The Pioneers of New Wave: Origins and Evolution of a Revolutionary Sound
New wave music, which emerged in the late 1970s and became prominent in the 1980s, is a genre that combines elements of punk rock, electronic music, and pop. This unique blend of influences created a vibrant and innovative sound that captured the imagination of music lovers worldwide. Several key figures were instrumental in shaping this genre, and their contributions continue to influence modern music. This article explores the pioneers of new wave and the evolution of the term 'new wave' itself.
Pioneers of New Wave: Key Artists and Bands
New wave music is often credited to a variety of artists and bands who, through their creativity and experimentation, helped establish the genre. Some of the most notable pioneers include:
Talking Heads
Known for their art rock influences and innovative sound, Talking Heads were one of the most significant contributors to the new wave scene. Their albums like 'Remain in Light' and 'Cities' showcased a fusion of different music styles, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in rock music.
Devo
Devo, with their quirky style and use of synthesizers, were a prominent part of the new wave movement. Broadcast through their hit single 'Whip It,' Devo's unique sound and visual aesthetics contributed to the genre's distinct identity.
Blondie
Blondie is perhaps best known for combining punk disco and pop, achieving significant commercial success. Albums like 'Parallel Lines' and 'The Curse of Wall Street' are still celebrated for their catchy hooks and memorable music videos.
The Cars
Merging rock with new wave and pop sensibilities, The Cars brought a sophisticated and catchy sound to the genre. Hits like 'Drive' and 'You Might Think' are iconic examples of their contributions to new wave music.
Duran Duran
Duran Duran is often credited with helping to popularize the new wave genre. Their catchy hooks and stylish music videos made them one of the most successful new wave groups, with albums like 'Rio' and 'Watson PLC' setting new standards in the music industry.
The Term "New Wave": A Marketing Masterstroke
While the term 'new wave' was first used in the early 1970s by music journalists to describe edgier bands like the Velvet Underground and the New York Dolls, it gained widespread popularity during the late 1970s. The term provided a convenient label for the emerging sound, which was a variant of punk but with a more polished approach.
Managing a Musical Fad
Seymour Stein, founder of Sire Records, signed some of the CBGB bands, including the Ramones and Talking Heads. In an effort to promote his newfound roster, Stein initiated a "Don't Call it Punk" campaign, reverting to the term 'new wave'. This strategic move helped the artists land mainstream radio play, sales, and critical acclaim.
The term 'new wave' quickly became a catch-all marketing term for the diverse array of musical styles that emerged in the late 1970s and 1980s. It encompassed genres such as post-punk, pub rock, art punk, and even mainstream pop. This broad connotation allowed record labels to package and market the emerging music in a way that resonated with a wide audience.
The Velvet Underground: The Earliest Progenitor
While many bands are considered pioneers of new wave, the Velvet Underground from late 1960s New York City is the true granddaddy of the new wave sound. The band, with their pioneering approach to art rock and experimental music, laid the groundwork for what would later be classified as new wave.
Modern Lovers: A Premature Pioneer
The Modern Lovers, featuring Velvet Underground fan Jonathan Richman, recorded an album in 1972 that wouldn't see the light of day until 1976. This album, with its distinctive sound, is often considered one of the earliest examples of new wave music, predating the term by several years.
The phrase 'Hall' 'Wall' 'Call' in the first verse of Blondie's cover of 'Hanging on The Telephone' pays homage to the early days of the new wave movement, symbolizing the genre's energy and grassroots origins.
Post-Punk and Proto Punk: Related Acts
While the term 'new wave' can be applied to a wide range of bands, some, like the Ramones, the Clash, and the Sex Pistols, are better described as punk. Similarly, bands like Pere Ubu, Magazine, and Joy Division are more accurately categorized as post-punk. However, new wave terms fit better for artists such as Blondie, Elvis Costello, XTC, and the Police.
Conclusion
The pioneers of new wave music, including Talking Heads, Devo, Blondie, The Cars, and Duran Duran, played a crucial role in shaping a genre that captured the essence of the 1980s. Their innovative sound, combined with a shrewd marketing strategy, helped 'new wave' become a defining term in the music industry. Today, the influence of new wave music continues to echo in contemporary music, serving as a testament to the genre's enduring legacy.