Most Popular 80s Alternative Bands The Evolution of Indie Music

Alternative music in the 80s was a result of musicians rebelling against mainstream pop culture. This genre resonated with a generation that was disillusioned by the status quo and looking for something new. The alternative movement created its own subculture, with fashion, art, and music that was uniquely different.

The 80s was an era of experimentation and innovation, where bands like The Smiths, The Cure, and R.E.M., to name a few, emerged as icons representing the non-conformist spirit of the time. In this article, we will explore the most popular 80s alternative bands, their impact on the industry, and their relevance today.

The Pioneers of 80s Alternative Music

The 80s saw the emergence of several alternative bands that paved the way for the genre’s explosion in popularity in the following decades. Some of these pioneers include:

The Smiths

The Smiths, led by Morrissey and Johnny Marr, are considered one of the most influential alternative bands of all time. Their music addressed themes of loneliness, alienation, and the struggles of youth, which resonated with many during the 80s. Their hits, such as “This Charming Man” and “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now,” defined an era and inspired countless musicians who followed.

The Cure

The Cure’s unique sound combined elements of post-punk, gothic rock, and new wave. Robert Smith’s melancholic lyrics and distinctive vocals set the band apart from others in the genre. Hits like “Just Like Heaven” and “Friday I’m in Love” remain popular today and have cemented The Cure’s place in alternative music history.

R.E.M.

R.E.M.’s jangly guitar riffs and Michael Stipe’s poetic lyrics made them one of the most important bands of the 80s alternative scene. Their album “Document” was a turning point for the band, and hits like “The One I Love” and “It’s the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” are still beloved by fans around the world.

The Evolution of 80s Alternative Music

As the 80s progressed, so did the alternative music scene. New sub-genres emerged, and bands experimented with different sounds to create something fresh and exciting. Here are some examples:

New Wave

New Wave emerged in the late 70s but gained popularity in the early 80s as a fusion of punk rock and electronic music. Bands like Depeche Mode and Duran Duran helped popularize the genre, which was characterized by its use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments.

Post-Punk

Post-punk developed in the wake of punk rock’s decline in popularity. It featured a broader musical palette than punk, incorporating elements of art rock, funk, and reggae. Bands like Joy Division and Gang of Four were pioneers of this sub-genre.

Indie Rock

Indie rock emerged as a rejection of the commercialization of music in the 80s. Artists wanted more creative control over their work and sought out independent labels to release their music. Bands like Sonic Youth and Pixies helped establish indie rock as a legitimate sub-genre of alternative music.

The Legacy of 80s Alternative Music

The 80s alternative music scene laid the groundwork for what would come after. Many of the biggest names in modern rock owe their success to the pioneers of the 80s. Here are some of the ways the legacy of 80s alternative music can be seen today:

Emo

Emo emerged in the 90s as a fusion of punk rock and indie rock. It was characterized by its emotional lyrics and confessional tone. Bands like My Chemical Romance and Dashboard Confessional helped popularize the genre, which has continued to evolve and remain popular today.

Grunge

Grunge emerged from the underground music scene in Seattle in the late 80s and early 90s. Its heavy guitar riffs and angst-filled lyrics struck a chord with a generation of disillusioned youth. Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam became household names and helped bring alternative music into the mainstream.

Most Popular 80s Alternative Bands: Comparisons and Advices

When it comes to comparing and advising on the most popular 80s alternative bands, it’s worth noting that each band had its unique sound and style. However, some general comparisons can be made:

The Smiths vs. The Cure

Both The Smiths and The Cure were pioneers of the 80s alternative music scene and have left a lasting impact on the genre. The Smiths’ jangly guitar riffs and Morrissey’s distinctive voice set them apart, while The Cure’s melancholic sound and Robert Smith’s poetic lyrics resonated with fans who were looking for something different. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference as to which band is better, but both have left an indelible mark on the world of music.

R.E.M. vs. Pixies

R.E.M. and Pixies are two bands that helped popularize indie rock during the 80s. R.E.M.’s jangly guitar riffs and Michael Stipe’s poetic lyrics set them apart, while Pixies’ loud-soft dynamics and Black Francis’s distinctive yowl made them stand out in the scene. Both bands were highly influential and continue to inspire indie rock musicians today.

When it comes to advice for those looking to explore the most popular 80s alternative bands, the best thing to do is to listen to their music with an open mind. While some of these bands may sound dated now, their impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. By listening to them, you can gain a better understanding of how the genre evolved and appreciate the innovation of these pioneering bands.

FAQs

Q: Who were some other popular 80s alternative bands?

A: Other popular 80s alternative bands include New Order, Echo and the Bunnymen, Talking Heads, and The Jesus and Mary Chain.

Q: How did alternative music differ from mainstream pop music in the 80s?

A: Alternative music was characterized by experimentation and a rejection of mainstream culture. It often featured unconventional sounds and lyrics that addressed themes of alienation and anti-establishment sentiment.

Q: What impact did 80s alternative music have on the music industry?

A: The 80s alternative music scene paved the way for many genres that followed, including grunge, emo, and indie rock. It also helped establish the importance of independent labels and DIY culture in the music industry.

Q: Are any of these 80s alternative bands still active today?

A: While some bands, like The Smiths and R.E.M., have disbanded, others continue to perform and release music. The Cure, for example, is still active and recently released their 14th studio album.

Q: Why is 80s alternative music still relevant today?

A: 80s alternative music continues to be beloved by fans around the world because of its unique sound and the themes it addresses. The genre’s influence can be heard in many modern artists’ work, and its impact on the music industry cannot be overstated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the most popular 80s alternative bands represented a rebellion against mainstream culture and helped establish the genre as a legitimate form of music. These pioneering bands paved the way for many genres that followed and left an indelible mark on the music industry. By listening to their music, we can gain a better understanding of the evolution of alternative music and appreciate the innovation of these iconic bands.