Robert Smith of The Cure: A Journey Through Musical Influences
Robert Smith, the enigmatic frontman of the iconic post-punk band The Cure, has always been a musician who draws inspiration from a diverse range of musical genres. His solo career and The Cure's influential discography showcase a rich tapestry of influences that have shaped Smith's unique sound. This article explores the bands that most influenced Robert Smith, including early Pink Floyd, early sixties psychedelic bands, and post-punk contemporaries.
Early Influences: Pink Floyd and Psychedelic Bands
One cannot discuss Robert Smith's musical influences without mentioning his deep admiration for Pink Floyd. Early in his career, Pink Floyd's innovative and experimental sound captured Smith's attention. His favorite album, Ummagumma, is not only a favorite among fans but also a symbol of Pink Floyd's evolution from hard rock to a more conceptual and psychedelic style. This album's avant-garde nature has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Smith's musical journey and The Cure's progressive sound.
Psychedelic Bands: An Early Sound
Smith's affinity for sixties psychedelic bands is a reflection of his appreciation for the creative freedom and immersive soundscapes these groups produced. Bands like Jimi Hendrix, with his pioneering electric guitar style, and other psychedelic acts like The Doors and Jefferson Airplane, have all contributed to Smith's aesthetic. The raw emotion and improvisational nature of these bands' work resonated with Smith, influencing the atmospheric and introspective qualities in The Cure's music.
Post-Punk: Joy Division, Gang of Four, and Siouxsie and the Banshees
The post-punk era saw the emergence of many influential bands that Robert Smith has cited as significant influences. Joy Division, with their moody, atmospheric sound and frontman Ian Curtis's profound lyrics, were instrumental in shaping Smith's approach to songwriting and the emotional depth in his music. Similarly, Gang of Four's politically charged and confrontational songs resonated with Smith's confrontational and intellectual discourse.
Siouxsie and the Banshees, under which Smith was a member before The Cure, further cemented his understanding of the post-punk genre. The band's blend of dark, gothic imagery and industrial rock elements influenced Smith's own style, adding a layer of intensity and aggression to his music. This period was particularly formative, as it allowed Smith to experiment with different musical styles and develop his unique voice.
Later Influences: New Order and Soul
As The Cure's sound evolved, so did Robert Smith's influences. New Order's innovative approach to electronic music and their ability to blend it with rock elements left a significant impression on Smith. Their transition from Joy Division to a more dynamic and danceable sound provided a blueprint for The Cure's later works, particularly in their fusion of post-punk and electronic sounds.
Additionally, Smith's fascination with soul music added another dimension to The Cure's sound. The infusion of soulful rhythms and vocals in songs like "Sunday Girl" and "Fascination" demonstrates Smith's versatility as a musician and his willingness to draw from a wide range of musical traditions to create something unique.
Conclusion
Robert Smith's rich and varied musical background has undoubtedly contributed to The Cure's enduring legacy. From the deep-seated influences of Pink Floyd and psychedelic bands to the post-punk contemporaries like Joy Division and Gang of Four, and the later incorporations of New Order and soul elements, Smith's journey through musical influences has been both profound and influential. Each of these bands and artists has left an imprint on Smith's creative process, allowing him to craft a distinctive and emotionally resonant sound that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.