Deathrock is a genre of music that originated in the late 1970s to early 1980s. Its name is derived from the combining of the words "death" and "rock." The pronunciation of the word Deathrock is represented with the International Phonetic Alphabet transcription as /dɛθrɑk/. The "th" sound is represented by the digraph "th," while "r" is pronounced with a retroflex symbol "/ɹ/" and "a" with an open-mid back unrounded vowel "/ɑ/". The spelling of Deathrock is straightforward and reflects the fusion of these two words' meanings.
Deathrock is a subgenre of punk rock music that emerged in the late 1970s and reached its peak in the 1980s. It is characterized by its dark and macabre lyrics, gothic imagery, and a unique blend of punk, rock, and post-punk influences. The term "deathrock" is an amalgamation of "death" and "rock," representing its dark and morbid thematic content.
Musically, deathrock is characterized by its prominent use of eerie and atmospheric guitar melodies, deep and haunting vocals, and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics often explore topics such as death, despair, angst, occultism, and the darker aspects of human existence. The melodic and gloomy sound of deathrock draws influences from gothic rock, punk, and post-punk, making it distinct with an emphasis on gloomy atmospheres and unapologetic expressions of darkness and melancholy.
Deathrock fashion and aesthetics also play a significant role in its subculture. Band members and fans often sport eccentric and gothic-inspired clothing, such as black leather jackets, fishnet stockings, heavy makeup, and dark hairstyles. The deathrock scene also embraces elements of horror, with an affinity for skulls, bats, and other macabre imagery.
Overall, deathrock as a subgenre represents a unique fusion of punk, rock, and gothic influences that holds a fascination with the sinister and the macabre. Through its distinctive blend of music, fashion, and themes, deathrock continues to captivate and appeal to a niche audience passionate about exploring the darkness within and beyond.
The word "deathrock" is a subgenre of punk rock and post-punk music that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its etymology combines two elements: "death" and "rock".
The term "death" in "deathrock" primarily refers to the dark and macabre themes often explored in the music and lyrics of the genre. It reflects a fascination with death, horror, and the occult. This theme can be traced back to earlier gothic subcultures and literature, such as Gothic novels in the 18th and 19th centuries. The punk movement of the 1970s, with its rebellious and provocative nature, embraced these themes in its music and fashion.
The second element, "rock", points to the musical roots of deathrock.