When it comes to music, the mainstream often dominates the airwaves and headlines, leaving little room for underground artists to gain recognition. But what does it really mean when we say a piece of music or a band is “underground”? Let’s take a closer look at the definition of underground music, the different genres that fall into this category, and how to discover these hidden gems.
What makes a song underground?
The term “underground music” refers to any type of music that is not mainstream or widely popular. Usually, underground music is produced and distributed independently, without the backing of a major record label. This means that underground music often has a more raw, authentic sound and can explore more unconventional or controversial themes.
Many underground artists reject the idea of seeking mainstream success and instead focus on creating music that is true to their artistic vision. As a result, underground music has been responsible for pushing the boundaries of music and introducing new sounds and styles to the world.
How do you know if a band is underground?
Identifying underground music can sometimes be tricky, particularly if you’re not already familiar with the artists in question. Some signs that a band or artist might be underground include:
- Lack of mainstream radio play or coverage in major music publications.
- Minimal social media presence or marketing.
- Independent or self-released music.
- Small or unconventional venues for live performances.
- A focus on authenticity and creative expression over commercial success.
Of course, not all underground artists will exhibit every one of these traits, and some artists who exhibit one or more of these traits may not necessarily be underground. Ultimately, the label of “underground music” is often subjective and up for debate.
What are some underground music genres?
Underground music spans a wide range of genres and styles, and new subgenres are constantly emerging. Some common underground music genres include:
- Indie rock
- Punk
- Hip hop
- Electronic
- Noise
- Experimental
Within each of these genres, there are countless subgenres and variations, each with their own unique sound and style. For example, within the punk genre, you might find subgenres like crust punk, emo, or riot grrrl. Meanwhile, electronic music includes subgenres like techno, house, and ambient.
Who started underground music?
The history of underground music dates back decades, and it’s difficult to pinpoint a single person or event that started it all. However, the punk movement of the 1970s is often cited as a major milestone in the rise of underground music.
Punk emerged as a reaction to the commercialization of rock music, and many punk bands rejected the idea of playing in large venues or signing with major record labels. Instead, they played in smaller clubs and released their music independently, often distributed through DIY channels like zines and mixtapes.
Other genres, like hip hop and electronic music, also emerged from DIY scenes, driven by artists who rejected mainstream conventions and sought to create music on their own terms.
How to discover underground music
If you’re interested in exploring the world of underground music, there are countless ways to discover new artists and genres:
- Attend small, local shows and festivals to see emerging artists perform live.
- Follow independent music blogs and publications to stay up-to-date on new releases.
- Listen to community radio stations or online streaming services that emphasize indie and underground music.
- Seek out record stores that specialize in underground or independent music.
- Connect with other music fans online through social media and forums.
Regardless of how you choose to discover underground music, the key is to keep an open mind and be willing to explore sounds and genres that you might not have considered before. Who knows—you might just discover your new favorite band in the process.