Peter Gabriel

Definition

Peter Gabriel is an English musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the progressive rock band Genesis before embarking on a successful solo career. His innovative approach to music has not only blended various genres but also played a crucial role in the globalization of music, introducing elements from world music into mainstream rock and pop.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Peter Gabriel was one of the first artists to use music videos as a medium for storytelling and artistic expression, particularly with his groundbreaking video for 'Sledgehammer.'
2. He founded the record label Real World Records in 1989 to promote world music artists and has been instrumental in bringing diverse global sounds to wider audiences.
3. Gabriel's album 'So,' released in 1986, included hits like 'Sledgehammer' and 'Big Time,' showcasing his fusion of pop with world music influences.
4. He has been involved in various humanitarian efforts, including co-founding the Witness organization to help document human rights abuses worldwide.
5. Gabriel's innovative live performances often incorporate technology, visuals, and diverse cultural elements, reflecting his commitment to pushing musical boundaries.

Review Questions

• How did Peter Gabriel influence the integration of world music into mainstream genres?
  • Peter Gabriel significantly influenced the integration of world music into mainstream genres through his solo work and collaboration with various global artists. By incorporating diverse rhythms and instruments from different cultures into his music, he opened the door for other artists to explore and embrace these elements. His label, Real World Records, also played a key role in promoting world music artists, further bridging the gap between different musical traditions and the mainstream music industry.
• Discuss the role of music videos in Peter Gabriel's career and their impact on the music industry.
  • Music videos played a transformative role in Peter Gabriel's career, particularly with his innovative approach to visual storytelling. His video for 'Sledgehammer' became iconic for its creative use of stop-motion animation and special effects, setting a high standard for future music videos. This impact extended beyond Gabriel himself, as it showcased how visuals could enhance a song's narrative and emotional appeal, ultimately reshaping how artists promoted their work in the evolving landscape of the music industry.
• Evaluate Peter Gabriel's contributions to both the evolution of progressive rock and the globalization of music.
  • Peter Gabriel's contributions to progressive rock are evident in his complex compositions and theatrical performances during his time with Genesis. His exploration of varied musical styles set a precedent for future progressive rock artists. Simultaneously, Gabriel's commitment to world music through collaborations and his record label has played a crucial role in its globalization. He has helped integrate global sounds into popular music, making them accessible to wider audiences while advocating for cultural exchange through his art.

Related terms

World Music: A genre that encompasses various musical styles from around the globe, often incorporating traditional and folk elements into contemporary music.

Progressive Rock: A subgenre of rock music characterized by complex compositions, experimental sounds, and a focus on artistic expression, often featuring concept albums.

Music Videos: Short films or video clips that accompany a song, which became popular in the 1980s and have transformed how music is promoted and experienced.