Easy Listening Pop Music: The Best of Both Worlds
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Pop music has always been a favorite genre for many people. It’s catchy, it’s fun, and it’s easy to listen to. But what if you’re looking for something a little more than just the mainstream pop songs? Easy listening pop music is the perfect solution!
What is easy listening pop music?
Easy listening pop music is a popular music genre that is characterized by its relaxed, Mood Music-style sound. It typically features electric guitars, drums, and keyboards, and is often used as background music or “mood music” in restaurants and other public places.
The history of easy listening pop music
The term “easy listening” was first coined in the late 1940s, when Billboard magazine introduced a new category for what was then known as “light music.” The category was created to encompass a wide range of music, from orchestral arrangements of popular songs to vocalists crooning ballads. Easy listening pop music quickly became popular with listeners who wanted something that was more sophisticated than the typical pop song, but not as challenging as classical music.
In the 1950s, easy listening music enjoyed a surge in popularity, thanks in part to the rise of radio stations that specialized in playing this type of music. Albums by artists like Percy Faith and Roger Williams topped the charts, and easy listening tunes became staples on many TV shows and commercials.
Despite its popularity, easy listening pop music was often derided by critics as being too bland and formulaic. However, many of the genre’s biggest hits were actually quite nuanced and sophisticated, utilizing elements of jazz, blues, and even country music. And while easy listening tunes may not be as edgy or experimental as some other genres, they continue to be popular with listeners who appreciate their calming, relaxing vibe.
The appeal of easy listening pop music
People often associate easy listening music with elevator music or background music, but easy listening pop music actually offers the best of both worlds. It has the catchiness and appeal of pop music, but is also mellow and relaxing enough to serve as easy listening music. As a result, easy listening pop music has become one of the most popular genres of music in recent years.
There are many reasons why people enjoy easy listening pop music. For one, the melodies are usually very catchy and make for very pleasant listening. Additionally, the lyrics are often positive and uplifting, which can help to improve your mood. Lastly, easy listening pop music is usually fairly lightweight and uncomplicated, making it the perfect choice for when you want to relax and unwind.
If you’re looking for some great easy listening pop music to add to your collection, here are a few recommendations:
1. “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran
2. “Something Just Like This” by The Chainsmokers & Coldplay
3. “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee
4. “Attention” by Charlie Puth
5. “Closer” by The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey
The best easy listening pop songs
This list of easy listening pop songs brings together the best of both worlds: the catchy melodies of pop music and the smooth, relaxing sounds of easy listening. From The Beatles to Barbra Streisand, these songs are sure to please any fan of pop music.
1. “Yesterday” by The Beatles
2. “The Way We Were” by Barbra Streisand
3. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
4. “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
5. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
6. “Endless Love” by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie
7. “Careless Whisper” by George Michael
8. “A Whiter Shade of Pale” by Procol Harum
9. “The Look of Love” by Dusty Springfield
10. “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones
The future of easy listening pop music
What does the future hold for easy listening pop music?
This is a question that I get asked a lot, and it’s tough to answer. On one hand, it’s clear that the genre has seen better days. In terms of popularity, easy listening pop music peaked in the 1950s and 1960s, and has been on a steady decline ever since.
On the other hand, there is still a sizable audience for easy listening pop music, and there are still a number of talented artists keeping the genre alive. So while it’s hard to say exactly what the future holds for easy listening pop music, I do think it’s safe to say that it will continue to be around for many years to come.
