What 80s song has this distinctive synth riff?
Introduction
The 1980s marked a significant era in music, characterized by the rise of synthesizers as integral components of songs. Synthesizers, both polyphonic and digital, became popular among artists across various genres, including rock, pop, and disco. This article explores the distinctive synth riffs that defined 80s music and examines some of the iconic songs that featured these memorable riffs.
The Influence of Synthesizers in the 80s
During the 80s, synthesizers revolutionized the music industry, ushering in a new wave of sound experimentation and creativity. Artists embraced these electronic instruments, pushing the boundaries of musical expression. Several synthesizers played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the 80s, including the Roland TB-303, Moog Minimoog, and Yamaha DX7, among others.
The Prevalence of Synths in the 80s Music Landscape
The influence of synths in the 80s can be traced back to the previous decade, where artists like Gary Numan and Kraftwerk showcased the potential of synthesizers in their songs. Their heavy use of synths laid the foundation for the widespread adoption of these instruments in the 80s. As a result, artists from various genres, ranging from rock to pop and disco, embraced keyboards and synths, integrating them seamlessly into their music.
Distinctive Synth Riffs in Iconic 80s Songs
Throughout the 80s, numerous songs stood out for their distinctive synth riffs. These riffs captured the essence of the era and became iconic elements of their respective tracks. Let’s explore some of these memorable songs:
“The Final Countdown” by Europe
One of the most recognizable synth riffs in rock history can be found in Europe’s “The Final Countdown.” The heroic riff, played with a Roland JX-8P, became synonymous with the song and permeated popular culture. Composed by lead singer Joey Tempest, this riff propelled the song forward and left an indelible mark on the music scene.
“Jump” by Van Halen
Van Halen’s “Jump” features a catchy synth riff that exemplifies the fusion of synths and hard rock. The song opens with an infectious riff played on an Oberheim OB-Xa. This riff, accompanied by punctuated drum kicks and David Lee Roth’s iconic scream, solidified “Jump” as one of the most played riffs of all time.
“Baba O’Riley” by The Who
The Who’s “Baba O’Riley” stands out as a unique song with an iconic synth riff. Pete Townsend’s layered synth work created a groundbreaking example of synth usage in rock music. The riff, characterized by the marimba repeat setting on the Lowrey synth, showcases a complex repeating pattern that transitions into a more rock ‘n’ roll style tone, making it one of the best synth intros of all time.
Conclusion
The 80s witnessed the integration of synthesizers into various musical genres, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape. From rock anthems to pop hits, synthesizers became integral components of songs, primarily due to their ability to produce distinctive and memorable riffs. Songs like Europe’s “The Final Countdown,” Van Halen’s “Jump,” and The Who’s “Baba O’Riley” exemplify the iconic synth riffs that defined the sound of the 80s.
Sources:
- “80s Keyboard Riffs” by Pianote. Available at: https://www.pianote.com/blog/80s-keyboard-riffs/
- “15 Songs With Incredible Synthesizer Riffs” by Musician Wave. Available at: https://www.musicianwave.com/songs-with-amazing-synth-riffs/
- “20 Songs With Amazing Synth Riffs (With Videos)” by Keyboard Kraze. Available at: https://keyboardkraze.com/best-synthesizer-riffs/
FAQs
What are some iconic songs from the 80s that feature distinctive synth riffs?
Several iconic songs from the 80s are known for their distinctive synth riffs. Examples include “The Final Countdown” by Europe, “Jump” by Van Halen, and “Baba O’Riley” by The Who.
What synthesizers were commonly used in the 80s to create these synth riffs?
In the 80s, synthesizers such as the Roland TB-303, Moog Minimoog, and Yamaha DX7 were commonly used to create the synth riffs that defined the era.
Which artists in the 70s influenced the use of synths in 80s music?
Artists like Gary Numan and Kraftwerk heavily used synths in their songs during the 70s, influencing the music of the 80s and paving the way for the widespread adoption of synthesizers in various genres.
How did synthesizers contribute to the sound of 80s music?
Synthesizers became integral components of 80s music, adding unique textures and sounds to songs across different genres. They allowed artists to experiment with electronic sounds, resulting in the distinct synth-driven sound that characterized the decade.
What makes the synth riff in “The Final Countdown” by Europe so iconic?
The synth riff in “The Final Countdown” by Europe is played with a Roland JX-8P and has become one of the most recognizable and iconic synth riffs in rock history. Its heroic and catchy nature, combined with its frequent use in sports events and pop culture, contributed to its iconic status.
What synthesizer was used to create the synth riff in “Jump” by Van Halen?
The synth riff in “Jump” by Van Halen was played on an Oberheim OB-Xa. This catchy riff, accompanied by punctuated drum kicks and David Lee Roth’s distinct vocals, made it one of the most memorable synth riffs of the 80s.
How did The Who incorporate synths in their song “Baba O’Riley”?
The Who’s “Baba O’Riley” features an iconic synth riff created by Pete Townsend. He used layered synth work, including the marimba repeat setting on the Lowrey synth, to create a unique and groundbreaking example of synth usage in rock music.
Were synths only limited to rock music in the 80s?
No, synths were not limited to rock music in the 80s. They were widely adopted across various genres, including pop, disco, and even experimental electronic music. Synthesizers became a staple in the music industry, contributing to the diverse soundscape of the decade.