Alternative music is a genre which draws its inspiration from several distinct genres. It stands apart from mainstream pop and rock in that it adheres to an independent label philosophy and promotes do-it-yourself approaches.
Nirvana famously popularized grunge music, making it mainstream and making it part of our cultural consciousness. Since then, however, subgenres of grunge music have arisen and even evolved into indie rock genres.
Origins
Alternative and indie are often used interchangeably to refer to music that falls outside the mainstream, yet there are distinct distinctions between these genres. Indie music tends to originate with independent record labels with DIY (Do It Yourself) philosophies while alternative rock tends to feature guitar-driven music with heavier sounds.
Alternative music’s roots can be traced to the punk rock movement of the late 70s. Originating in underground rock clubs and becoming immensely popular with college students, punk rock was instrumental in shaping independent rock bands like R.E.M that became critical darlings and commercial successes that helped establish alternative as a major force within pop music.
Alternative rock is a subgenre of pop music characterized by distorted guitars and unconventional song structures, often dealing with social or political topics in its lyrics. Subgenres within this genre include post-punk, new wave, grunge and shoegaze.
Hip-hop emerged across major cities and small towns, while indie rock flourished primarily within suburban enclaves of America’s Gen X in places such as Athens, Ohio; Olympia, Washington; and Louisville Kentucky. Supportive college radio stations as well as mom-and-pop record stores gave musicians access to platforms.
Alternative music was initially defined as any genre that didn’t fall into traditional mainstream categories. Over time, however, this term came to encompass an increasingly specific style of guitar-driven rock with elements of punk and metal; however many artists rejected this label due to conflicts with their beliefs of artistic authenticity; consequently it has slowly lost its original definition and become synonymous with independent rock.
Styles
Alternative music can be defined by its DIY aesthetic and lyrics-first approach, which was born as an answer to rock’s commercialization during the 1970s. Since then, alternative music has grown into an expansive movement. Many independent artists release their music themselves without major record labels allowing them to maintain control of their artistic vision while connecting directly with fans through social media or streaming platforms – leading them to build large followings or niche subgenres of fans.
Nirvana’s popular song “Smells Like Teen Spirit” propelled alternative rock into mainstream popularity during the 90s, inspiring college students and mainstream radio to embrace this genre. Now part of popular music, alternative rock has encouraged many artists to pursue their musical dreams.
Through history, various styles of music have been classified as alternative. Punk, grunge and emo are among the more well-known examples; however, any genre which differs from mainstream standards could fall under this classification. “Alternative” has since evolved as artists push past convention.
Today’s definitions of alternative and indie music have become increasingly fluid over the past two decades, with artists creating music influenced by both genres to craft their unique sounds. Tame Impala is well known for their combination of psychedelic soundscapes with emotive lyrics; other notable artists include Phoebe Bridgers, King Krule and Mitski who use elements from punk jazz electronica music genres to craft distinctive and emotional sounds.
Influences
Alternative music draws inspiration from various genres, including punk, post-punk, new wave, college rock and grunge – as well as electronica and pop. This gives it its unique sound.
Indie rock is a subgenre of alternative music that derives its name from independent record labels, becoming popular during the 1990s. This style of rock is distinguished by its DIY ethos and independence from mainstream radio; loud guitars with distortion effects, lyrics laden with emotion, eclectic musical styles and eclectic guitar players are hallmarks of indie rock’s sound; its origins may lie somewhere within mainstream popular music or at independent record label releases themselves.
Genre has a unique, rebellious, and subversive vibe that has had an outsized influence on music, fashion, tattoos, piercings, lifestyle choices and lifestyle in general. Genre has become its own cultural movement that represents the views and values of younger generations.
Pop music may be immensely popular and lucrative, yet creative freedom may be restricted within its realm. Alternative music offers artists an avenue for experimentation with experimental sounds and unconventional song structures not possible within more commercial environments – creating styles which often far surpass its mainstream counterpart in terms of creativity and uniqueness.
Alternative rock is an exciting genre that continues to thrive and evolve, boasting such artists as The Killers, Pearl Jam, Arctic Monkeys, Mac DeMarco and Billie Eilish who have enjoyed great success within it. To explore what alternative music has to offer you should listen to these artists’ recordings to witness first-hand all that this genre offers.
Subgenres
Alternative music spans many subgenres, each with its own sound and style. This genre boasts an enormous and dedicated fan base, and artists within this field are known to craft pieces that stand out from mainstream music scenes. Popular subgenres of alternative rock include grunge, shoegazing and post-hardcore punk; electronic rock is another style which integrates elements of traditional instrumentation alongside synthesizers and other technological devices into its soundscape.
Alternative rock has grown so popular that it has even begun to influence mainstream music industry trends. Many bands that were once considered alternative now cater to a broader audience by toning down their style to ensure wider acceptance by audiences, although plenty of alternative bands remain true to their roots and continue writing music that is honest and authentic.
Indie rock is a subgenre of alternative music that emphasizes its independence. This music style can be recognized by its DIY attitude and the use of acoustic instruments, often drawing comparisons with folk music due to the emotive lyrics found within. Modest Mouse, Death Cab for Cutie and Bright Eyes are three notable bands renowned for creating indie rock tunes.
Alternative music has long been defined as any style that does not conform to mainstream standards; however, since Nirvana’s success in the early 90s it has come to mean rock in particular. Since then the genre has expanded further into indie, post-punk, and emo styles. At first alternative musicians were resistant to mainstream fame as it went against their rebellious DIY punk ethic and commitment to artistic authenticity; today however, many are more open than ever towards mainstream success and mainstream fame as both are important components of artist authenticity for musicians alike.
Commercialization
Alternative music was initially created as an antidote for mainstream pop and rock music’s lack of authenticity and genuine emotion, often released via independent record labels rather than major publishers, giving it a do-it-yourself aesthetic which still exists today. Furthermore, alternative often features retro guitar sounds.
Alternative rock encompasses many distinct genres, spanning from melodic jangle-pop melodies to the unnerving metallic grind of industrial music. What unites all these genres is a debt to punk music’s roots in the 1970s; punk was an alternative movement against mainstream commercialism that inspired this new form of music.
Indie music gets its name from its independent and do-it-yourself spirit, with labels retaining autonomy in decision-making processes despite striking distribution deals with major companies. This freedom enables indie bands to explore sounds and emotions outside the commercial agendas of large record labels; plus it gives fans more intimate connections.
As alternative rock became increasingly popular during the 90s and 2000s, it began to gain more mainstream appeal. Bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Smashing Pumpkins became financially successful from making alternative music; yet despite commercialization it remains synonymous with rebellion against social norms and discontent with current conditions.
As the music industry develops, it’s essential to keep in mind that alternative and indie are two distinct genres of rock that possess their own set of unique characteristics that set them apart. You must decide for yourself which genre best meets your musical tastes!