Synthwave, also known as retrowave or outrun. Is a genre of electronic music that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers and drum machines.
They create a sound reminiscent of the music of the 1980s. In this essay, we will delve deeper into the history and characteristics of synthwave, its cultural significance, and the impact it has had on the music industry.

Origins

The origins of synthwave can be traced back to the early 2000s. When a group of artists began experimenting with electronic music heavily influenced by the sounds of the 1980s. These artists, such as Mitch Murder, Kavinsky, and Miami Nights 1984, created music characterized by a retro-futuristic sound that incorporated elements of pop, rock, and electronic music. At the time, their work went relatively unnoticed, but with the rise of social media platforms such as SoundCloud and Bandcamp in the mid-2010s, independent artists were finally able to share their music with a wider audience. This gave rise to a new wave of synthwave artists who helped propel the genre to new heights.

Characteristics

One of the defining characteristics of synthwave is its use of synthesizers and drum machines to create a sound that is both nostalgic and futuristic. The music is often instrumental, with a focus on creating a mood or atmosphere rather than on lyrics or vocals. The sound of the genre can range from upbeat and energetic to dark and brooding, depending on the artist and their influences.

Aesthetic

Another defining characteristic of synthwave is its visual aesthetic. The imagery of the genre often includes neon colors, palm trees, sunsets, and other elements of 1980s pop culture. This aesthetic is often seen in the cover art for albums and singles, as well as in music videos and live performances.

Nostalgia

The cultural significance of synthwave lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time, while also incorporating modern production techniques and influences. The music is often associated with a sense of escapism. Allowing listeners to temporarily leave behind the stresses of modern life and transport themselves to a different time and place. This has made the genre popular among fans of science fiction and retro-futuristic culture.

Impact on pop cuture

Moreover, synthwave has had a significant impact on popular culture beyond the music industry. The visual aesthetic of the genre has been incorporated into fashion, art, and design, with many designers drawing inspiration from the neon colors and futuristic imagery associated with synthwave. The genre has also influenced film and television, with many filmmakers and showrunners incorporating elements of the genre into their work. For instance, the Netflix series “Stranger Things” features a synthwave-inspired score that has become as much a part of the show’s identity as its characters and plot.

Cyberpunk subgenre

One of the most successful artists in the synthwave genre is Isidor, a Serbian musician known for his dark and cinematic sound. Isidor’s music often incorporates elements of horror and science fiction, creating a sense of tension and unease that sets his work apart from other artists in the genre. His most famous albums include “3218” and “Lord of Synth,”. Both of which have been well-received by critics and fans alike.

Conclusion

The impact of synthwave on the music industry cannot be overstated. In recent years, the genre has gained a significant following, with many synthwave artists achieving mainstream success. For instance, French musician Kavinsky achieved international success with his 2010 single “Nightcall,” which was featured in the movie “Drive” and subsequently became a hit. Similarly, the British band The Midnight has gained a large following with their blend of synthwave and pop music. Furthermore, synthwave has also helped to revive interest in analog synthesisers, which had fallen out of favour in the