What's Pop?

Pop music is a genre of music that is loved by people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures. Pop music is often described as being catchy, upbeat, and fun. The origins of pop music can be traced back to the early 1950s when rock and roll emerged as a new genre of music. Pop music is a combination of various genres, including rock and roll, soul, funk, R&B, and disco. The term "pop" is short for popular, which means that the music is designed to appeal to a wide audience.

Pop music has evolved significantly since its early days. In the 1960s, pop music was dominated by bands such as The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Rolling Stones. These bands were known for their catchy melodies, tight harmonies, and upbeat lyrics. The 1970s saw the rise of disco music, which was characterized by its danceable beats and catchy hooks. In the 1980s, pop music was heavily influenced by electronic music, with artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince dominating the charts. The 1990s saw the rise of boy bands and girl groups, such as Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, Spice Girls, and Destiny's Child.

Pop music has produced a vast number of talented artists over the years. Some of the key figures in pop music include Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Britney Spears, and Beyoncé. These artists have all had a significant impact on pop music and have helped to shape the genre into what it is today.

Pop music has produced numerous iconic albums over the years. Some of the key albums in pop music include The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," Michael Jackson's "Thriller," Madonna's "Like a Virgin," Prince's "Purple Rain," Whitney Houston's "The Bodyguard," and Mariah Carey's "Daydream." These albums have all had a significant impact on pop music and have helped to shape the genre into what it is today. Pop music is a vast genre that encompasses a wide range of styles and sub-genres. These sub-genres are often characterized by different musical elements, production techniques, and cultural influences. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular sub-genres of pop music.

Bubblegum pop 

Bubblegum pop is a sub-genre of pop music that is characterized by its catchy, upbeat, and simple melodies. It is often associated with teen-oriented themes and is intended to appeal to a younger audience. Some of the key figures in bubblegum pop include The Archies, The Monkees, and The Jackson 5.

Dance-Pop

Dance-pop is a sub-genre of pop music that is characterized by its danceable beats, upbeat tempo, and electronic production elements. It is often played in nightclubs and at parties, and is intended to get people moving and dancing. Some of the key figures in dance-pop include Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry.

Electropop

Electropop is a sub-genre of pop music that combines electronic music with pop songwriting. It is characterized by its use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments. Some of the key figures in electropop include Pet Shop Boys, Depeche Mode, and Robyn.

Indie Pop

Indie pop is a sub-genre of pop music that is characterized by its DIY production aesthetic, jangly guitars, and introspective lyrics. It is often associated with independent record labels and is intended to appeal to a more alternative-minded audience. Some of the key figures in indie pop include Belle & Sebastian, The Postal Service, and Vampire Weekend.

Synthpop

Synthpop is a sub-genre of pop music that is characterized by its use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments. It is often associated with the 1980s and is intended to evoke a futuristic or retro-futuristic aesthetic. Some of the key figures in synthpop include New Order, Depeche Mode, and Yazoo.

Teen Pop

Teen pop is a sub-genre of pop music that is specifically targeted towards a teenage audience. It is often characterized by its upbeat, catchy melodies, and lyrics that deal with teenage life and relationships. Some of the key figures in teen pop include Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and NSYNC.

Power Pop

Power pop is a sub-genre of pop music that is characterized by its energetic, guitar-driven sound. It is often associated with the 1970s and is intended to evoke a sense of nostalgia for that era. Some of the key figures in power pop include Big Star, Cheap Trick, and The Raspberries.

Pop music has continued to evolve in the 21st century. The genre has become more diverse, with artists blending various genres to create a unique sound. Some of the key figures in pop music in the 21st century include Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Ed Sheeran, and Billie Eilish. These artists have all had a significant impact on pop music and have helped to shape the genre into what it is today.