Pronunciation: [sˈɪnθpɒp] (IPA) 
The term "synthpop" refers to a genre of electronic pop music that emerged in the late 1970s and became popular in the 1980s. The word combines the words "synthesizer" and "pop" to describe the use of synthesizers in creating catchy, upbeat pop songs. The IPA phonetic transcription of "synthpop" is /sɪnθpɒp/. The "th" sound in "synth" is pronounced as in "thin," while the "p" in "pop" is pronounced as a voiceless bilabial stop.
Synthpop, short for synthesizer pop, is a genre of popular music that emerged in the late 1970s and reached its peak in the 1980s. It combines elements of electronic music, particularly the use of synthesizers, with catchy melodies and pop song structures. Synthpop often features programmed drums and predominantly electronic instrumentation, which are used to create a glossy and polished sound.
This genre embodies a fusion of electronic and pop elements, focusing on melodic hooks and danceable rhythms. The use of synthesizers and electronic keyboards is central to synthpop, allowing for the manipulation of sounds and the creation of unique atmospheric textures. The synthesizers not only provide the foundation of the music but also play a key role in defining the genre's distinct futuristic and often nostalgic sound.
Lyrically, synthpop covers a wide range of topics, often delving into themes of love, relationships, and personal introspection. It can be both introspective and emotional, or more lighthearted and upbeat, depending on the artist and the specific track. Notable synthpop bands and artists include Kraftwerk, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, Yazoo, and New Order.
Overall, synthpop is characterized by its use of electronic instrumentation, catchy melodies, and a balance between pop sensibilities and avant-garde electronic experimentation. It has had a significant influence on popular music, shaping the sound of subsequent decades and inspiring countless musicians and artists across different genres.
The word "synthpop" is a combination of two terms: "synth" and "pop".
The term "synth" is a shortened form of "synthesizer", which refers to an electronic musical instrument that generates sounds through the manipulation of electrical signals. The synthesizer was developed in the mid-20th century and became widely used in popular music during the 1970s and 1980s.
"Pop" is short for "popular", which describes music that is commercially successful, has wide appeal, and is typically characterized by catchy melodies, simple song structures, and a focus on radio-friendly accessibility.
The term "synthpop" emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s to describe a genre of music that combined the use of synthesizers with the melodic and accessible qualities of pop music.
