New Romantic Music vs. Synthpop Music
What's the Difference?
New Romantic music and Synthpop music are both genres that emerged in the 1980s and share some similarities in terms of their use of synthesizers and electronic instrumentation. However, New Romantic music is characterized by its flamboyant and theatrical style, often incorporating elements of glam rock and post-punk, while Synthpop music tends to have a more polished and commercial sound, with catchy melodies and danceable beats. Both genres were popular in the mainstream music scene during the 80s, but New Romantic music had a more avant-garde and artistic edge, while Synthpop music was more accessible and radio-friendly.
Comparison
| Attribute | New Romantic Music | Synthpop Music |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Time Period | Late 1970s to early 1980s | Late 1970s to early 1980s |
| Main Instruments | Synthesizers, drum machines, guitars | Synthesizers, drum machines |
| Fashion Style | Dramatic, flamboyant, and extravagant | Futuristic, minimalistic |
| Lyrical Themes | Romanticism, escapism, and glamour | Technology, science fiction, and dystopia |
Further Detail
Origins
New Romantic music emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a subgenre of new wave and post-punk music. It was characterized by its flamboyant fashion, androgynous style, and emphasis on visual aesthetics. Bands like Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, and Visage were at the forefront of the New Romantic movement. Synthpop, on the other hand, originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s as well, but it was more focused on electronic music and synthesizers. Artists like Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and Kraftwerk were pioneers of the synthpop sound.
Instrumentation
New Romantic music often featured a mix of traditional rock instruments like guitars and drums with synthesizers and electronic elements. The use of synthesizers in New Romantic music added a futuristic and ethereal quality to the sound. In contrast, synthpop music heavily relied on synthesizers and electronic instruments to create its signature sound. The use of drum machines, sequencers, and synthesizers was prominent in synthpop music, giving it a more electronic and danceable vibe.
Lyrics
New Romantic music often featured introspective and poetic lyrics that explored themes of love, loss, and identity. The lyrics in New Romantic songs were often dramatic and emotional, reflecting the theatrical nature of the genre. In contrast, synthpop music tended to have more upbeat and catchy lyrics that focused on themes like love, relationships, and technology. The lyrics in synthpop songs were often more straightforward and accessible, making them easier to sing along to.
Fashion
New Romantic music was closely associated with a flamboyant and extravagant fashion sense. Artists in the New Romantic movement often wore elaborate and colorful outfits, with frilly shirts, ruffled collars, and bold makeup. The fashion in New Romantic music was a key part of the overall aesthetic, reflecting the genre's emphasis on visual presentation. Synthpop music, on the other hand, had a more minimalist and futuristic fashion sense. Artists in the synthpop genre often wore sleek and modern outfits, with an emphasis on clean lines and metallic colors.
Popularity
New Romantic music enjoyed a brief but significant period of popularity in the early 1980s, with bands like Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet achieving mainstream success. The New Romantic movement had a strong influence on fashion and culture at the time, with its flamboyant style and catchy tunes capturing the imagination of a generation. Synthpop music, on the other hand, had a longer-lasting impact on the music industry. Artists like Depeche Mode and Pet Shop Boys continued to release hit songs throughout the 1980s and beyond, solidifying synthpop as a lasting and influential genre.
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