained mainstream popularity. In the last few decades, electronic music has exploded into a diverse and vibrant genre, with sub-genres like techno, house, and EDM dominating the charts and dance floors around the world. But when did this revolution in music start? This decade-by-decade exploration will take a closer look at the key events, artists, and innovations that helped shape the rise of electronic music. So buckle up and get ready to dance through the decades!
The 1960s: The Birth of Electronic Music
The Emergence of Early Electronic Instruments
The 1960s marked a significant turning point in the history of electronic music. This was a time when early electronic instruments were invented, which revolutionized the way music was created. The Ondes Martenot, the Theremin, and the Synthesizer were among the pioneering electronic instruments that emerged during this period.
The Ondes Martenot, developed by French engineer Maurice Martenot in the 1920s, was an early electronic instrument that used a series of keys to generate sounds. The instrument worked by generating a continuous wave of audio frequency, which was then modified by a series of switches to produce different timbres. The Ondes Martenot was used in several notable classical compositions, including the ballet “Romeo and Juliet” by Sergei Prokofiev.
The Theremin, invented by Russian inventor Leon Theremin in the 1920s, was another groundbreaking electronic instrument. The Theremin was the first instrument to be able to generate sounds without any physical input from the player. It worked by detecting the proximity of the player’s hands to two metal antennas, which controlled the frequency of the generated sound. The Theremin became famous for its eerie, otherworldly sounds and was featured in several science fiction films of the 1950s.
The Synthesizer, developed by American engineer Robert Moog in the 1960s, was another landmark electronic instrument. The Synthesizer allowed musicians to create a wide range of sounds by manipulating different audio parameters, such as frequency, amplitude, and filtering. The Moog Synthesizer became a popular instrument in the 1970s and was used by many prominent rock and pop musicians, including Gary Wright, Keith Emerson, and Rick Wakeman.
Overall, the emergence of these early electronic instruments marked a significant turning point in the history of electronic music. These instruments allowed musicians to create new sounds and textures that were previously impossible, and laid the foundation for the development of electronic music in the decades to come.
Pioneering Artists and Composers
Wendy Carlos
Wendy Carlos, born Walter Carlos, was an American composer and electronic musician who rose to fame in the 1960s. Carlos’ groundbreaking album, “Switched-On Bach,” released in 1968, was the first classical album to win a Grammy Award. The album featured Carlos’ arrangements of various Bach compositions, performed entirely on a Moog synthesizer. This innovative approach to classical music paved the way for the integration of electronic instruments into classical music, opening up new possibilities for composers and musicians alike.
Pierre Schaeffer
Pierre Schaeffer, a French composer and musicologist, is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of electronic music. In the late 1940s, Schaeffer founded the Studio d’Essai (Experimental Studio) at the Radiodiffusion-Télévision Française (RTF), where he developed new techniques for creating electronic music. His 1950s album, “Symphonie pour un homme seul” (Symphony for One Man), showcased his innovative use of tape splicing and manipulation, which laid the foundation for the development of musique concrète. Schaeffer’s work heavily influenced the subsequent generation of electronic music composers, including the prominent figures of the 1960s.
John Cage
John Cage, an American composer, music theorist, and philosopher, played a significant role in the development of electronic music in the 1960s. Although not primarily an electronic music composer, Cage’s groundbreaking work in the 1950s, such as “Imaginary Landscape No. 4” and “Atlas Eclipticalis,” incorporated unconventional instrumentation and innovative techniques, which contributed to the growth of the electronic music movement. His exploration of chance-based composition methods and incorporation of everyday sounds into his works also influenced the direction of electronic music, particularly in the areas of ambient and experimental music.
The 1970s: The Evolution of Electronic Music
The Development of the Moog Synthesizer
The Moog synthesizer was a revolutionary electronic musical instrument that emerged in the 1970s. It was invented by Dr. Robert Moog, who had a background in engineering and physics. The synthesizer was designed to produce a wide range of sounds by generating electrical signals that could be modified and shaped in various ways.
One of the first models of the Moog synthesizer was the Model D, which was introduced in 1971. This instrument was the first to use the Moog’s unique voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) design, which allowed for the synthesis of a wide range of complex sounds. The Model D was also the first synthesizer to be used in recording studios, and it quickly became a popular choice among recording artists.
The Minimoog, which was introduced in 1971, was a smaller and more affordable version of the Model D. It was designed to be more portable and easier to use, and it quickly became one of the most popular synthesizers of the 1970s. The Minimoog was known for its warm and rich sound, and it was used by a wide range of artists, from jazz and rock musicians to classical composers.
The liberation of analog synthesis, which refers to the ability to manipulate and control the sounds produced by the synthesizer in real time, was a major development in the evolution of electronic music. The Moog synthesizer was one of the first instruments to allow for this level of control, and it opened up new possibilities for electronic music composers and performers. With the Moog synthesizer, it was possible to create complex and evolving sounds that had never been heard before, and this helped to establish electronic music as a legitimate art form.
Electronic Dance Music and Experimental Soundscapes
Kraftwerk
Kraftwerk, a German electronic music group, emerged in the late 1960s and revolutionized the electronic music scene in the 1970s. The group, consisting of Ralf Hütter, Florian Schneider, Karl Bartos, and Wolfgang Flür, used synthesizers and other electronic instruments to create their unique sound. Their influential album “Autobahn” (1974) featured a blend of electronic beats, synthesized melodies, and conceptual lyrics inspired by technology and transportation. The album’s single “Autobahn” became an international hit and laid the foundation for the development of electronic dance music.
Brian Eno
Brian Eno, an English musician, artist, and record producer, is widely regarded as a pioneer of ambient music and electronic music. In the 1970s, Eno experimented with various electronic instruments, tape loops, and techniques to create immersive and atmospheric soundscapes. His influential album “Ambient 1: Music for Airports” (1978) explored the concept of ambient music, which aimed to create a relaxing and calming environment for listeners. Eno’s innovative approach to electronic music inspired a generation of musicians and artists to explore new possibilities in sound design and composition.
Tangerine Dream
Tangerine Dream, a German electronic music group, was formed in 1967 by Edgar Froese, Christopher Franke, and Peter Baumann. The group’s early works were heavily influenced by the experimental electronic music of the 1960s, incorporating elements of avant-garde, classical, and psychedelic music. Their album “Phaedra” (1974) marked a significant turning point in their career, as they began to incorporate more structured compositions and intricate soundscapes into their music. Tangerine Dream’s unique blend of electronic and classical elements contributed to the development of electronic dance music and influenced countless artists in the genre.
The 1980s: The Mainstreaming of Electronic Music
The Rise of Electronic Pop and Rock
Depeche Mode
Depeche Mode, a British electronic band formed in 1980, rose to prominence during the 1980s with their unique blend of synth-pop and dark, brooding lyrics. Albums such as “Speak & Spell” (1981), “A Broken Frame” (1982), and “Construction Time Again” (1983) showcased their innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments, making them one of the most successful electronic bands of the decade.
Eurythmics
Eurythmics, a British duo consisting of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, emerged in the early 1980s with a distinctive blend of new wave, pop, and electronic music. Their hits, including “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and “Here Comes the Rain,” featured innovative production techniques and incorporated a variety of electronic instruments, cementing their status as one of the most influential acts of the 1980s.
New Order
New Order, an English rock band formed in 1980 after the breakup of Joy Division, was instrumental in the rise of electronic pop and rock during the 1980s. Albums such as “Movement” (1981), “Power, Corruption & Lies” (1983), and “Blue Monday” (1983) highlighted their incorporation of synthesizers and electronic sounds into their music, making them one of the pioneering forces in the electronic music scene of the decade.
The Advent of Sampling and MIDI
MIDI Controller
The MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controller, introduced in the early 1980s, revolutionized the way electronic music was created and produced. This device allowed musicians to connect a range of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments, enabling them to play multiple instruments simultaneously and create complex compositions with ease. The MIDI controller was a game-changer for electronic music production, providing greater flexibility and control over the creative process.
Sampling Technology
The 1980s also saw the advent of powerful sampling technology, which allowed musicians to incorporate sounds from a wide range of sources into their electronic compositions. From the distinctive sounds of classic film scores to the rhythms of funk and soul music, sampling opened up new possibilities for electronic music producers, enabling them to create unique and innovative sounds that blended elements of different genres and styles.
The LinnDrum
One of the most significant developments in the 1980s was the introduction of the LinnDrum, an electronic drum machine that quickly became a staple of many popular music productions. With its clean, crisp sounds and versatile programming options, the LinnDrum helped to define the sound of countless hit records and became an essential tool for many electronic music producers.
These technological advancements played a crucial role in the mainstreaming of electronic music during the 1980s, enabling artists to create complex, innovative compositions that pushed the boundaries of traditional music production.
The 1990s: The Electronic Music Boom
The Emergence of Electronic Subgenres
Techno
During the 1990s, techno emerged as one of the most prominent electronic subgenres. It originated in Detroit, Michigan, and was characterized by its use of synthesizers, drum machines, and futuristic sounds. Techno producers such as Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson experimented with different beats and soundscapes, creating a distinct sound that was heavily influenced by science fiction and futurism. Techno quickly gained popularity in clubs and raves across the world, and its influence can still be heard in electronic music today.
Trance
Trance emerged in the early 1990s as a subgenre of techno, characterized by its use of long, evolving melodies and hypnotic rhythms. Trance producers such as Sven Väth, Paul van Dyk, and Tiësto created a sound that was influenced by both classical music and the burgeoning rave scene. Trance music gained a global following in the mid-1990s, and its popularity continued to grow throughout the decade.
Drum and Bass
Drum and bass emerged in the early 1990s as a subgenre of electronic dance music, characterized by its use of hard-hitting beats and aggressive basslines. Drum and bass producers such as Goldie, Liquid, and Fabio experimented with different sounds and techniques, creating a distinct sound that was heavily influenced by reggae and dub music. Drum and bass quickly gained popularity in clubs and raves across the world, and its influence can still be heard in electronic music today.
The Growth of Rave Culture and Festivals
The 1990s marked a significant turning point in the history of electronic music, as the genre began to gain widespread mainstream popularity. One of the key factors contributing to this rise was the growth of rave culture and festivals, which provided a new platform for electronic music to be experienced and enjoyed by a wider audience.
The Rave Scene
The rave scene, which originated in the UK in the late 1980s, quickly spread to other parts of the world and became a defining feature of the 1990s electronic music landscape. Raves were underground parties that took place in warehouses, abandoned buildings, and other unconventional venues, and were characterized by their all-night dancing, psychedelic lighting, and eclectic playlists.
Raves were often small, intimate affairs, but they also attracted large crowds, with some events drawing thousands of attendees. These events were more than just parties; they were cultural phenomena that challenged conventional norms and expectations, and provided a space for people to express themselves freely and explore new ideas.
Outdoor Festivals
As the popularity of electronic music continued to grow, so too did the size and scope of the events that hosted it. In the 1990s, outdoor festivals became a common way to experience electronic music, with many events taking place in natural settings like parks, forests, and beaches.
These festivals often featured multiple stages, with a diverse range of artists playing across the course of the event. Some of the most notable festivals of the era included the legendary “Rave on the Beach” in Brighton, UK, and the “Rainbow Serpent Festival” in Australia.
Burning Man
One of the most iconic and influential electronic music events of the 1990s was Burning Man, an annual gathering that takes place in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada. The event, which originated in 1986, was initially a small, informal gathering of friends, but it quickly grew in size and scope, and became a defining feature of the electronic music scene.
Burning Man was characterized by its unique blend of music, art, and community, and its focus on self-expression and creativity. Attendees were encouraged to participate in the creation of the event, and to express themselves through music, dance, and other forms of creative expression.
In conclusion, the growth of rave culture and festivals in the 1990s played a crucial role in the rise of electronic music. These events provided a platform for electronic music to be experienced and enjoyed by a wider audience, and helped to establish the genre as a defining force in popular culture.
The 2000s: The Digital Revolution in Electronic Music
The Impact of Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
The 2000s marked a significant turning point in the history of electronic music, as the advent of digital audio workstations (DAWs) revolutionized the way musicians produced and recorded their music. DAWs provided a powerful and versatile platform for electronic music production, enabling musicians to create, record, and manipulate sound in entirely new ways.
One of the most influential DAWs of the 2000s was Propellerhead Reason, a virtual studio rack that allowed musicians to create complex, multilayered tracks using a wide range of virtual instruments and effects. Reason’s user-friendly interface and powerful audio processing capabilities made it a favorite among electronic musicians, who used it to create everything from deep house and techno to experimental ambient music.
Another important DAW that emerged in the 2000s was Ableton Live, a software suite that was particularly popular among live performers and DJs. Ableton Live’s unique “session view” allowed musicians to create and manipulate tracks in real time, enabling them to improvise and create dynamic, evolving performances.
Finally, the 2000s saw the rise of Logic Pro, a professional-grade DAW that became popular among a wide range of musicians, from hip-hop producers to indie rock bands. Logic Pro’s comprehensive suite of tools and features, including its advanced MIDI editing capabilities and vast library of virtual instruments, made it a go-to platform for many musicians looking to create high-quality electronic music.
Overall, the impact of DAWs on electronic music production in the 2000s cannot be overstated. These powerful software tools enabled musicians to create complex, multi-layered tracks with ease, opening up new avenues of creativity and experimentation in the world of electronic music.
The Influence of Electronic Music on Hip-Hop and Pop
During the 2000s, electronic music continued to gain traction in popular culture, particularly in the realms of hip-hop and pop music. Here are some key examples of how electronic music influenced these genres during this time:
- The Neptunes: This influential production duo, consisting of Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, emerged in the early 2000s and became known for their use of electronic beats and synthesizers in their productions. Their work with artists such as Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Snoop Dogg helped bring electronic music to the forefront of mainstream pop music.
- Timbaland: Another prominent producer of the 2000s, Timbaland was known for his innovative use of electronic sounds and samples in his productions. He worked with a wide range of artists, including Justin Timberlake, Nelly Furtado, and Missy Elliott, and his productions often incorporated elements of hip-hop, R&B, and dance music.
- Britney Spears: One of the most successful pop artists of the 2000s, Britney Spears frequently incorporated electronic sounds and production techniques into her music. Her 2001 album, “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me,” featured a number of electronic-influenced tracks, including the hit single “I’m a Slave 4 U.”
Overall, the 2000s saw electronic music continue to evolve and become increasingly influential in hip-hop and pop music. As production techniques and technology continued to advance, more and more artists began to incorporate electronic sounds and production techniques into their music, helping to push the boundaries of these genres and create a new sound for the 21st century.
The 2010s and Beyond: The Future of Electronic Music
The Rise of Electronic Artists and DJs
Flume
In the 2010s, the electronic music scene saw the rise of artists like Flume, an Australian record producer and DJ who quickly gained international recognition for his unique blend of electronic and indie music. Flume’s self-titled debut album, released in 2012, was a critical success and included hits like “Holdin’ On” and “On Top.” His follow-up album, “Skin,” was released in 2016 and won a Grammy Award for Best Electronic Dance Album. Flume’s sound is characterized by its atmospheric and emotive quality, blending elements of trap, future bass, and indie music to create a distinct and innovative style.
Billie Eilish
Another notable artist to emerge in the 2010s was Billie Eilish, a singer and songwriter known for her dark and introspective lyrics and electronic-inspired production. Eilish’s debut single, “Ocean Eyes,” was released in 2016 and quickly gained popularity on SoundCloud. Her subsequent releases, including the albums “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” and “Happier Than Ever,” showcased her unique style, which blended elements of electronic, pop, and hip-hop music. Eilish’s sound is characterized by its minimalist production and atmospheric textures, with lyrics that often explore themes of mental health, relationships, and self-identity.
Marshmello
Marshmello, aka Chris Comstock, is an American DJ and producer known for his distinctive helmet-shaped mask and his catchy electronic dance music. Marshmello first gained popularity in the late 2010s with hits like “Wolves” and “Silence,” which featured vocals from artists like Khalid and Alice Glass. His music incorporates elements of EDM subgenres like trap, future bass, and house music, and his productions are characterized by their high-energy, hook-driven sound. Marshmello has collaborated with a variety of artists across genres, including Bastille, Hailee Steinfeld, and Juice WRLD, and has been nominated for several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Electronic Dance Album.
The Influence of Streaming Platforms and Social Media
The advent of the 2010s brought forth a seismic shift in the way electronic music was consumed and promoted. With the rise of streaming platforms and social media, the industry underwent a profound transformation, opening up new avenues for artists to reach wider audiences and interact with fans. This section delves into the impact of Spotify, SoundCloud, and Instagram on the electronic music landscape.
Spotify
- The Birth of the Music Streaming Giant: Spotify, launched in 2008, revolutionized the way music was accessed and consumed. It provided users with a vast library of songs, curated playlists, and personalized recommendations, thus fostering a more interactive and on-demand listening experience.
- Impact on Electronic Music: Spotify played a pivotal role in the growth of electronic music by offering a platform for artists to showcase their work to a global audience. It allowed listeners to explore a diverse range of genres and subgenres, thus fostering a greater appreciation for electronic music’s multifaceted nature.
- Revenue Model: Spotify operates on a freemium model, where users can access a vast library of music for free, but with limited functionality. The premium subscription offers ad-free listening, higher-quality audio, and offline listening. This revenue model has enabled artists to earn a steady income from their music, thereby sustaining their careers.
SoundCloud
- The Democratization of Music Distribution: SoundCloud, established in 2007, emerged as a game-changer in the music industry. It provided a platform for independent artists to upload and share their music with a global audience, thereby bypassing traditional gatekeepers like record labels.
- The Rise of Bedroom Producers: SoundCloud facilitated the rise of bedroom producers, who could now release their music to a much wider audience. This democratization of music distribution gave birth to a new generation of electronic music artists who were not constrained by the limitations of traditional record labels.
- Discoverability and Promotion: SoundCloud’s user-friendly interface and its extensive community of music enthusiasts made it easier for artists to gain exposure and promote their work. It enabled emerging artists to garner support from a dedicated fan base, thus propelling them to greater heights of success.
- Visual Storytelling and Music Promotion: Instagram, launched in 2010, emerged as a powerful tool for artists to promote their music and engage with fans. With its visually-driven platform, artists could create captivating visual narratives that complemented their music, thereby enhancing their overall brand identity.
- Influencer Culture and Music Promotion: Instagram’s influencer culture allowed artists to collaborate with influencers to promote their music. Influencers, with their large followings, could amplify an artist’s reach, thereby creating a buzz around their music and helping them gain new listeners.
- Live-Streaming and Virtual Concerts: Instagram’s live-streaming feature enabled artists to connect with their fans in real-time, creating an immersive and intimate experience. Additionally, virtual concerts on Instagram provided a platform for artists to perform for audiences across the globe, thereby expanding their fan base beyond geographical boundaries.
The Evolution of Electronic Music in the Post-Internet Era
The post-internet era has brought about a new wave of electronic music genres that reflect the changing landscape of the digital world. Here are some of the most notable genres that have emerged in the 2010s and beyond:
- Vaporwave: This genre is characterized by its nostalgic, retro sound and its use of samples from 80s and 90s pop culture. Vaporwave is often associated with the internet culture and the rise of the internet as a dominant force in our lives. The genre is known for its glitchy, distorted sounds and its use of repetitive loops.
- Lo-Fi Hip-Hop: Lo-Fi Hip-Hop is a subgenre of hip-hop that emerged in the late 2010s. It is characterized by its mellow, laid-back beats and its use of samples from jazz and soul music. The genre is often associated with the DIY ethos of the internet and the rise of independent artists who use the internet to distribute their music.
- Hyperpop: Hyperpop is a genre that emerged in the mid-2010s and is characterized by its aggressive, hyperactive sound and its use of futuristic, synthetic sounds. The genre is often associated with the internet and its ability to create and spread new trends and subcultures at an unprecedented speed. Hyperpop artists often incorporate elements of other genres, such as pop, electronic, and trap music, into their sound.
Overall, the evolution of electronic music in the post-internet era reflects the changing nature of our society and the ways in which technology has transformed our lives. These new genres are not just a reflection of the internet’s impact on music, but also a testament to the endless creativity and innovation that the internet has fostered.
FAQs
1. When did electronic music first emerge?
Electronic music has its roots in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that it truly gained popularity. It was during this decade that artists like Kraftwerk and Jean Michel Jarre began to experiment with synthesizers and other electronic instruments, laying the foundation for the genre.
2. Which decade was electronic music most popular?
The 1980s were a golden age for electronic music. It was during this time that many of the genre’s most iconic artists and bands emerged, including Depeche Mode, Madonna, and Prince. Electronic music continued to evolve and diversify throughout the 1990s and beyond, but the 1980s remain a defining moment in the genre’s history.
3. What are some of the most influential electronic music artists?
There have been many influential electronic music artists throughout the years, but some of the most groundbreaking and influential include Kraftwerk, Jean Michel Jarre, Giorgio Moroder, Depeche Mode, Madonna, and Aphex Twin. These artists helped shape the sound and direction of electronic music, paving the way for future generations of producers and musicians.
4. How has electronic music evolved over the years?
Electronic music has evolved significantly since its inception in the 1960s. In the 1970s, artists began experimenting with synthesizers and other electronic instruments, laying the foundation for the genre. In the 1980s, electronic music became more mainstream, with artists like Depeche Mode and Madonna bringing it into the pop music sphere. In the 1990s and beyond, electronic music continued to diversify, with subgenres like techno, drum and bass, and dubstep emerging. Today, electronic music continues to evolve and expand, incorporating elements from all over the world and encompassing a wide range of styles and sounds.
5. What is the future of electronic music?
The future of electronic music is always changing and evolving, and it’s impossible to predict exactly where it will go next. However, one thing is certain: electronic music will continue to be a vibrant and dynamic genre, incorporating new sounds and technologies and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. With so many talented producers and musicians working in the field, the future of electronic music is bright and full of possibilities.
