Pop music

When we talk about pop music, defining its framework is truly complicated. Especially when considering that “pop” comes from the term “popular.” Therefore, a very basic definition would say that any popular genre is pop, although this statement would be in contrast to the one that states that indie music is independent of the music industry. That said, we could narrow it down to something like meaning almost any type of light music. In other words, it’s a type of music that appears more frequently in the public space, intended to reach the widest possible audience, and heard on most commercial radio stations and music streaming platforms.

Is this explanation valid for grouping Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and Justin Bieber in this genre? It’s obvious that these have recently been the most famous pop stars that can be heard everywhere. However, their fans sometimes struggle to explain what sets this genre apart and when it emerged. If we want to define it a bit more, we could say that pop music is instrumental and vocal rhythmic music, often with a danceable character, simple melodic structure, and intended for commercial purposes (as if other genres aren’t).

There’s also another description that indicates that pop music in a stricter sense is a type of softer rock, aimed at a massive audience. In any case, the genre is distinguished by melody, simplicity, and the use of synthesizers and studio recording techniques on a broader scale compared to traditional rock.

History of Pop Music

It’s impossible to say exactly when pop music emerged, especially if we refer to it as popular music. However, it’s conventionally accepted that it was in the 1960s when many varieties and subgenres of rock emerged, including among them this one, which has endured the longest.

However, many people are of the opinion that true pop music developed later, between the 1970s and 1980s of the 20th century, arguing that it was during this time that all musical genres flourished, and performers had to find a sound that could provide them with the highest possible popularity and attract as many listeners as possible. It was also during this time that many new radio stations were established, MTV appeared, and music videos started to take off, which undoubtedly influenced the formation of musical and aesthetic tastes of the population. Over time, it turned out that the softer sounds of rock songs sold well and had many listeners. But not only that: many artists who are now considered icons of pop music appeared on the scene in these years, giving more strength to this theory.

As an example, in addition to those already mentioned, we find popular pop stars like Michael Jackson, ABBA, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, U2, Robbie Williams and Elton John.

Subgenres and Musical Styles of Pop Music

Pop music has developed into many subgenres and musical styles. In all musical genres, one can see the influence of pop, which has created styles such as:

• Dance pop, which combines pop melodies with fast and lively rhythms,
• Pop punk, characterized by a melody similar to punk songs, but less aggressive.
• Pop rock, where the characteristic pop melodies are combined with strong guitar and drum sounds. Pop rock music is one of the most popular pop genres today.
• Pop rap: combining spoken lyrics with sung choruses, derived from pop. Between Jennifer Lopez and Ja Rule, for example.

It’s also worth remembering that nearly all cultures have developed their own versions of pop music. The most interesting ones are:

• C-pop: Chinese pop with subgenres such as cantopop (Korean pop music) and mandopop (Mandarin pop). Li Jinhuia and Buck Clayton are considered the creators of Chinese pop.
• J-pop: Japanese pop music. However, this term often refers not only to pop songs but also to rock or soul songs created in Japan.
• K-pop: Korean pop music, very popular throughout the early 21st century, featuring prominent boy bands and girl bands.
• Latin pop: more commonly known as Portuguese, Spanish, and especially Latin American pop music. It’s often a blend of traditional elements from the region’s music (such as flamenco, reggaeton, or ranchera) with pop.

Currently, pop music is considered the most commercialized musical genre, but there’s also a corner for slightly lesser-known groups that we want to dedicate a bit more time and attention to, hoping that you’ll enjoy them too.