Category: Pop

Pop Music

Modern pop music originated from the United States and the United Kingdom. Even though it is internationally recognized, most regions in the world have their own variation of pop music. Pop music started around the beginning of ‘The Jazz Age.’ At that time, it was referred to as ‘Dance Music.’ The difference, however, is that dance music is basically any music form that is made for dancing. Pop, on the other hand, has meaningful lyrics. It can be listened to. It is often contrasted with other popular music genres such as soul and rock. Pop music has produced the most hits in the music industry. Popular pop musicians are; Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry and Justin Timberlake.

Pop music has evolved over time and it continues to do so. It is popular among the urban middle class population and it can be said to be the origin of other music genres such as country and blues. In the 1950s the term pop music was used in Britain to refer to rock n roll. In the 1960s, it was often used to describe beat music. It was also used in opposition to rock music. It was however, more commercial than rock music which aimed to appeal to particular audiences and to meet a specific taste. Pop music seemed to be more about profits than the art

The Effects Of Pop Music

Pop music has produced the highest number of hits because it is upbeat and it focuses on common themes. The lyrics of most pop music songs are said to have had both positive and negative impacts on society. Changes and evolution in the pop music have shaped popular culture and morals. The new trends determine what is considered ‘cool’ and what is not because pop music reflects emerging trends. It has helped in shaping fusion genres such as R&B, baroque pop, power pop, pop rock, psychedelic pop, smooth jazz, country pop, electropop, Indie pop, Latin pop and jangle pop.

It has helped in promoting professionalism in music since it puts so much emphasis in technology and production. It has spread from just America and Britain and become an internationally recognized genre. Most regions in the world have their own form of pop. Korea, for example, has its own distinct pop music form that has greatly contributed to the Korean music industry. Pop music has facilitated globalization and cultural integration.

Characteristics Of Pop Music

Pop music is not focused on any specific audience. It is meant to appeal to just about everyone that would listen and is therefore very commercial. It is used to reflect emerging trends and not specific ideologies. It is, therefore, focused on recordings and technology and not on live performance. Pop music is often repetitive to create a rhythmic element that stands out.

Pop music is danceable but the lyrics can also be listened to. They are usually about common themes such as romantic relationships. Pop music uses Classical European tone for chord progressions and harmony. It is more dominant in America and Britain but is accepted globally.