Breaking the Mold: Creating a New Genre of Music
Creating a new genre of music is a rare and significant milestone in the broader context of musical evolution. Historically, genres have been invented to describe and categorize the innovative sounds of successful musicians, rather than emerging from unknown bands. This article explores how new genres are born and the impact of successful artists in shaping musical classifications.
Why Genres Matter
Music genres are arbitrary labels created by record stores to assist shoppers in finding music. However, these labels have evolved to serve broader purposes. When an artist's unique sound gains popularity, record companies or industry insiders may retroactively apply a new genre title to their music. This not only helps in marketing but also introduces similar artists to a wider audience, often resulting in increased sales.
Legends and Labels
Elvis Presley’s entry into the music scene is a prime example of genre creation through success. Although Elvis wasn't primarily an innovator in musical performance, his ability to play and sing rhythm and blues for white audiences was groundbreaking. This led to the invention of the term "rock and roll," which was initially seen as a novel genre by 1950s standards. This term was applied to Elvis and other similar artists like Chuck Berry and Little Richard, facilitating the marketing and distribution of their music.
Artists as Innovators
Bill Monroe's creation of bluegrass is a distinct case study. He consciously invented this genre through his unique musical style. Despite being one of the few who singlehandedly created a new genre, Monroe was a successful musician first. This unique approach to genre invention sets bluegrass apart from other genres that were retroactively labeled.
Defining Genres: Rock and Bluegrass
The process of defining genres like rock and bluegrass highlights the complexities and challenges in genre classification. Rock music, for instance, is characterized by a prominent rhythm, prominent guitar, and recognizable blues influences, though it lacks a precise definition. Until the early 2000s, most popular music was considered rock unless it fit into a more specific classification like jazz, country, or electronic.
In contrast, bluegrass is a narrowly defined genre. It strictly adheres to specific instruments (no drums, banjos only in certain forms, and no synthesizers), vocal styles, and musical traditions. This strict adherence to tradition has led to confusion with related but distinct genres like old-time music.
Nirvana and Grunge
The rise of Nirvana as a grunge band is another compelling example. Nirvana became hugely successful, and their genre label was initially applied by record companies. This label then led to the recognition of other artists as grunge bands, reinforcing the genre’s popularity and aiding in sales. The process of genre creation through commercial success is a common one in the music industry.
These examples illustrate the pivotal role successful artists play in shaping and defining new music genres. Whether through conscious creation or retroactive labeling, the impact of successful musicians on genre classification is undeniable. Understanding this process not only sheds light on the evolution of music but also on the importance of successful artists in guiding musical innovation and popularity.