Gary Numan

Definition

Gary Numan is a British musician and songwriter known for his pioneering work in the genres of New Wave and Synthpop during the late 1970s and early 1980s. He gained fame with his hit 'Cars' and is recognized for his use of synthesizers and electronic music technology, which significantly influenced the sound of popular music in that era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gary Numan's debut album, 'Tubeway Army,' was released in 1979 and included the groundbreaking single 'Are 'Friends' Electric?'.
2. He achieved mainstream success with his hit song 'Cars' in 1980, which became a defining track of the Synthpop genre.
3. Numan was one of the first artists to use synthesizers prominently in his music, helping to establish electronic sounds as a staple in pop music.
4. His distinctive visual style, often featuring futuristic themes and fashion, contributed to his identity as an iconic figure in New Wave culture.
5. Numan's influence extends beyond his own music; he has inspired countless artists in various genres, including industrial rock and electronic music.

Review Questions

• How did Gary Numan's use of synthesizers impact the evolution of New Wave and Synthpop music?
  • Gary Numan's pioneering use of synthesizers greatly shaped the sound and style of New Wave and Synthpop music. By integrating electronic instruments into his compositions, he created a new sonic palette that distinguished his work from traditional rock. His hit 'Cars' showcased these innovations and set a standard for future artists in the genre to explore electronic sounds, ultimately leading to the widespread acceptance of synthesizers in mainstream pop music.
• Evaluate the significance of Gary Numan's debut album 'Tubeway Army' within the context of late 1970s music trends.
  • Gary Numan's debut album 'Tubeway Army' was significant as it captured the emerging trends of electronic and punk influences prevalent in late 1970s music. The album's lead single 'Are 'Friends' Electric?' not only achieved commercial success but also reflected a shift towards more experimental sounds that diverged from conventional rock. This blending of styles made Numan a key figure in shaping the direction of New Wave music, influencing many artists who followed.
• Assess Gary Numan's lasting influence on contemporary music genres and how his innovations continue to resonate today.
  • Gary Numan's lasting influence on contemporary music can be seen through his impact on various genres such as electronic, industrial rock, and synthwave. His early adoption of synthesizers paved the way for artists across generations to explore electronic instrumentation. Today, many modern musicians cite Numan as an inspiration for their own work, demonstrating how his innovative approach to sound continues to resonate within both mainstream and underground music scenes.

Related terms

Synthesizer: An electronic instrument that generates audio signals and is often used in music production to create a wide range of sounds, central to the development of Synthpop.

New Wave: A genre of music that emerged in the late 1970s, characterized by its eclectic style and incorporation of punk influences, synthesizers, and pop sensibilities.

Tubeway Army: The band Gary Numan formed in 1976, which laid the groundwork for his solo career and helped establish his signature sound combining rock with electronic elements.