We’ve all heard the term “pop music,” but what does it actually mean? What are the requirements if Taylor Swift, Bob Dylan, Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson, Lana Del Rey, James Maslow, and Rihanna are all considered pop? Is pop a genre?
Discover the answers to these and other questions as we explore the world of pop music.
Let’s start from the basics.
What is pop music?
Pop music, in its most basic form, is music that sells. And, while people’s tastes vary from generation to generation, there are some key similarities among the songs that reach the top of the charts and are subsequently classified as pop songs.
Pop songs typically combine some form of rock, R&B, hip hop, funk and/or dance with pop lyrics sung in a catchy tune. Younger generations generally enjoy pop music and are often criticized for being shallow and unoriginal. However, pop music has been responsible for some of the most iconic songs and artists in history.
Pop music is easy to listen to, catchy, and instantly pleasant. It usually follows the conventional verse-chorus pattern that we’re all familiar with, has memorable lyrics that are continually repeated, and lasts between 3 and 4 minutes. And it almost always has an energetic rhythm that encourages the listener to dance.
Is Pop a Genre?
Pop, indeed, is a genre. Although it may appear that no artist truly belongs under the pop umbrella, many well-known artists create pop music that incorporates elements of the genres from which they derive. And when artists reach the pinnacle of their career, they usually transition to pop music.
What are the characteristics of pop music?
Pop music is usually high-energy, upbeat, cheerful, simple structure and melody. Lyrics often centre around teenage angst, falling in love or partying. The instrumentation is typically pop-oriented, using synthesizers and electric guitars to create a song.
Pop songs are usually structured around a verse-chorus pop structure, focusing on catchy pop hooks. Pop songs also use syncopation to create an upbeat, danceable rhythm. The verses typically have a softer pop sound, while the choruses become more energetic for pop audiences.
Who are some famous international pop artists?
There have been many pop artists who have achieved mainstream success over the years. Some of the most famous pop artists include The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Britney Spears, and Taylor Swift. These are just a few examples – there are many more pop artists who have achieved success both in the past and present.
History of pop music genre:
The history of pop music is intertwined with the history of another genre: rock ‘n’ roll. The terms pop music and rock music became common in the 1960s. Pop music was defined as bright, effervescent, and commercial music enjoyed by people of all ages, whereas rock music was described as genuine rock ‘n’ roll music.
As soon as the 1970s arrived, rock ‘n’ roll music was all but extinct in its original form, and the genre’s two evolutions – pop and rock music – took over.
History of pop music in India:
The pop music genre in India originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s. At that time, it was dominated by Hindi film music. Indian pop music is often a mix of traditional music styles with modern beats. The lyrics are usually in Hindi or English, but some songs are also sung in regional languages like Bengali, Tamil, and Telugu.
The early pioneers of Indian pop music were artists like Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi, Asha Bhosle. They brought about a revolution in the industry with their unique style of singing and compositions.
In the 1990s, a new crop of pop stars emerged who redefined the sound and look of Indian pop. Names like Alisha Chinai, Lucky Ali, Baba Sehgal, and Shweta Shetty became popular amongst Indian youth.
The 1990s also saw the rise of Indi pop artists like the band Silk Route and singers like Kavita Krishnamurthy, who sang for Bollywood films and released their albums independently.
Several pop groups perform Hindi songs composed by independent music composers these days. Some prominent names in this category include Euphoria, Raghu Dixit, Agnee, Bandish Project, Indian Ocean, and Colonial Cousins.
The pop music culture in Bengal:
Bengal is known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. From classical to folk to modern, the state has something for everyone. The pop music genre is also quite popular in the state. Songs by famous Bengali artists like Kumar Sanu, Alka Yagnik, Kishore Kumar, and Lata Mangeshkar are loved by listeners in Bengal.
Bengali music is evolving with the times, but some songs like “Mile Sur Mera Tumhara” and “Cholo Hariye Gechhe Jay Na,” both by Kumar Sanu, have been a constant source of inspiration for singers and songwriters alike.
Famous Bengali music composer Anupam Roy believes that the idea behind his compositions lies in unity. His recent hit number from the film ‘Ranjana Ami Ar Ashbona’ is regularly played on Bengal radio channels. The two most notable Bengali pop singers are Nachiketa Chakraborty and Babul Supriyo.
Pop artists usually perform live to entertain their fans on a large scale. However, many of these singers have also been performing on the small screen as playback singers. Famous Bengali artist Alka Yagnik has been dedicated to her career for quite some time now. She has gone from singing solo songs to singing duets with Indian male artists like Sonu Nigam and Kumar Sanu.
Popular Bengali singer Kishore Kumar is known for his talent all over the country. He was an actor, director, producer, composer and lyricist – he did it all! In Hindi cinema, the legendary singer was considered one of India’s finest playback singers.
He was known as the “king of pop” and is revered across India. In Bengal, he continues to be a youth idol.
Why is Pop music popular in Bengal?
Pop music is popular in Bengal because it is upbeat and easy to listen to. The lyrics are simple, and the songs are often catchy. Pop music is perfect for listening to while driving or working out. It also has a universal appeal and is loved by people worldwide.
Bengali pop music is unique in its own way, and it has a sound that is distinctly Bengali. The beats are slower, and the melodies are more melodic than you would find in Hindi pop songs. This makes it a favorite amongst Bengal listeners.
In addition, many of the popular Bengali pop singers are also actors. So, not only do they sing great songs, but they also entertain their fans with their acting skills. This is another reason why pop music is so prevalent in Bengal.
Now, we will move to the next segment of the article & discuss- Live concerts.
Music Concert:
A concert is a live music performance in front of an audience. The performance may be by a single musician, sometimes called a recital, or by a musical ensemble, such as an orchestra, choir, or band.
Love for the live music concerts in Bengal:
Live music concerts have been around for centuries, with roots in ancient Greece and Rome. These days, they remain a popular form of entertainment, with people flocking to see their favorite artists or bands perform live.
Bengal has a rich history of live music concerts, with some of the most famous taking place in Kolkata. Some of the earliest concerts in the state were held in the late 1800s, with several prominent singers and musicians taking to the stage.
Live music concerts have become increasingly popular in more recent times, with people of all ages flocking to see their favorite artists or bands perform live. Some of the most famous live music concerts in Bengal take place at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
Music concerts and festivals are a favorite among Bengal residents. The number of performing artists and visitors to these shows increases with each passing year.
The events are organized in different parts of the state by various agencies. Some are also held under government sponsorship. The music concerts attract huge crowds in all seasons, be it summer or winter.
Different varieties of folk forms are performed in these shows with great appreciation from the audience. Kolkata has many theatres where the liveliest singers in Bengali draw large spectators to their stage shows in different seasons. These musical soirees are usually held during Durga Puja celebrations and other festive occasions like New Year Eve.
Songs related to various aspects of life are sung on stage, which is highly entertaining for the audiences. The event becomes more enjoyable when artists sing their own compositions instead of just singing old already well-known amongst people.
The lyrics of folk songs, an integral part of Bengali culture, are well appreciated by all sections of society. On special occasions like Durga Puja or New Year Eve, musical shows can be heard even in remote areas where singing and dancing accompany traditional snacks being distributed among the audiences at regular intervals. This is a treat for art lovers as they never get tired of repeating their visits to this show again and again.
In addition to the live stage performances, huge gatherings have been organized in different parts of Bengal. People have sung highly emotional poems, including “Sonar Tori”, written by Tagore on different subjects underlining social issues prevailing in our society. These events give artists from far-off places a chance to meet each other and share their experiences.
The love for music is not just restricted to Bengali culture, but people belonging to other cultures also enjoy the musical programs being organized in the state. One such event was a Baul festival held in Bolpur, Birbhum district, where artists from all over India participated.
RR Café Serampore launching its own live music performance:
RR Café Serampore is coming up with live music performance at the venue very soon. It will allow you to enjoy your favorite food along with the music.
RR Café is mixing the concept of live concerts with Pop music and bringing the best of both worlds. RR Cafe has a lot to serve on a platter- relaxation, positivity, and unwinding, among many other ‘recipes.’ You will be able to listen to your favorite Pop music at RR Café while dining with your loved ones.
Top 20 popular songs that will be formed:
- Rabta
- Dua
- Abhi mujh mei kahi
- Pehla nasha
- Gajab ka hai din
- Lag ja gale
- Raataan lambitan
- Hay apna dil
- Jab koi baat
- Jina yaha marna yaha
- Ye shaam mastani
- Kyase hau
- Who lamhe who baatein
- Ek pyaar ka nagma hai
- Ek ajnabi
- Dil ka dariya
- Bhomor
- Khamoshiya
- Hoyto tomari jonne
- Kal ho na ho
So do not forget to visit RR Café with your near and dear ones to make your evening delightful.