Synthwave 101 – A Beginner’s Guide

Synthwave is a genre of electronic music that draws its inspiration from the 1980s. The term “synthwave” is a portmanteau of “synthesizer” and “wave”, referring to the synthesizer-based sound of the genre. Synthwave music typically features a heavy reliance on synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers, as well as retro-style sound effects.

The synthwave sound is often described as “haunting”, “nostalgic”, or “futuristic”. It often evokes feelings of nostalgia for the 1980s, while also sounding like something from a science fiction movie. Synthwave has been described as a “love letter to the 80s”.

artwork made by: @retro.paint

The genre began in the early 2000s with artists like Jean Michel Jarre and Vangelis, who were heavily influenced by the sounds of the 1980s. The genre gained popularity in the 2010s with the rise of electronic dance music (EDM). Many synthwave artists have been influenced by EDM, resulting in a sound that is both nostalgic and modern.

Today, synthwave is enjoying a resurgence in popularity thanks to its retro appeal and its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia. If you’re new to synthwave, here’s a beginner’s guide to help you get started.


The 1980s were a time of great change and innovation in the world of music. One of the most important and influential genres to emerge from this era was synthwave. Synthwave is a genre that is based around the use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments to create music. It often has a retro feel to it, and often pays homage to the music of the 1980s.

 

There are many important figures in synthwave, but some of the most influential and important are listed below.

Kavinsky: Kavinsky is one of the most well-known and respected names in synthwave. His debut album, OutRun, was released in 2013 and was an instant classic. Kavinsky's music often features heavy synths and driving beats, which has helped him become one of the most popular artists in the genre.

The Midnight: The Midnight are a duo from Los Angeles who have been making synthwave since 2012. Their debut album, Endless Summer, was released in 2016 and quickly became one of the most popular albums in the genre. The Midnight's music often features dreamy synths and catchy melodies, which has helped them gain a large following worldwide.

Perturbator: Perturbator is a French musician who has been making synthwave since 2012. His music often features dark and atmospheric synths, which has earned him a large following among fans of horror movies and video games. Perturbator's 2016 album, The Uncanny Valley, is considered by many to be one of the best albums in the genre.

Carpenter Brut: Carpenter Brut is a French musician who has been making synthwave since 2015. His music often features heavy guitars and driving beats, which has helped him gain a large following among fans of metal music. Carpenter Brut's 2016 album, Trilogy: Blood Dragon / Death Race / Leather Teeth, is considered by many to be one of the best albums in the genre.

These are just some of the important figures in synthwave who have helped shape the genre into what it is today. There are many other great artists out there making incredible music, so be sure to check them out!