Why Did Synthesizers Become So Popular in 80s Music?
The 1980s witnessed a significant shift in the music industry with the syrnthesizer becoming a defining instrument for numerous artists and genres. This transformation was driven by a combination of technological advancements, unique sound aesthetics, and cultural shifts that aligned with the decade's zeitgeist.
Origins and Early Popularity
It all started with Walter Carlos's Switched on Bach in 1968, which used a synthesizer for the first time. By the late 1930s, the theremin, a precursor to the synthesizer, was already making its mark in film scores and avant-garde performances. The 1960s saw more mainstream artists like Bob Moog and Don Buchla experimenting with synthesizers, but it wasn't until the 1970s that they began to be adopted by jazz, funk, and rock musicians.
Key Reasons for Synthesizers' Popularity in the 1980s
Technological Advancements
The late 1970s and early 1980s marked a period of significant advancements in synthesizer technology, making them more accessible to musicians. Instruments like the Yamaha DX7 and Roland Juno-106 quickly became staples in studios and live performances. While early synthesizers were expensive and required maintenance, the price eventually dropped, making them more affordable.
New Sound Aesthetics
The unique sounds produced by synthesizers offered a fresh alternative to traditional instruments. Artists could now create a wide range of tones, from lush pads to sharp leads. This versatility allowed them to explore new musical territories and genres, contributing to the emergence of subgenres like synth-pop, new wave, and electronic dance music.
Rise of Electronic Music
Genres such as synth-pop, new wave, and electronic dance music saw a surge in popularity during the 1980s, heavily relying on synthesizers. Notable artists like Depeche Mode, Kraftwerk, and Duran Duran showcased the potential of synthesizers in mainstream music, helping to lay the groundwork for their widespread adoption.
Cultural Shifts
The 1980s were marked by a fascination with technology and futurism, influenced by the rise of computer culture and science fiction. Synthesizers embodied this spirit, aligning with the decade's aesthetic and themes. The cultural shift towards embracing technology and innovation further contributed to the synthesizer's popularity.
Influence of Music Videos
The advent of MTV in 1981 brought visual elements to music, and bands that used synthesizers often created visually striking performances. This helped popularize their music further, as visual and aural experiences became increasingly important in capturing public interest.
Production Techniques
Producers began to favor synthesizers for their versatility and ease of use in recording. Layering synthesizer tracks allowed for richer, more complex arrangements, which became a hallmark of the 1980s sound. This shift in production techniques further cemented the synthesizer's place in the music industry.
Overall, synthesizers became a defining characteristic of 1980s music, shaping the sound of the decade and influencing countless artists and genres in the years that followed. The combination of technological advancements, new sound aesthetics, cultural shifts, and production techniques made synthesizers not just a tool but a transcendental force in the music landscape of the 1980s.