Electronic music often gives the impression that enthusiasts only listen to it. However, its history shows long-term integration, and many of us frequently listen to electronic-adjacent music without realizing it. Let's take a journey through the years and explore its fascinating development.

Early Experiments and Pioneering Works

In the early days, composers like Olivier Messiaen, Halim El-Dabh, and Rune Lindblad were conducting experiments that may not have been immediately recognizable as music. For example, Messiaen's works pushed the boundaries of sound in ways that were ahead of their time. These early efforts laid the foundation for what was to come.Even in 1929, the seeds of electronic music were being sown. As time passed, more and more artists began to explore this new sonic territory. Delia Derbyshire's work on the Doctor Who theme song in 1963 was a significant milestone. Her pioneering efforts have often been featured here on Open Culture, showing the early influence of electronic music in popular culture.In 1969, Gershon Kingsley's "Popcorn" emerged as one of those songs with a melody that we all know, even if we couldn't name it. This shows how electronic elements were starting to seep into mainstream music.

The Emergence of Key Artists in the 1970s

In the mid-1970s, names like Kraftwerk with "Autobahn" in 1974, Tangerine Dream with "Rubycon" in 1975, and Jean-Michel Jarre with "Oxygene" in 1976 began to emerge. These artists played a crucial role in the development of modern electronic music.However, Donna Summer's hit "I Feel Love" in 1977 was perhaps the defining moment for the passage of electronic music into the mainstream. Co-produced by Giorgio Moroder, this song had a huge impact and set the stage for what was to come. Moroder's own instrumental composition "Chase" in 1978 won him an Academy Award and further solidified electronic music's place in popular culture.

The Influence of Movies in the 1980s

The 1980s saw a significant boost in the popularity of electronic music thanks to movies. Harold Faltermeyer's "Axel F" became a household name, and Haddayway's "What Is Love" was also widely recognized. These songs showed how electronic technology and pop music could be fused together to create a powerful impact.As the video continues to assemble its history, electronic music found its way back to the dance floor in the 1990s and remained there through the 2010s. Artists like Marshmello, Armin van Buuren, Shapov, Major Lazer, and DJ Snake became household names during this time.

The Continued Impact in the 21st Century

Even in recent years, electronic music has continued to have a significant impact. Songs like Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You" show how electronic-influenced music has permeated mainstream culture. It's hard to escape the influence of electronic music in today's music landscape.Electronic music has come a long way since its early experiments. It has integrated into various aspects of our lives and continues to evolve and shape the music industry.