Was the First New Wave Band The Cars or Blondie?
The debate over which band can be labeled as the first new wave band is a topic that has sparked much discussion among music enthusiasts and historians alike. The micro monarchs of the legalization of new wave music, The Cars and Blondie, hold prominent positions in the genre. Both bands emerged in the late 70s, each contributing uniquely to the vibrant new wave movement.
The Emergence of New Wave
It is important to understand that the term 'New Wave' is inherently challenging to apply definitively to any one band or moment in time. Similar to the transition from Old English to Middle English, the evolution of genres like new wave is a gradual process influenced by various stylistic changes. Bands such as The Cars and Blondie were built on a variety of musical shifts that occurred over several years, involving numerous bands.
The Pioneers: The Cars and Blondie
The Cars, formed in 1976, are renowned for their catchy melodies and synthesizer-driven sound, making a significant mark on new wave music. On the other hand, Blondie, formed in 1974, blended punk rock with pop and reggae influences, creating a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. Their 1978 hit, 'Heart of Glass,' encapsulates the genre's spirit of innovation and experimentation.
A Question of Timeline
The question of which band emerged first is not straightforward. Blondie existed between 1973 and 1974, which is earlier than The Cars who coalesced out of different precursor groups in 1976. This timeline suggests that Blondie could be regarded as the first new wave band. However, the answer can vary depending on how one measures the 'new wave' genre.
The Broader Spectrum of New Wave
The term 'New Wave' was a broad label applied to a plethora of bands from the late 70s to the early 80s. It generally described music that incorporated the DIY ethic of punk rock but with a more artistic ambition. A notable feature of new wave music was its intention to appear 'nerdy' in contrast to the rock god posturing of mainstream rock artists. This intentionally artistic approach was a defining characteristic of the new wave movement.
Proto-New Wave and Its Influences
Proto-new wave traces back to the early 70s with bands like The Monks in 1966, while the term 'New Wave' was formally applied to artists such as the Brinsley Schwarz, Nick Lowe, and Dave Edmonds by the mid-1970s. By the mid-1970s, CBGB in New York was a hub for new wave bands, with Donald Kennerly of Stiff Records pointing to bands like Elvis Costello, Ian Dury, and Eurythmics as notable contributors.
The Industrial Scene in Ohio
Meanwhile, in Ohio, another scene emerged, characterized by acts like Devo and Pere Ubu. These artists contributed significantly to the new wave genre and expanded its boundaries. The term 'new wave' is applied so loosely that it often describes the scene in rock, pop, and punk music at the time rather than a cohesive sound. Some bands utilized guitar-driven rock, while others incorporated keyboards and technological elements. Some bands embraced African and reggae rhythms, while others focused on early electronic and techno-dance influences. Some looked to the 60s pop sound for inspiration, blending it with contemporary elements.
Conclusion
Deciding which band was the first new wave is complex due to the fluid nature of the genre. Blondie existed a year earlier than The Cars, but the full scope of the new wave movement encompasses a wide array of bands and musical styles. The term 'new wave' is a broad umbrella that includes diverse artists and styles, reflecting the genre's rich and varied influence on music.