“Darkwave” music is on the rise for Gen Z. The music landscape is currently dominated by a growing appetite for moody, minimalist, synth-heavy sounds with a lo-fi twist. Even Spotify has curated a playlist featuring emerging artists like Artemas, Mareux, Boy Harsher, and more, alongside veteran acts like the Cure and Depeche Mode, under the banner of “darkwave.” However, there’s no consensus on what defines this genre or whether certain artists fit the bill. But despite the apparent disconnect between the 1980s music scene and the new Gen Z artists, many of whom cite Nirvana, grunge, and SoundCloud rap as influences, the darkwave movement appears to be enduring. Fans praise the music for its honesty and sincerity, suggesting that it has struck a chord with new young listeners on a deeper level. (The Guardian)
📊 YPulse data: 76% of 13-39-year-olds agree, “I am always trying to discover new music artists”
