Eastern influences

Definition

Eastern influences refer to the integration of musical styles, instruments, philosophies, and cultural elements from Eastern traditions, particularly those of Asia, into Western music. These influences played a significant role in the development of various genres, including psychedelic rock, where artists sought to expand their sound through experimentation and the incorporation of non-Western sounds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eastern influences began to emerge in Western popular music during the 1960s, coinciding with the rise of counterculture and exploration of new musical experiences.
2. Artists like The Beatles incorporated Indian instruments such as the sitar into their music, most notably in songs like 'Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)'.
3. Psychedelic rock often utilized Eastern scales and modes, creating unique soundscapes that contrasted with traditional Western tonality.
4. The use of Eastern philosophies, such as spirituality and mysticism, resonated with the themes commonly found in psychedelic rock lyrics.
5. The blending of Eastern and Western music not only expanded artistic boundaries but also fostered a greater cultural exchange between East and West during this time.

Review Questions

• How did Eastern influences contribute to the unique sound and style of psychedelic rock?
  • Eastern influences introduced new scales, instruments, and philosophical themes that enriched the sound of psychedelic rock. By incorporating instruments like the sitar and experimenting with modal scales from Eastern music traditions, artists created more diverse soundscapes. This blend allowed for an exploration of new sonic textures and emotional depth, which became hallmarks of the genre.
• In what ways did the incorporation of Eastern philosophies impact the lyrics and overall message of psychedelic rock songs?
  • The incorporation of Eastern philosophies into psychedelic rock led to lyrics that explored themes of spirituality, consciousness expansion, and self-discovery. Musicians often drew on concepts like transcendence and meditation to convey deeper messages about life and existence. This thematic shift resonated with listeners seeking an alternative perspective to mainstream culture, making these songs more meaningful.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Eastern influences on popular music beyond the psychedelic rock era.
  • The long-term effects of Eastern influences on popular music can be seen in a variety of genres that continue to embrace global sounds. From world music collaborations to hip-hop sampling traditional Eastern melodies, these influences have fostered a richer musical tapestry. Artists today still reference or incorporate these styles, demonstrating a lasting impact that has led to greater cultural fusion and understanding in music across generations.

Related terms

Raga: A traditional melodic framework in Indian classical music that uses specific notes and ornamentation to evoke different emotions and moods.

Sitars: A plucked string instrument used in Indian classical music, known for its distinctive sound and intricate melodic patterns that became popular in Western music during the 1960s.

Transcendental Meditation: A meditation technique that gained popularity in the West during the 1960s, often associated with Eastern philosophy and practices, influencing many musicians in the psychedelic rock era.