In the vibrant musical landscape of the 2010s, one genre that flourished was bedroom pop, a largely DIY effort that blossomed thanks to advancements in technology and the internet. While bedroom pop has existed in various forms since the late 1990s, its golden era is widely considered to be 2017, a year that birthed numerous creations that continue to resonate today.
The term “bedroom pop” refers to an array of genres, all united by the fact that they are often recorded in makeshift home studios, marking a significant shift from the traditional recording studio environment. In 2017, this democratization of music creation culminated in a wave of unique, genre-blending sounds that captivated listeners worldwide.
The Rise of Emo Pop and Sad Boy Aesthetic
One of the most prominent trends in 2017 bedroom pop was the emergence of emo pop, a subgenre that combined elements of emo and pop music. Led by artists like boy pablo and Joji, this style often showcased raw, emotional lyrics set to catchy, easy-listening melodies.
This trend was characteristic of the broader “sad boy” aesthetic that permeated the genre. This aesthetic embraced melancholy, introspection, and vulnerability, providing a comforting space for listeners to explore and process their own emotions. Artists like Clairo and Rex Orange County found massive success with this emotionally charged approach.
The Influence of Hip-Hop and R&B
Another distinctive feature of 2017 bedroom pop was its heavy influence from hip-hop and R&B. Many artists, like Cuco and Men I Trust, seamlessly incorporated elements of these genres into their bedroom pop tracks, creating a unique fusion sound.
This musical experimentation was facilitated by accessibility to digital audio workstations (DAWs) and online resources. Bedroom producers could now sample beats, manipulate sounds, and twist traditional structures to their liking, leading to a plethora of innovative tracks.
The Role of the Internet in Bedroom Pop’s Success
The internet played a pivotal role in the success of bedroom pop in 2017. Platforms like SoundCloud, Spotify, and YouTube provided avenues for underground artists to reach global audiences. Many bedroom pop stars gained their initial traction by posting demos online, bypassing traditional record label gatekeepers.
Collaboration too, was simplified by the internet. Artists could connect, share ideas, and work together remotely, regardless of geographical locations. This fostered a strong sense of community among bedroom pop artists, who often referenced and nodded to each other’s work in their own creations.
The Aesthetics of Bedroom Pop in 2017
2017 bedroom pop wasn’t just defined by its sound; it was also characterized by a distinctive visual aesthetic. Many bedroom pop artists shunned high gloss production in favor of lo-fi, DIY visuals that mirrored their studio environments.
Grainy, saturated colors, retro-inspired imagery, and often self-produced music videos were the norm. This aesthetic was not only cost-effective but also served as a continuation of the authentic, raw image cultivated by the artists.
Lo-Fi Beats and Chill Vibes
Lo-fi hip-hop beats were a staple of bedroom pop in 2017. This subgenre, popularized by artists like MACHINE HYPNOZIS andretirer, featured simple, repetitive melodies, often accompanied by soft percussion and sampled vocal snippets. These tracks, often tagged as ‘lofi beats to study/chill to,’ were designed to provide a soothing, laid-back atmosphere.
This relaxed, chill vibe extended to the overall bedroom pop aesthetic. Artists often wrote about everyday experiences, personal insecurities, and mundane life moments, tapping into a universal sense of nostalgia and longing that resonated deeply with their listeners.
The Impact of Bedroom Pop on Mainstream Music
The impact of bedroom pop on mainstream music in 2017 was profound. Many bedroom pop artists transitioned to bigger stages, influencing the broader musical landscape. Artists like Lorde and Tove Lo, who started in more modest settings, continued to gain prominence, further popularizing bedroom pop’s aesthetic and sound.
Moreover, the DIY ethos of bedroom pop encouraged experimentation and authenticity. It paved the way for other underground genres to gain traction, challenging traditional norms and reshaping what was considered ‘mainstream.’
As we look ahead, the influence of 2017 bedroom pop continues to be felt. Its spirit of rebellion, its emphasis on authenticity, and its embrace of musical experimentation have become integral to today’s music scene. So, whether you’re a seasoned music connoisseur or a casual listener, there’s no doubt that the bedroom pop bedroom pop of 2017 left an indelible mark on the world of music.
