What it is about
A study conducted by two researchers at Queen Mary University of London has revealed that the melodies in pop music have become incrementally simpler since 1950. The research analyzed music that topped the US Billboard music charts from 1950 to the present day.
Why it matters
This study highlights a significant shift in the complexity of popular music melodies over the decades, demonstrating changes in cultural and musical trends primarily in North America and Europe.
Key Findings
The researchers discovered a consistent simplification in melodies, rhythms, and arrangements in pop songs from 1950 to 2022. Notable low points were observed in the years 1975, 2000, and 1996, reflecting specific genre influences and technological changes during these periods.
The 1975 music scene saw the emergence of genres like new wave, punk, disco, and stadium rock, characterized by simpler, fast-paced linear riffs and drum beats. Meanwhile, in 1996 and 2000, the rise of hip-hop with technological advancements in the studio, such as audio loops and digital recordings, contributed to the melodic simplification noted in the study.
The Bigger Picture
With the advent of digital music platforms like Spotify now making vast collections of music accessible, the transformation in popular music melodies over the years can be easily analyzed. This evolution showcases how technological progress and genre innovations impact the music industry, shaping the soundscape for future generations.
This story was first published on jpost.com.