What is the Difference Between Synth-Pop and New Wave? [2024]

Have you ever wondered what sets synth-pop and new wave apart? These two music genres emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, captivating audiences with their unique sounds and styles. While they share some similarities, there are distinct differences that set them apart. In this article, we’ll delve into the characteristics, history, and influence of both synth-pop and new wave, shedding light on what makes each genre special. So, let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of synth-pop and new wave!

Quick Answer

Quick Tips and Facts
Background
Characteristics

Origins and History
Synth-Pop vs. New Wave
Influence and Legacy

Artists
FAQ
Conclusion

Recommended Links
Reference Links

Quick Answer

Synth-pop and new wave are closely related music genres that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Synth-pop is characterized by its use of synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers, often replacing traditional instruments. New wave, on the other hand, is a broader genre that encompasses various styles and influences, including punk, pop, and electronic music. While synth-pop is a subset of new wave, it is distinguished by its focus on electronic sounds and catchy melodies.

Quick Tips and Facts

Synth-pop and new wave emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Synth-pop is a subset of new wave, characterized by its use of synthesizers and electronic sounds.
New wave is a broader genre that incorporates elements of punk, pop, and electronic music.

Synth-pop gained popularity with the introduction of affordable synthesizers and drum machines.
New wave artists often experimented with different musical styles and influences.
Both genres had a significant impact on the music industry and continue to influence artists today.

Background

Before we delve into the differences between synth-pop and new wave, let’s take a brief look at their backgrounds and origins. Synth-pop emerged as a distinct genre in Japan and the United Kingdom in the late 1970s, during the post-punk era. It was part of the broader new wave movement that encompassed various styles and influences, including punk, pop, and electronic music.

Synth-pop is often used interchangeably with “electropop,” although the latter may also refer to a variant of synth-pop that emphasizes a harder, more electronic sound. The emergence of synth-pop was a significant event in melodic music, with British journalists and music critics hailing it as one of the most significant developments since the Mersey-beat era.

Characteristics

Synth-pop is defined by its primary use of synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers. These electronic instruments often replace traditional guitars, bass, and drums, giving synth-pop its distinctive sound. Many synth-pop musicians had limited musical skills, relying on technology to produce or reproduce their music. In its second phase in the 1980s, synth-pop incorporated dance beats and more conventional rock instrumentation, making the music warmer and catchier.

New wave, on the other hand, is a broader genre that encompasses a wide range of styles and influences. It emerged as a reaction to the punk movement, incorporating elements of punk, pop, and electronic music. New wave artists often experimented with different sounds and styles, pushing the boundaries of traditional rock music. While synth-pop is a subset of new wave, it is distinguished by its focus on electronic sounds and catchy melodies.

Origins and History

The origins of synth-pop and new wave can be traced back to the mid-1960s when electronic musical synthesizers became available in recording studios. Around the same time, rock music was also emerging as a distinct genre. In the mid-1970s, electronic art musicians like Jean Michel Jarre, Vangelis, and Tomita gained popularity, setting the stage for the rise of synth-pop and new wave.

The late 1970s saw the rise of punk rock, which initially rejected the “inauthentic” sound of synthesizers. However, many new wave and post-punk bands that emerged from the punk movement began incorporating synthesizers into their music. In 1979, landmark releases within the genre, such as OMD’s “Messages” and “Enola Gay,” helped establish synth-pop as a distinct genre.

By the early 1980s, synthesizers had become more affordable and easier to use. The introduction of MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) in 1982 and the development of digital audio made it simpler to create and manipulate electronic sounds. This led to a surge in synth-pop’s popularity, with artists like Duran Duran, Visage, and Spandau Ballet dominating the charts.

Synth-Pop vs. New Wave

While synth-pop is a subset of new wave, there are distinct differences between the two genres. Synth-pop is characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers, often replacing traditional instruments. It has a more electronic sound and places a strong emphasis on catchy melodies and hooks.

New wave, on the other hand, is a broader genre that encompasses various styles and influences. It incorporates elements of punk, pop, and electronic music, allowing for more experimentation and diversity. New wave artists often blended different musical styles, creating a unique sound that defied traditional categorization.

In summary, synth-pop is a specific style within the new wave genre, characterized by its electronic sound and catchy melodies. While new wave encompasses a broader range of styles and influences, synth-pop stands out for its focus on synthesizers and electronic instrumentation.

Influence and Legacy

Both synth-pop and new wave had a significant impact on the music industry and continue to influence artists today. Synth-pop’s catchy melodies and electronic sound paved the way for the rise of electronic dance music (EDM) and modern pop music. Artists like Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and The Human League helped popularize the genre and set the stage for future electronic music movements.

New wave’s experimentation and blending of different musical styles laid the foundation for alternative rock and indie music. Bands like The Cure, Talking Heads, and Blondie pushed the boundaries of traditional rock music, inspiring generations of musicians to explore new sounds and genres.

Artists

Synth-pop and new wave were home to many influential artists who shaped the genres and left a lasting impact on the music industry. Here are some notable artists from each genre:

Synth-Pop:

Depeche Mode
Pet Shop Boys

The Human League
Yazoo
New Order

New Wave:

The Cure
Talking Heads

Blondie
The Police
Duran Duran

These artists, among many others, helped define the sound and style of synth-pop and new wave, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.

FAQ

Is new wave and synth-pop the same?

While synth-pop is a subset of new wave, they are not the same. New wave is a broader genre that encompasses various styles and influences, including punk, pop, and electronic music. Synth-pop, on the other hand, is a specific style within the new wave genre, characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers and electronic sounds.

Are Synthpop and Synthwave the same?

No, synthpop and synthwave are not the same. Synthpop refers to the genre that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, characterized by its use of synthesizers and electronic sounds. Synthwave, on the other hand, is a more recent genre that emerged in the 2000s, inspired by the sounds and aesthetics of 1980s synth-pop and film soundtracks.

Is new wave considered pop?

New wave is often associated with pop music due to its catchy melodies and accessible sound. While it incorporates elements of pop music, new wave is a broader genre that encompasses various styles and influences, including punk and electronic music. It defies easy categorization and allows for more experimentation and diversity.

What’s the difference between nuwave and New Romantic?

Nuwave and New Romantic are both subgenres of new wave, but they have distinct characteristics. Nuwave, also known as new wave revival, refers to the resurgence of new wave-inspired music in the 2000s and beyond. It incorporates elements of the original new wave sound but adds a modern twist.

New Romantic, on the other hand, refers to a specific subculture and fashion movement that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was characterized by flamboyant clothing, makeup, and a romanticized view of the past. Many New Romantic artists, such as Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet, were associated with the new wave genre.

Conclusion

In conclusion, synth-pop and new wave are closely related genres that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. While synth-pop is a subset of new wave, it is distinguished by its heavy use of synthesizers and electronic sounds. New wave, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of styles and influences, allowing for more experimentation and diversity.

Both genres had a significant impact on the music industry and continue to influence artists today. Synth-pop’s catchy melodies and electronic sound paved the way for the rise of electronic dance music and modern pop music. New wave’s blending of different musical styles laid the foundation for alternative rock and indie music.

Whether you’re a fan of synth-pop or new wave, there’s no denying the lasting impact these genres have had on the music landscape. So, put on your favorite synth-pop or new wave track and let the music transport you to a time of innovation and creativity!

Reference Links

Synth-pop – Wikipedia