What Music Is Pop?

This article is a collaborative effort, crafted and edited by a team of dedicated professionals.

Contributors: Andranick Tanguiane, Fred Lerdahl,

Contents

Introduction
The Definition of Pop Music
- The Etymology of the Term
- The Characteristics of Pop Music
The History of Pop Music
Conclusion

A discussion of what music is and is not considered pop.

Introduction

Pop music is a genre of popular music that originated in its modern form in the United States and United Kingdom during the mid-1950s. The terms “popular music” and “pop music” are often used interchangeably, although the former describes all music that is popular and includes many diverse styles. “Pop” and “rock” were roughly synonymous terms until the late 1960s, when they became increasingly differentiated from each other.

Generally, pop music is creatively restricted to a major key and a 4/4 time signature with a familiar structure that is easy to sing or dance to. Pop songs are usually shorter than rock songs and are often sung in a verse–chorus form, containing verses sung by the lead vocalist followed by choruses sung by backup vocalists. Because pop songs are often produced by professional songwriters and arrangers, they are usually structurally simpler than rock songs; pop songwriting teams typically consist of a composer and a lyricist, while rock bands often have one or more guitarists, bassists, drummers, and keyboardists.

The meaning of the term “pop music” can be ambiguous, as it may refer to either a particular musical genre or simply all popular music, including genres beyond pop. Within wider popular music culture, these narrower uses of the term may be contrasted with experimental or art rock.

The Definition of Pop Music

The Etymology of the Term

The Etymology of the Term
Pop music is a genre of popular music that originated in its modern form in the United States and United Kingdom during the mid-1950s. The terms “popular music” and “pop music” are often used interchangeably, although the former describes all music that is popular and includes many diverse styles. “Pop” and “rock” were roughly synonymous terms until the late 1960s, when they became increasingly differentiated from each other.

Generally, pop music is produced by recording artists who are signed to a record label. In most cases, the record label is paying for the recording and distribution of the music, while the artist receives a percentage of the sales or a fixed fee per song. Pop musicians typically perform their own material, which has been composed by professional songwriters and composers. However, some pop songs are written by amateurs or established songwriters who are not affiliated with a record label.

The Characteristics of Pop Music

While the term “pop music” is often used interchangeably with “popular music,” there is a difference between the two. Pop music is a genre of popular music that originated in its modern form in the 1950s, deriving from rock and roll. The terms “popular music” and “pop music” are often used interchangeably, although the former is a description of music which is popular (that is, widely liked or enjoyed), while the latter refers to a specific genre of popular music.

Pop music tends to be catchy and easy to remember, with a strong melody and simple harmony. It is usually performed by solo artists or groups of artists, who are backed by a band or orchestra. Pop songs are often written by professional songwriters and composers, who then sell the rights to record companies. Pop artists typically aim to appeal to as wide an audience as possible, and their records are usually released on major labels.

The popularity of pop music has led to it becoming one of the most influential genres in the world, with artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears becoming global superstars. The genre has also spawned numerous subgenres and offshoots, including dance-pop, teen pop, hip hop-influenced pop and synth-pop.

The History of Pop Music

The Early Days

In the late 1940s, the term “popular music” replaced the earlier designation of “light music”. Although popular music is today identified with rock and roll, in point of fact this type of music did not dominate the pop charts until 1955. Prior to that time, a variety of musical styles ranging from Jazz to country and western influenced the development of what we now call pop music.

The history of pop music can be traced back to its origins in the late 19th century. By the early 20th century, popular music styles such as ragtime and jazz were beginning to gain popularity with mainstream audiences. In the 1920s, a new style known as “blues” emerged, drawing influences from both gospel music and jazz. In the 1930s and 1940s,swing became one of the most popular genres of pop music, while artists such as Frank Sinatra helped to popularize a style known as “crooning”.

The 1950s saw the rise of rock and roll, a style which would come to dominate pop music for much of the next two decades. Some of the most influential artists of this era include Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry and Little Richard. In the 1960s and 1970s, rock music continued to evolve, giving birth to sub-genres such as psychedelic rock, heavy metal and punk rock. At the same time, soul and funk were becoming increasingly popular with both black and white audiences.

The 1980s saw a return to more synth-based pop styles, with groups like Duran Duran and Madonna achieving massive global success. In the 1990s and 2000s, boy bands and girl groups such as Backstreet Boys and Spice Girls became some of The era also saw a number fo solo artists achieve global stardom including Whitney Houston Mariah Carey Britney Spears Lady Gaga Justin Bieber Rihanna Katy Perry Taylor Swift Beyonce One Direction Justin Timberlake Drake Kendrick Lamar Ed Sheeran Harry Styles

The Rise of Pop Music

Pop music is eclectic, and often borrows elements from other styles such as urban, dance, rock, Latin, and country. Identifying factors include generally short to medium-length songs written in a format comprising verse–chorus–verse structure, as well as the common employment of repeated choruses, melodic tunes, hooks, and catchy rhythms. Simon Frith has defined pop music as “a body of music which is distinguishable from popular, jazz, folk musics”. Although pop music is seen as just the singles charts, it is not the sum of all chart music. Pop music artistusually structures their albums around really good singles that have a commercial chance of being a hit record

The Present Day

The present day of pop music is dynamic and ever-changing, with new subgenres and sounds constantly emerging. However, there are a few key elements that have remained constant throughout the years. Pop music is designed to be catchy and easy to listen to, with a focus on creating a pleasurable listening experience. The songs are usually relatively short, with simple melodies and lyrics that are easy to remember. Pop music often makes use of electronic instruments and synthetic sounds, as well as unconventional production techniques.

Though it has remained popular throughout the years, pop music has also faced its share of criticism. Some have accused it of being shallow or formulaic, while others argue that it is one of the most creative and innovative genres of our time. Regardless of your opinion, there is no doubt that pop music is one of the most influential genres in the world today.

Conclusion

After careful consideration, we have come to the conclusion that pop music is a genre of popular music that originated in its modern form in the United States and United Kingdom during the mid-1950s. The terms “popular music” and “pop music” are often used interchangeably, although the former describes all music that is popular and includes many diverse styles.

What Music Is Pop?

Introduction