BY VICTORIA OKON
The evolution of music diversifies with each passing decade; this fast paced change has gradually seen a phenomenal incline as various artists introduce their own unique sense of sound and rhythm, crafting new genres that continue to evolve overtime.
If you are a music buff, this article is for you, here’s a look at music as it has transcended through the ages.
60’s
The word “disco” is derived from a French word “discothèque”, a name used to describe nightclubs in Paris.
Disco and Rock was popular during the 1960’s and 70’s. This era was known mostly for the style of music and the unparalleled fashion statements associated with it.
The 60’s gave rise to some of the most renowned music artisans such as Grace Jones, Diana Ross, Elvis Presley and the Bee Gees.
70’s
During this decade, reggae shined brightly which later transitioned to dancehall. The Jamaicans took center stage and brought various dance moves along with a fashion statement that exuded culture and diversity. With time, dancehall fused with RnB and a dash of Hip hop to create a mix of thrills and chills to the populace.
Legends like Bob Marley, paved a way for new generation artists like Sean Paul and Beenie Man.
80’s
The 80’s birthed the likes of Whitney Houston, Prince, Chaka Khan, Fela and Marvin Gaye to mention a few.
This era was also known for the invent of afro-jùjú which is a mix of afrobeats and Jùjú music which led a movement championed by King Sunny Ade, who became an international success with legendary back-to-back hits.
Syncro System was the hit album which made him the first Nigerian to bag a Grammy award nomination.
90’s
90’s music was characterized by a wide variety of genres from R&B , Soul, Rock ‘n’ Roll to Blues, Hip-hop, Pop and Jazz. The afro soul took center stage before the younger brood came into play.
Seyi Sodimu’s ‘Love me jeje’ is a known classic that still goes down in the books as one of the most danceable love songs. On the international scene, artists such as the renowned girl bands, TLC and Spice Girls came to be, that era also saw the rise of Brittany Spears, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Beyonce etc.
The Millennial Age
The millennial music era started out with people embracing more Hip-hop than pop and giving other genres a chance in the spotlight.
With genres merging and creating new sounds, afro-pop, country and techno music came alive.
…the power of music brings a certain togetherness which is felt and shared.
Latin music also gained more recognition with notable artists like Shakira, Ricky Martin, Enrique Iglesias and a host of others taking over. Expressions became more vivid and fascinating and everyone seemed accepting of the new music but the older breeds could not be neglected such as the likes of “Whitney Houston” and “Michael Jackson”.
Let’s not forget the magic “Lionel Richie” created when he reconvened various artists to raise an awareness for the 2010 Haiti Earthquake where they performed a rendition of the iconic song “We are the world” which brought about a lot of support from different reaches of the globe.
There is no question about the fact that the power of music brings a certain togetherness which is felt and shared.
