Electronic music

Definition

Electronic music refers to a genre of music that primarily involves the use of electronic devices and technology to produce sound. This genre encompasses a wide range of styles and subgenres, including techno, house, ambient, and drum and bass, all characterized by the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and computer software for music production. Electronic music has played a significant role in the evolution of popular music, influencing both mainstream and underground scenes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electronic music began in the early 20th century with experimental composers like Edgar Varèse and John Cage, who explored new sounds using early electronic instruments.
2. The 1970s saw the rise of disco and synthesizer-based pop, which helped popularize electronic music in mainstream culture.
3. In the 1980s, genres like techno and house emerged from urban centers like Detroit and Chicago, driven by underground dance scenes.
4. The development of affordable music production software in the 1990s revolutionized electronic music, allowing more artists to create and distribute their work independently.
5. Today, electronic music is one of the most popular genres globally, with major festivals and events dedicated to showcasing various subgenres and artists.

Review Questions

• How did early experimental composers contribute to the development of electronic music as a genre?
  • Early experimental composers like Edgar Varèse and John Cage laid the groundwork for electronic music by exploring unconventional sounds and incorporating new technology into their compositions. Their innovative approaches encouraged later musicians to experiment with electronic instruments and techniques, leading to the emergence of electronic music as a distinct genre. This exploration of sound paved the way for future developments in electronic music production and performance.
• Discuss the impact of DJ culture on the popularity and evolution of electronic music in the late 20th century.
  • DJ culture played a crucial role in popularizing electronic music by bringing it to live audiences in clubs and festivals. DJs began to mix tracks from various genres, creating a unique experience that highlighted the rhythm and energy of electronic beats. This cultural movement not only helped establish genres like house and techno but also fostered a community around dance music that continues to thrive today.
• Evaluate how advancements in technology have transformed the production and distribution of electronic music in recent decades.
  • Advancements in technology, particularly the rise of affordable digital audio workstations (DAWs) and software plugins, have dramatically transformed how electronic music is produced and distributed. Artists can now create high-quality tracks from home studios without needing extensive equipment or studio time. This democratization of music production has led to an explosion of creativity within the genre, enabling diverse voices to emerge while also facilitating global distribution through online platforms. The accessibility of technology has reshaped the landscape of electronic music, allowing it to evolve continuously.

Related terms

Synthesizer: An electronic instrument that generates audio signals to create sound, often used in the production of electronic music.

DJ culture: A cultural movement centered around DJs who mix recorded music for live audiences, significantly influencing the popularity of electronic music.

Sampling: The technique of taking a portion of a sound recording and reusing it in a different song or piece of music, commonly used in electronic music production.