If there is one genre of music that can be aptly described as an amalgamation of styles, it has to be rock music. The style has borrowed something from pretty much every style there is to be found out there – country music, blues, etc. Yet it is a unique style that can stand on its own and claim a niche among music lovers.
History
The earliest signs of rock were seen in the 1940s. It was not just a way of singing that was coming to birth. Rather, the signs were of a new lifestyle and way of doing things. Then, the term ‘rock and roll’ came into existence within the US.
The genre, however, became distinct during the 50s. It is at that time that the earliest known musicians and bands came to the fore. The new style was characterized by an emphatic use of the electric guitar. There was also a bass and a drum set, which essentially meant a band was necessary to make rock music tick.
Growth and Popularity
The growth of the genre was quite remarkable. Within the first decade of its conception, the style was already receiving wide acclaim beyond the American borders. It was especially well received in Europe where the Beatles popped up to become one of the greatest rock bands ever.
As the genre grew, it gave birth to numerous other su
b-genres and is today arguably the type of music with most varieties.
- Roots Rock
This marked the start of the 70s rock era. The brand was still in its formative stages and was yet to completely stand out on its own. It was still carrying heavy aspects of folk music. It is during this era that Glam Rock and Country Rock became popular.
- Punk Rock
- Heavy Metal
- Christian Rock
Modern Rock
As the genre grew, there emerged numerous artists each with an effort of trying to appear unique. The number of sub-genres has also kept growing. Something else that has greatly contributed to the growth of modern rock is the incorporation of modern technology into the creation of instruments.
Modern guitars are now more responsive as well as drums which can now produce a greater variety of sound tones. With these developments, it has become increasingly possible for rock artists to perform solo.
Famous Rock Stars
The list of people who have made a name in the various rock subgenres is long and wide. From popular bands of the early days like the Beatles to modern solo artists like Pink, there is no shortage of names wherever you go. The recent years have seen a rise in the number of female rock musicians in an area that was male dominated for a long time.