21st Century Electronic Music Composers You Need to Know
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In the 21st century, we’ve seen a shift in the sound of popular music. Electronic music has become more prevalent, and with that, a new generation of composers has emerged. Here are 21st century electronic music composers you need to know.
Introduction
There’s no doubt that electronic music has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the early 20th century. Today, the genre is more popular than ever, with artists like Calvin Harris and Avicii topping the charts and selling out stadiums around the world.
But who are the electronic music composers of today who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible? In this article, we’ll take a look at 21st century electronic music composers you need to know, from established giants like Hans Zimmer to up-and-coming stars like Mica Levi.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
A brief history of electronic music
Humans have always been fascinated by the idea of creating music with machines. In the early days of electronic music, composers experimented with using various devices to create sounds and rhythms. The Theremin, for example, was one of the first electronic instruments invented in the 1920s. It was followed by the Synthesizer in the 1930s, which allowed composers to create more complex sounds.
In the 1950s, composers began experimenting with ways to create entire pieces of music using electronic devices. This led to the development of various genres of electronic music, such as musique concrète and tape music. In the 1960s and 1970s, more sophisticated electronic instruments were developed, such as the Moog synthesizer. This allowed composers to create even more complex sounds and rhythms.
Today, there are many different types of electronic music, ranging from dance music to experimental soundscapes. And 21st century composers are using electronics in new and innovative ways to create their art. Here are just a few of the leading figures in 21st century electronic music:
The pioneers of electronic music
In the early 20th century, avant-garde composers pushed the boundaries of what was considered music. They experimented with new ways of creating sound, ultimately giving birth to electronic music.
Today, electronic music is more popular than ever. Thanks to the invention of new technologies, composers have an infinite palette of sounds to work with. As a result, 21st century electronic music is incredibly diverse, ranging from ambient and experimental to danceable and pop-influenced.
Here are some of the 21st century’s most innovative and influential electronic music composers:
1. Aphex Twin
Richard D. James, better known as Aphex Twin, is one of the most prolific and respected figures in electronic music. Since the early 1990s, he has released a string of influential albums that have pushed the boundaries of what is possible with sound. His work often incorporates elements of techno, acid house, and ambient music, creating a unique and unforgettable listening experience.
2. Brian Eno
Brian Eno is a true pioneer of electronic music. He was one of the first musicians to experiment with early synthesizers in the 1970s, and his work has influenced generations of artists since then. In recent years, he has continued to push musical boundaries with his “ambient” compositions, which are designed to be experienced as background noise rather than as traditional songs.
3. Burial
Burial is a mysterious figure in the world of electronic music. shrouded in anonymity, he has released a small but exceptional body of work that blends elements of dubstep, garage, and grime into something entirely new and unexpected. His dark and atmospheric productions are some of the most innovative in contemporary music.
4. Daniel Lopatin aka Oneohtrix Point Never
Oneohtrix Point Never is the solo project of American composer Daniel Lopatin. His work explores the intersections between experimental noise music and pop culture, resulting in a unique and constantly evolving soundscape. Lopatin is also one half of the critically acclaimed duo Infinity Gauntlet), which further expands on his interest in blurring genre boundaries. 5 . Carpenter Brut
Carpenter Brut is a French musician who takes his cues from 1980s action movies soundtrack composers such as John Carpenter (hence his name) and Jerry Goldsmith . His highly energetic tracks are loaded with vintage synthesizers sounds , giving them a truly retro feel . In recent years , Carpenter Brut has become one of the most popular artists in the so-called “synthwave” genre .
The contemporary masters of electronic music
In the 21st century, electronic music has been dominating the airwaves and the charts. From Avicii to Zedd, here are some of the most popular and influential electronic music producers and DJs today.
Avicii
Swedish DJ and producer Avicii (born Tim Bergling) was one of the most successful musicians of his generation. His hits include “Wake Me Up,” “Hey Brother,” and “Levels.” He died in 2018 at the age of 28.
Calvin Harris
Scottish DJ Calvin Harris is one of the richest DJs in the world, reportedly earning $46 million in 2014. He has collaborated with Rihanna, Ellie Goulding, and Florence Welch. His hits include “We Found Love” and “Feel So Close.”
David Guetta
French DJ David Guetta is a global superstar whose hits include “Titanium,” “Where Them Girls At,” and “Without You.” He has sold over nine million albums and 30 million singles worldwide.
Diplo
American DJ Diplo (born Thomas Wesley Pentz) is a member of the electronic duo Major Lazer. He has also produced for Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and Usher. His hits include “Lean On” and “Cold Water.”
Marshmello
American DJ Marshmello (real name Christopher Comstock) is best known for his hit single “Alone.” He wears a marshmallow-shaped helmet when he performs to conceal his identity.
Skrillex
American DJ Skrillex (born Sonny John Moore) is a five-time Grammy Award winner whose hits include “Bangarang” and “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites.” He has collaborated with Justin Bieber, Ellie Goulding, and Marsha Ambrosius.
The future of electronic music
Ask any music lover what their favorite genre is and you’re bound to get a wide variety of answers. But if there’s one genre that has truly taken over the 21st century, it’s electronic music.
Logic, Ableton, and other music production software have made it possible for anyone with a computer to create professional-sounding tracks. This has led to a surge in the popularity of electronic music, with more and more people getting into the genre every day.
If you’re new to electronic music, or just looking for some new composers to check out, here are 21st century electronic music composers you need to know.
