Robert Smith

Definition

Robert Smith is the lead singer, guitarist, and primary songwriter of the English rock band The Cure, known for their influential contributions to the post-punk and new wave movements. His distinctive voice and unique style have made him a prominent figure in music, particularly within the genres that emerged during the late 1970s and 1980s, showcasing the blend of emotional depth and innovative sounds that characterize New Wave and Synthpop.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Robert Smith's signature look includes his disheveled hair, heavy eyeliner, and distinctive fashion sense, which has become iconic within the goth and alternative scenes.
2. The Cure's album 'Disintegration,' released in 1989, is often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time and showcases Smith's lyrical depth and melodic sensibility.
3. Smith's songwriting often explores themes of love, loss, and existential angst, which resonate deeply with fans and have helped solidify The Cure's status in music history.
4. The band's use of synthesizers and drum machines in their music was pivotal in shaping the sound of New Wave, reflecting the technological innovations of the era.
5. Throughout his career, Smith has influenced numerous artists across various genres, making him a key figure in both the alternative and mainstream music scenes.

Review Questions

• How did Robert Smith's contributions to The Cure influence the development of New Wave music?
  • Robert Smith's contributions to The Cure were instrumental in shaping the sound of New Wave music through his innovative use of synthesizers and his incorporation of pop sensibilities into a post-punk framework. His songwriting often featured emotional lyrics combined with catchy melodies, making the band's music accessible while still maintaining depth. As a result, The Cure helped pave the way for other bands in the New Wave movement by blending darker themes with danceable beats and electronic elements.
• Discuss the relationship between Robert Smith’s personal style and the visual identity of The Cure within the New Wave genre.
  • Robert Smith’s personal style has become synonymous with The Cure’s visual identity in the New Wave genre. His iconic look—characterized by heavy makeup, wild hair, and unique fashion choices—reflects the band's artistic vision and contributes to their overall aesthetic. This distinctive style not only set them apart from other bands but also resonated with fans who identified with the emotional and often dark themes present in their music. The blend of visual presentation with sound has solidified their status as pioneers within New Wave culture.
• Evaluate the impact of Robert Smith’s songwriting on both The Cure’s success and on broader musical trends during the 1980s.
  • Robert Smith's songwriting significantly impacted both The Cure’s success and broader musical trends during the 1980s by combining introspective lyrics with innovative soundscapes. His exploration of complex emotions connected deeply with audiences at a time when pop music was evolving to include more emotional resonance. This shift not only helped elevate The Cure to international fame but also influenced countless artists across genres to adopt a more personal approach in their songwriting. Smith’s ability to merge melancholy themes with catchy hooks contributed to a trend where emotional depth became a defining characteristic in mainstream music.

Related terms

The Cure:

A British band formed in 1976, The Cure is known for their eclectic sound that spans various genres, including post-punk, new wave, and gothic rock.

Gothic Rock: A genre that emerged in the late 1970s characterized by dark themes, atmospheric sounds, and theatrical performances, with The Cure being one of its leading acts.

New Wave: A genre of music that emerged in the late 1970s characterized by its embrace of pop sensibilities and the use of synthesizers, often associated with a more experimental approach to music.