article JJ's Bizarre Blog #78 - Kingdom of Music Part 1 - Britannia Rules the Radiowaves in Community Blog

article JJ's Bizarre Blog #78 - Kingdom of Music Part 1 - Britannia Rules the Radiowaves in Community Blog https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-78-Kingdom-of-Music-Part-1-Britannia-Rules-the/ba-p/7436195 <P><SPAN>Greetings and salutations, lads and ladies! The time has come for another Bizarre foray to commence! It has been a long time since we did our last geographic exploration of a nation's music, maybe I needed a cooldown after the <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-57-United-We-Stand-Part-1-Land-of-the-Free/ba-p/7045786" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first ever</A> <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-z-Bizarre-Blog-58-United-We-Stand-Part-2-Home-of-the-Brave/ba-p/7045975" target="_blank" rel="noopener">two-parter</A> blog. But enough dilly-dallying, let's do that exact thing all over again! This time, we're back on my side of the pond and we're going to tackle one of the most musically and overall culturally influential nations on Earth, a package of multiple countries that has left an immeasurable mark on the world and has produced some of the most important music ever! This is the riveting tale of how a cold and damp cluster of islands off the coast of Europe changed everything! I hereby welcome you to the first volume of the grand musical legacy of the United Kingdom!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>I'm sure no matter where you're from, you've surely heard about this place. The terminology itself here is a bit particular and it's important to distinguish which is which. The countries of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are all separate entities, the ones together on the main island form Great Britain and all of them together constitute the complete United Kingdom. Without getting sidetracked into history and political structure, all you need to know is that British culture has stretched globally and they have been one of the most musically significant nations in history. Their music rings out in every country around the globe and their influence cannot be overstated. In many ways, music as we know it today exists thanks to them. So, without further ado, let's adventure on and see how this all came to be!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <P><A href="spotify:track:120p13uQpxSDyauaPSl85D:small" target="_self">spotify:track:120p13uQpxSDyauaPSl85D:small</A> </P> <P><A href="spotify:track:6pBZ3BiJxTSHvaqOeKUKOI:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6pBZ3BiJxTSHvaqOeKUKOI:small</A> </P> <P><A href="spotify:track:1k56b9w8XDvp7mH5CDU7No:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1k56b9w8XDvp7mH5CDU7No:small</A> </P> <P><A href="spotify:track:0OOxEM69Bs2NRZI9krgPxt:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0OOxEM69Bs2NRZI9krgPxt:small</A> </P> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>The British Isles have millennia of history and have been inhabited for centuries, so their legacy of folklore and traditional music is ancient and rich. Archaic songs of nature, old traditions and mythologies have persevered to this day and tell of the bountiful tales that have transpired across these lands. English traditional music is commonly full of whimsy and wonder and has a distinctly recognizable style. Welsh and Irish songs are rooted in Celtic traditions and are still often sung in the old Gaelic languages still spoken there today. But of course we can't forget easily the most iconic of them all - the Scottish! I can guarantee you've heard their legendary bagpipes as they bellow out epic songs of battle, struggle and triumph! They're never shy of celebrating their own rich Celtic heritage. It's a mythologized sound that has captivated the world and is so intrinsically linked to its birthplace in the Highlands! </SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3aml9D9hYHvxz3Jl0uci4g:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3aml9D9hYHvxz3Jl0uci4g:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1j2zbzbPQdlXwrnCK1P4DW:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1j2zbzbPQdlXwrnCK1P4DW:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6lqW8UxASWWLSrhGZj8YrZ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6lqW8UxASWWLSrhGZj8YrZ:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4NQU8TgBwdqHUyZyJiUyN1:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4NQU8TgBwdqHUyZyJiUyN1:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:29cCwVRaMNW7VgcxXuUYTn:small" target="_self">spotify:track:29cCwVRaMNW7VgcxXuUYTn:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4Bf0pPhF1KHqnIEensWMuN:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4Bf0pPhF1KHqnIEensWMuN:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6hlD234UJAVReYDfUSk90m:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6hlD234UJAVReYDfUSk90m:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2ChDtoshGkVjjsMRhWAMTo:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2ChDtoshGkVjjsMRhWAMTo:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1sHbfADHondJUFggxJFLFM:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1sHbfADHondJUFggxJFLFM:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1OLe8PMhCAIkFzcYUX9bfC:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1OLe8PMhCAIkFzcYUX9bfC:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5RXAL1YEzcDSNgfbIu7088:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5RXAL1YEzcDSNgfbIu7088:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2XJvlaJaCB1QFi3SIhvHQ9:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2XJvlaJaCB1QFi3SIhvHQ9:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>To this day, there's no shortage of young artists striving to preserve and expand this rich legacy and folk music from all peoples of the isles is beloved and celebrated still! Of these revival artists, one band has stood head and shoulders above the rest and that's The Longest Johns! Named after the iconic character from Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson's legendary pirate novel "Treasure Island", this Bristol band of bards have crafted an authentic, yet polished and modern folk sound, mainly based around shanties and singalong tunes about pirates, seafaring, life in olden times or just having a merry old time. Many of their songs are also completely a capella, carried only by their beautiful voices and incredible harmonies. The Longest Johns have become a massive success, helping preserve the culture of England and being key players in the renewed popularity of sea shanties worldwide!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0XjXdSe8kJkexYwQ3iXZhj:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0XjXdSe8kJkexYwQ3iXZhj:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:54SRl48aPmFkz9Kfmua6eM:small" target="_self">spotify:track:54SRl48aPmFkz9Kfmua6eM:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1rPd2ueokFrTzZcmCdWFPs:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1rPd2ueokFrTzZcmCdWFPs:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="32px"><A href="spotify:track:6A9VoG81NedYgH2pRSxKmb:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6A9VoG81NedYgH2pRSxKmb:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="32px"><A href="spotify:track:0j977DgEcTs9CnPNT843bW:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0j977DgEcTs9CnPNT843bW:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="32px"><A href="spotify:track:4aKY9ILnaRzxvQtZsapMAC:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4aKY9ILnaRzxvQtZsapMAC:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2h9R2QMhPvpFOY5jAq3x5N:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2h9R2QMhPvpFOY5jAq3x5N:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6SR74RtJvS1F0I46uG8YcL:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6SR74RtJvS1F0I46uG8YcL:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0wZ8TWoMdxnSfOYJgZke0V:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0wZ8TWoMdxnSfOYJgZke0V:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Growing off of their rich folk traditions, while not as heavily involved as other nations, the United Kingdom has no shortage of great contributions to the world of classical music. Over the course of centuries, aided by musically inclined kings and queens (such as Henry VIII, who was a composer and musician himself!), they have left a great mark and contributed some of the most iconic compositions of all time! After all, London, Glasgow, Edinburgh and many other cities have been some of the most important cultural centres in all of Europe for centuries, so it's no surprise that so much influential music has gestated here.</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:50eNjemPan0DlH9CcngZh4:small" target="_self">spotify:track:50eNjemPan0DlH9CcngZh4:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2RRVXJFJ6zl7eePo8k815C:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2RRVXJFJ6zl7eePo8k815C:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:657dfSOcneEpGOuBfozqa1:small" target="_self">spotify:track:657dfSOcneEpGOuBfozqa1:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1RW2fZe8W6BYcVxZa5OY4T:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1RW2fZe8W6BYcVxZa5OY4T:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3wg9AD7ABxJG4bfuugfeWO:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3wg9AD7ABxJG4bfuugfeWO:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6vuCgQZFVWhgtaPyCPf3AR:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6vuCgQZFVWhgtaPyCPf3AR:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>There's lots more to dive in there, but let's now move into popular, contemporary territory and music that I'm sure you'll be familiar with! Being the home of the industrial revolution, the UK was among the first places to transition from the oral traditions and music hall performances of yore into popular recorded music as we know it today. As the decades rolled in, they would help build the music industry and be among the first to define what "pop music" even meant. And while cultural zeitgeist could ebb and flow, the Brits stayed on top in one form or another. A big culmination of this would come in the 60s with the formation of a humble quartet in Liverpool - The Beatles! This rock band would create some enchantingly catchy tunes that instantly captivated not just their homeland, but the whole world! And for the next decade or so, Beatlemania was the biggest cultural phenomenon ever seen until then as everyone wanted more of their magical music! They were somehow able to be simultaneously the most commercially successful band ever, yet also a symbol of counterculture and youth rebellion! Even as they evolved into more progressive and psychedelic territory later in their careers and despite their time together being all too brief, The Beatles changed the game, they defined the culture of generations and their legacy can still be felt today!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7iN1s7xHE4ifF5povM6A48:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7iN1s7xHE4ifF5povM6A48:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2EqlS6tkEnglzr7tkKAAYD:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2EqlS6tkEnglzr7tkKAAYD:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3BQHpFgAp4l80e1XslIjNI:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3BQHpFgAp4l80e1XslIjNI:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3mlMpmY8oZIBFc39D9zLbh:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3mlMpmY8oZIBFc39D9zLbh:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0hKRSZhUGEhKU6aNSPBACZ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0hKRSZhUGEhKU6aNSPBACZ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5Qe7NHxeLAn8KoLTNLSdwe:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5Qe7NHxeLAn8KoLTNLSdwe:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>The Beatles would quickly be followed by a different English powerhouse - The Rolling Stones! Unlike the former, the Stones have a storied career spanning six entire decades and throughout all of that, they have remained one of the most beloved and powerful rock bands to ever exist, also managing to be both a mainstream phenomenon and a countercultural institution! Managing to refine their amazing musicianship to an approachable and instantly captivating sound, especially thanks to brilliant guitarist and genius songwriter Keith Richards, fueled by the peerless passion and ceaseless energy of their iconic frontman Mick Jagger, very few have reached the unparalleled superstardom that these legends have! Fewer still will ever even dream to match it! The title of "Greatest Rock 'n' Roll band of all time" hardly fits anybody else!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:63T7DJ1AFDD6Bn8VzG6JE8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:63T7DJ1AFDD6Bn8VzG6JE8:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2PzU4IB8Dr6mxV3lHuaG34:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2PzU4IB8Dr6mxV3lHuaG34:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1Ud6moTC0KyXMq1Oxfien0:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1Ud6moTC0KyXMq1Oxfien0:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:61UuPxxYUvacEH6SHIK3sU:small" target="_self">spotify:track:61UuPxxYUvacEH6SHIK3sU:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1uBsu3PbD2909UBIfEMLvK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1uBsu3PbD2909UBIfEMLvK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4cYixasStbsXGnhyKxHEFN:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4cYixasStbsXGnhyKxHEFN:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>These two were just the biggest names among many that kickstarted the appropriately named "British Invasion", a period during the 60s when many UK bands rose to superstardom and managed to top all the charts across the pond over in the United States, often outperforming the locals. From there, they would grow globally and captivate the entire world with their music, becoming the most iconic soundtrack of the entire era. This would in turn go on to influence the sound of subsequent bands that found their footing in their wake, thus further cementing their immortal legacies! And to this day, countless iconic British bands were ones that were key players in the Invasion!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0cKk8BKEi7zXbdrYdyqBP5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0cKk8BKEi7zXbdrYdyqBP5:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7AL6qzIDHIX7pEUWrzNiIs:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7AL6qzIDHIX7pEUWrzNiIs:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6L5BZEcZmD6RBJnimzlyKr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6L5BZEcZmD6RBJnimzlyKr:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0tw9YJD5pF7JgjbKjO29kP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0tw9YJD5pF7JgjbKjO29kP:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5JP6wL89ZQf17N8FxVap9N:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5JP6wL89ZQf17N8FxVap9N:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4vPpI0l3DetH5RxGgAPwE2:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4vPpI0l3DetH5RxGgAPwE2:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6U0NPtExZu3tKg8ZDozFxl:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6U0NPtExZu3tKg8ZDozFxl:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3G0EALIIp5DAeIERxXBHmo:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3G0EALIIp5DAeIERxXBHmo:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7gBSpAw5D8ynL5wKZ94oev:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7gBSpAw5D8ynL5wKZ94oev:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0GxV3poTM7Z7fKSUqy5qFw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0GxV3poTM7Z7fKSUqy5qFw:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1fSdAkbofT03q7ddO2jdss:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1fSdAkbofT03q7ddO2jdss:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6C4iMi6YSLjmZ8GFqEsrby:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6C4iMi6YSLjmZ8GFqEsrby:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>As the 70s rolled in, the UK only further diversified and empowered their musical portfolio. One of the key players to arise and take the torch would be Queen! With some of the best musicians to ever live in their ranks and the (in my opinion) greatest frontman to ever live Freddy Mercury at the helm, it didn't take long for this outfit to become a sensation! Their music was whimsical, magical and unique, bringing an energy no other band ever managed to recreate and even when they got heavier or more experimental, the songs remained instantly catchy and unforgettable. You almost feel like you were born already knowing these tunes. It's truly a kind of magic! I don't think I need to convince you much that Queen were and remain one of the most legendary and influential music acts of all time and many songs of their have immortalized in the collective consciousness of humanity!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4u7EnebtmKWzUH433cf5Qv:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4u7EnebtmKWzUH433cf5Qv:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5vdp5UmvTsnMEMESIF2Ym7:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5vdp5UmvTsnMEMESIF2Ym7:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2AkmdLbVKS1steeZdy8H1l:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2AkmdLbVKS1steeZdy8H1l:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5T8EDUDqKcs6OSOwEsfqG7:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5T8EDUDqKcs6OSOwEsfqG7:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5RYLa5P4qweEAKq5U1gdcK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5RYLa5P4qweEAKq5U1gdcK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4zguEJ2UaLe4zbEIDWqiVP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4zguEJ2UaLe4zbEIDWqiVP:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Similar is the case with the shining star that is David Bowie! This enigmatic genius was know for his eccentric looks, strange and mysterious music and continued reinvention throughout his storied career, but no matter what, he always captivated in ways that few could and took the listener on amazing journeys through inner and outer space. His music was both brilliantly simple, yet layered and complex. You were hooked and you could never look away. There never has been and never will be an artist as unique and unforgettable as David Bowie!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:72Z17vmmeQKAg8bptWvpVG:small" target="_self">spotify:track:72Z17vmmeQKAg8bptWvpVG:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7Jh1bpe76CNTCgdgAdBw4Z:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7Jh1bpe76CNTCgdgAdBw4Z:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0pQskrTITgmCMyr85tb9qq:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0pQskrTITgmCMyr85tb9qq:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5IyL3XOaRPpTgxVjRIAxXU:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5IyL3XOaRPpTgxVjRIAxXU:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4mWahKerLaVddUjb8d1Q4Q:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4mWahKerLaVddUjb8d1Q4Q:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6FnuMo55jNECTDdS1nD5H0:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6FnuMo55jNECTDdS1nD5H0:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>And if they somehow weren't enough, there was no shortage of further artists during the 70s and 80s that blessed us with all manner of amazing music that has reached legendary status with time! The beautiful singing and brilliant musicianship of Elton John, the instantly catchy tunes of Wham! and later by the endlessly charismatic George Michael, the unique voice and musical brilliance of Phil Collins who was an inescapable chart-topping staple during his heyday - these are just a small sample of the incredible musical output the UK has had during this time and it's crazy to think how each and every one is a wholly different story, birthing a completely different sound, all leading to immense success and music that the entire world cannot get enough of. Just one of these would be noteworthy enough, but all of them together just creates such a thoroughly fascinating tapestry to explore!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0EANX0OVKSCcmarY50Xa4p:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0EANX0OVKSCcmarY50Xa4p:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3gdewACMIVMEWVbyb8O9sY:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3gdewACMIVMEWVbyb8O9sY:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4IRHwIZHzlHT1FQpRa5RdE:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4IRHwIZHzlHT1FQpRa5RdE:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6KsgCYcZKPcBRDNGhiZWRR:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6KsgCYcZKPcBRDNGhiZWRR:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:71lebjkaaiB7UgOlGeqt7M:small" target="_self">spotify:track:71lebjkaaiB7UgOlGeqt7M:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0HEmnAUT8PHznIAAmVXqFJ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0HEmnAUT8PHznIAAmVXqFJ:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4YwbSZaYeYja8Umyt222Qf:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4YwbSZaYeYja8Umyt222Qf:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1NCuYqMc8hKMb4cpNTcJbD:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1NCuYqMc8hKMb4cpNTcJbD:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4F2t297QK40XFcIHqkmLHs:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4F2t297QK40XFcIHqkmLHs:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:44aTAUBF0g6sMkMNE8I5kd:small" target="_self">spotify:track:44aTAUBF0g6sMkMNE8I5kd:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4KFM3A5QF2IMcc6nHsu3Wp:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4KFM3A5QF2IMcc6nHsu3Wp:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:029NqmIySn1kOY305AAhxT:small" target="_self">spotify:track:029NqmIySn1kOY305AAhxT:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>And that's not all from the era, far from it! During the late 70s and early 80s was also a time of reinvention and many alternative genres would spawn across the UK, acting as counterpoints to the established mainstream sound. Yet, despite going against the grain, the artists behind these movements still found huge success and spoke to the hearts of countless! The new wave movement began as an evolution of many different ideas and eventually catalyzed into the synth-driven rock sound we know today with bands like Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Duran Duran, Pet Shop Boys and more becoming superstars. The alternative rock and post-punk movement sought to create a dark and melancholic sound to become the soundtrack of the disenfranchised youth. Bands like Joy Division proved to be ahead of their time and they cast a long shadow that still deeply influences modern music in countless ways. Slightly after them, the gothic rock sound would be born as another take on macabre music with a touch of magic romanticism, spawning both a vast network of genres to follow and a recognizable fashion movement, all helping to build one of the deepest and richest subcultures in music!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1mb5bblw96UieIjCPlWyEw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1mb5bblw96UieIjCPlWyEw:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7uBdncahX0bULWkpaDax8y:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7uBdncahX0bULWkpaDax8y:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5Klo65Y9uouLjNVDV3pqh7:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5Klo65Y9uouLjNVDV3pqh7:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1XSjN64QCdFauII9t0IaGk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1XSjN64QCdFauII9t0IaGk:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1ff8lsrJ2kuZuofMw81EQo:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1ff8lsrJ2kuZuofMw81EQo:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2EEinN4Zk8MUv4OQuLsTBj:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2EEinN4Zk8MUv4OQuLsTBj:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5EabbLQZbdhCqG6aK9PFLU:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5EabbLQZbdhCqG6aK9PFLU:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:34iOH7LY3vme5rQxsVILZ4:small" target="_self">spotify:track:34iOH7LY3vme5rQxsVILZ4:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1Bq65xKgu0kjSUMUlfWyPl:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1Bq65xKgu0kjSUMUlfWyPl:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7mJ8LgmL8VX9jJGgqbbzFv:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7mJ8LgmL8VX9jJGgqbbzFv:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0REpPp52QdY7Uz4e4yjpHH:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0REpPp52QdY7Uz4e4yjpHH:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1wyVyr8OhYsC9l0WgPPbh8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1wyVyr8OhYsC9l0WgPPbh8:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>As the 90s rolled in, more and more shifts were coming about, but one thing remained a fixture - UK music all across the charts! One of the key players to do so in this decade would be the aptly named britpop! Taking inspiration from grunge, this rock genre firmly rooted in British culture became insanely popular thanks to its catchy riffage, unique vocal deliveries and relatable lyricism. I'm sure you've heard of a band called Oasis, they're a good reason why some people worry a bit whenever someone picks up an acoustic guitar at any social gathering, but be that as it may, they have achieved amazing success and were one of the spearheads of britpop. At the same time, alt rock continued to evolve into its own grungy direction and evolving onwards with bands like Radiohead achieving massive success and proving that even weird songs meant to break norms can become the anthems of generations!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2CVV8PtUYYsux8XOzWkCP0:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2CVV8PtUYYsux8XOzWkCP0:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6HbWoyinLdXPZmk6xONuKw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6HbWoyinLdXPZmk6xONuKw:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:73CKjW3vsUXRpy3NnX4H7F:small" target="_self">spotify:track:73CKjW3vsUXRpy3NnX4H7F:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD><A href="spotify:track:5qqabIl2vWzo9ApSC317sa:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5qqabIl2vWzo9ApSC317sa:small</A> </TD> <TD><A href="spotify:track:3GfOAdcoc3X5GPiiXmpBjK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3GfOAdcoc3X5GPiiXmpBjK:small</A> </TD> <TD><A href="spotify:track:1idZSAVHfLPQq9tDTYhnIA:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1idZSAVHfLPQq9tDTYhnIA:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6JWddKPdqvDc2WkPEi9grC:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6JWddKPdqvDc2WkPEi9grC:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5fMsCc2EkCdLAo78iVlLgA:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5fMsCc2EkCdLAo78iVlLgA:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:57iDDD9N9tTWe75x6qhStw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:57iDDD9N9tTWe75x6qhStw:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Going into the 2000s and later the 2010s, British dominance on the charts hasn't ceased! For even in the era of modern pop music as we're used to it, there's no shortage of names from the UK that reach the highest echelons of fame and success! They blessed us with some of the best boy and girl bands towards the tail end of the 90s and as the new millennium rolled in and from there, people like Robbie Williams, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Ed Sheeran and many more have been topping charts, clearing Grammys and filling up stadiums worldwide! The Brits just have some kind of uncanny knack for writing amazing hit songs that anyone can get into and they're showing no signs of losing that talent!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1yTQ39my3MoNROlFw3RDNy:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1yTQ39my3MoNROlFw3RDNy:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0UODoSWbhBQyUhzL10D03d:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0UODoSWbhBQyUhzL10D03d:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3yZNKN3r1USoCVij9VDSh6:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3yZNKN3r1USoCVij9VDSh6:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2Ms33RTRCT6gArrpcrPxmo:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2Ms33RTRCT6gArrpcrPxmo:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3yUcJwYu7fXAfqMj9krY6l:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3yUcJwYu7fXAfqMj9krY6l:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0vg4WnUWvze6pBOJDTq99k:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0vg4WnUWvze6pBOJDTq99k:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6VObnIkLVruX4UVyxWhlqm:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6VObnIkLVruX4UVyxWhlqm:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6K8qKeWo5MsFED7wCR6Kop:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6K8qKeWo5MsFED7wCR6Kop:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4b4c0oH7PtrPsI86drzgFs:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4b4c0oH7PtrPsI86drzgFs:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Branching out beyond pop, let's dive into hip-hop then! UK rap has been its own solid institution for decades. Several names have garnered much commercial success and become charting mainstays, while a good chunk of the rap scene remains relatively underappreciated. British rap is often recognizable by its harsher sound that carries broad influences from many other genres and cultures, as well as blunt and direct lyrics delivered through the unique lingo and street slang used by the youth of the isles. It very much carries its own style and is often a voice of rebellion, displeasure and contempt. Although the Brits of course know how to party and there's no shortage of rap songs about that too! </SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7gWSWDBriMK7YKefAe4NMP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7gWSWDBriMK7YKefAe4NMP:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5m5TRf7ggoguXtcXQGprN4:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5m5TRf7ggoguXtcXQGprN4:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5pmL3RzOy3IvGFaSDi4hZL:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5pmL3RzOy3IvGFaSDi4hZL:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6ddQ5KCkvCggk3j6KdA0zL:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6ddQ5KCkvCggk3j6KdA0zL:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2VjOTvl50tscmc0RDjPdr2:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2VjOTvl50tscmc0RDjPdr2:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6X5OFBbrsHRsyO1zP7udgr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6X5OFBbrsHRsyO1zP7udgr:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1o1x4gUntwc9sqeMDWR9eE:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1o1x4gUntwc9sqeMDWR9eE:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1vrHvLIgh1wjMFpjTr5bMu:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1vrHvLIgh1wjMFpjTr5bMu:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5Y3Dbc0pkkl7yOgTopuXZn:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5Y3Dbc0pkkl7yOgTopuXZn:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>While we're at it, I want to give a special shoutout to a particular favourite of mine and a hidden gem of UK rap and that's Context MC! He's recongizable by his catchy and interesting beats that borrow heavily from electronic music to create a really punchy and danceable vibe, the ideal backdrop for him to use his deep supple voice and thick British accent to deliver his poignant and metaphorical lyrics that perfectly capture the pathos of daily life for the average Englishman. Both lyrically and sonically, Context is unique and his catchy and fun songs somehow perfectly fit the vibe of British life and capture feelings that many of us can relate to. Even if we struggle to articulate them, Context can definitely do it!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0OoiG8B49CMDNXNxJ4LQOG:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0OoiG8B49CMDNXNxJ4LQOG:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6hFuhL4BkmT9KShZbAwQKb:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6hFuhL4BkmT9KShZbAwQKb:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7GuiTkDHokQLuPEgunN2cu:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7GuiTkDHokQLuPEgunN2cu:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0DUOIVMBxlKjUPgN6exMTh:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0DUOIVMBxlKjUPgN6exMTh:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6mh7Q2b8CFlQuupotnw8v7:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6mh7Q2b8CFlQuupotnw8v7:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1f118Vd1QKr8imtKYy3K9x:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1f118Vd1QKr8imtKYy3K9x:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Over the years, UK rap has evolved many of its own subgenres too! One such is trip hop, a more electronically infused style that strives for a darker, more eerie vibe that sounds "trippy", hence the name. It takes the more open-ended free form experimentation of UK rap and brings it to its logical conclusion, creating a captivating sound that is equal parts rap and electronic, all awesome!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2yWyFT6bW1Rd9cjVvYi4v8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2yWyFT6bW1Rd9cjVvYi4v8:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:26GaafCq5fOfFnGEk2wT2k:small" target="_self">spotify:track:26GaafCq5fOfFnGEk2wT2k:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2wC0qK8JN6gblb0ZJzE2d9:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2wC0qK8JN6gblb0ZJzE2d9:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6x98PZzecLKDucRBL324qT:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6x98PZzecLKDucRBL324qT:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6Xs5RQhdHaSPGOB5wkUohn:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6Xs5RQhdHaSPGOB5wkUohn:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4egJu5YVxCc23siIbkVEIz:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4egJu5YVxCc23siIbkVEIz:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>The genre was spearheaded by one of the most incredible musical acts across all of Britain - the mighty Massive Attack! This band conquered hip-hop, birthed trip hop, became a massive hit in the electronic realms and surpassed all to become an experience like no other. Truly nothing compares to the genre-bending magic of Massive Attack and their dark yet enchanting songs. They are yet another perfect example of a band that goes against every established norm, seemingly breaks every convention, appears all too bizarre and unusual at first glance, yet their musical brilliance is so undeniable, that they became a worldwide sensation regardless!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7uv632EkfwYhXoqf8rhYrg:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7uv632EkfwYhXoqf8rhYrg:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5jKuwpmJwTX0f5Ztr4bVPb:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5jKuwpmJwTX0f5Ztr4bVPb:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0j5FJJOmmnXPd0XajFWkMF:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0j5FJJOmmnXPd0XajFWkMF:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0oeEqyEAavgPfFxDYvjAP6:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0oeEqyEAavgPfFxDYvjAP6:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5LrkJFmitzUrKZnt5iXl8A:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5LrkJFmitzUrKZnt5iXl8A:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4MeckCCA1IaxipPl3y1agG:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4MeckCCA1IaxipPl3y1agG:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Another UK rap subgenre we need to mention is drill! I already told you that British hip-hop was known for its hard nosed, in-your-face kind of delivery and this genre takes that to the extreme! Songs are know for being upfront, unfiltered and aggressive in its presentation, often channeling real life struggle and conflict into the music. Taking inspiration from gangsta rap, trap as well as a variety of electronic sounds, drill has become emblematic of the UK rap scene and one of its most iconic features, a soundtrack for the modern city-dwelling folk. For the frustrated, it's the perfect avenue to let off some steam!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:56NCUaqr7sbfwY1dPZ3yp3:small" target="_self">spotify:track:56NCUaqr7sbfwY1dPZ3yp3:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:44GokgCa37BTZP2NU2zkoJ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:44GokgCa37BTZP2NU2zkoJ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5GQHGTnWod0EAV8YdgV2HR:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5GQHGTnWod0EAV8YdgV2HR:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6NsgCsUByuQKQ7zX4hzxX2:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6NsgCsUByuQKQ7zX4hzxX2:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5toZhcSathLtDfVaP2xxL5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5toZhcSathLtDfVaP2xxL5:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5NaLmTqMjjkpl8TRMaoxTO:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5NaLmTqMjjkpl8TRMaoxTO:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>But now that I've mentioned it a few times, let's dive into the absolutely astonishing legacy the UK has in terms of <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-35-Voyage-into-Synthetic-Realms/ba-p/6269798" target="_blank" rel="noopener">electronic music</A>! Since their own industrial revolution allowed it to exist, the Isles have played one of the most crucial roles in the growth of electronic sounds. Beginning in the 80s, it started to take a foothold and would form the absolutely legendary UK underground scene, one of the most fertile breeding grounds for musical innovation ever! Early popular genres like techno, house and trance quickly gained traction and became nightclub staples. Iconic brother duo Orbital (named after London's M25 actually, not anything cosmic) became a smash hit and remain standard bearers of techno to this day. The amazing Faithless spearheaded the European house scene and are responsible for some of the most enduring and iconic club dance tracks in history! And the legacy only deepens from there!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2CH4mc6qWAI3ejAdqpON9B:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2CH4mc6qWAI3ejAdqpON9B:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5RHlJjgy3fcyuGcvgTeQqo:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5RHlJjgy3fcyuGcvgTeQqo:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1ZiR1Rc3zpxsflT2tBskfp:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1ZiR1Rc3zpxsflT2tBskfp:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1pUFYb9peWkK8m1WCKNRjp:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1pUFYb9peWkK8m1WCKNRjp:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:65alEHNH6CrabO8o4dXPj7:small" target="_self">spotify:track:65alEHNH6CrabO8o4dXPj7:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4pKHsfz8ARX5m0yBlbFCYp:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4pKHsfz8ARX5m0yBlbFCYp:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>The so called UK garage scene developed over the course of the 90s and took the underground clubs by storm. Through innovation and experimentation, ideas kept broadening and this movement became a launchpad for many new genres and sounds. People from all walks of life and all over the world that were coming here and getting involved helped further expand the horizons of possibility. Many genres that dominate electronic music today like breakbeat, hardstyle, 2-step, jungle and more were in part influenced by, enhanced by or mixed with UK garage. So if you go to a big EDM festival today, be grateful to these pioneers, because it's probably not far fetched to say that whatever you're listening to now can trace its lineage back to a fresh idea, a loop, sample or beat used in a unique way by some DJ in the UK underground!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6ovn2XuGZfmmS6ljOHdPBg:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6ovn2XuGZfmmS6ljOHdPBg:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7mB5AgvBYc6QasgzTxrugB:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7mB5AgvBYc6QasgzTxrugB:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:30R6QDPKZCeepPj3hSmQvp:small" target="_self">spotify:track:30R6QDPKZCeepPj3hSmQvp:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6LERtd1yiclxFH8MHAqr0Q:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6LERtd1yiclxFH8MHAqr0Q:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6zK6tHtbYjmc8zesa7e8br:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6zK6tHtbYjmc8zesa7e8br:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5xD99BTZSjk62Tl7N1T83M:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5xD99BTZSjk62Tl7N1T83M:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3vvPzmRKwWXDosbNCkJ44P:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3vvPzmRKwWXDosbNCkJ44P:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0BELfOcufjLMZkfPu2p7K5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0BELfOcufjLMZkfPu2p7K5:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5tnSb5pGs5YJX1EtOsagEJ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5tnSb5pGs5YJX1EtOsagEJ:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3IFVskDtdJTwAZ0I8HGvoO:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3IFVskDtdJTwAZ0I8HGvoO:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4UYrVcOhdVQ2L0ZwYliXNH:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4UYrVcOhdVQ2L0ZwYliXNH:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1TKyvONyKHY9ocmld1FsMk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1TKyvONyKHY9ocmld1FsMk:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>One prime example of such genesis of genres is <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-4-Count-the-Striking-Beat/ba-p/5592884" target="_blank" rel="noopener">drum 'n' bass</A>! From the experimentation of broken up syncopated beats (insert Amen Break here) as well as influences from dub and jungle music, the fast-paced energetic style was born in the UK clubs in the 90s and grew into a massive staple. The underground scene provided the ideal specific conditions for such a bold new style to emerge. It eventually broke out worldwide and became one of the most immediately recognizable electronic styles courtesy of the speedy beats and assorted mix of harsh or melodic synth lines and effects. While the genre is a global phenomenon now, the pioneering artists were all from the UK and to this day, some of the biggest and most influential names keeping the unstoppable momentum going are British through and through!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2SSYLcSiT7oImgsS8cPyQu:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2SSYLcSiT7oImgsS8cPyQu:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:04OxTCLGgDKfO0MMA2lcxv:small" target="_self">spotify:track:04OxTCLGgDKfO0MMA2lcxv:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5mZ43GKQGTutLd6ZcSRIUC:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5mZ43GKQGTutLd6ZcSRIUC:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2RzF4gZGV5EygllkBJdiqw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2RzF4gZGV5EygllkBJdiqw:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6Pm72BE4Ak1huZKx5kG2Tu:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6Pm72BE4Ak1huZKx5kG2Tu:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1Sz2HeTyTskObgMcUGy5uw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1Sz2HeTyTskObgMcUGy5uw:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>From drum 'n' bass, another beloved genre of mine was born - <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-5-Oops-I-dropped-my-bass/ba-p/5598996" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dubstep</A>! Taking yet further inspiration from 2-step and other assorted offshoots of UK garage, dubstep's unique and weird sounds were forged in the UK underground clubs and through a series of fortunate events blew up worldwide, eventually going on to be one of the most defining genres of the 2010s. Taking the beats and experimentation of DnB and breakbeat, adding even more chaos and effects and building to that iconic DROP, even among the uninitiated in the electronic sphere, dubstep is one of the most easily recognizable. And given it's origin, throughout its entire history, UK artists and labels have stood at the pinnacle as some of the finest drop-masters and bass-smiths in the world! I mean, it's for good reason that UKF Dubstep became the biggest collection of hugely successful dubstep and a gathering spot for the entire worldwide community to come together and party hard! Their role is irreplaceable in the story of how dubstep became the soundtrack of an era! You had to be there to appreciate it! Don't forget UKF Drum 'n' Bass too, they were hugely important to this whole thing too!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:30pkhGQDwnUF1ygA2tvZxK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:30pkhGQDwnUF1ygA2tvZxK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:75zs01TZIdJsYKZnHmUj6B:small" target="_self">spotify:track:75zs01TZIdJsYKZnHmUj6B:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0d3IYyTT3nPlgACNYsvxL1:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0d3IYyTT3nPlgACNYsvxL1:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3Ip32sUZMqvYEiUJwn0rJc:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3Ip32sUZMqvYEiUJwn0rJc:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5ABDsQEkVZ1ECGPGQl6Yfr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5ABDsQEkVZ1ECGPGQl6Yfr:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5on3XiVxvqu4Jtgq3TtaQX:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5on3XiVxvqu4Jtgq3TtaQX:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4qKIWylxLn4bsrVpCy4O8Z:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4qKIWylxLn4bsrVpCy4O8Z:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2cdqT34gd7gp3fhURx0s7P:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2cdqT34gd7gp3fhURx0s7P:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2EOBhbkTvO6QEAg51V0ncu:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2EOBhbkTvO6QEAg51V0ncu:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>For a more recent example of a genre to take the world by storm, we have to look at grime! Similar to dubstep, it's known for syncopated beats, chaotic and distorted sounds, harsh production and an overall potent, aggressive sound, while also adding lots of hip-hop in there. Dubstep was "filthy", but now you get "grimy"! And similarly again, despite its inherent weirdness, it grew in popularity and became one of the most iconic genres of its era. It's likewise pure British homegrown stuff, to the point where it has become emblematic of contemporary UK music as a whole! Whenever people hear the genre of grime today, they almost assume it to be British. It's had its time in the limelight and its popularity remains strong!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5CHkN1NoADMPGFFHEtVyEl:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5CHkN1NoADMPGFFHEtVyEl:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1jLJuGDpPwm3aoAGP6sapR:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1jLJuGDpPwm3aoAGP6sapR:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5XRhQZweGbmOQUF3ug04dA:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5XRhQZweGbmOQUF3ug04dA:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5tcyPxd27DWYW3FRSPFddH:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5tcyPxd27DWYW3FRSPFddH:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3T8qadBS4OsH6Yoqdw6w71:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3T8qadBS4OsH6Yoqdw6w71:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4vgLBX6ctITK8hqssbqqAO:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4vgLBX6ctITK8hqssbqqAO:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>But if there's one electronic genre that really blew up proper, then that is big beat! This grassroots UK sound is yet another disciple of breakbeat, UK garage and the underground scene, characterized by powerful beats that dominate the song, lots of samples and wild effects and pure infectious energy! It draws openly from house, techno, trance and much more to create the ultimate electronic party genre! It was pioneered in the clubs of London primarily by acts like The Chemical Brothers and Fatboy Slim, both of whom have become global superstars today! But above all, the one I know you know, are The Prodigy! With some of the most disgustingly catchy and relentlessly pumping tracks ever witnessed by man, they not only conquered the big beat scene and became its poster children, they were instrumental in helping electronic music in general break out of the underground clubs during the 90s and firmly enter the mainstream! I mean, they alongside many others of the movement had a huge number of hit songs on the charts, so needless to say, the big beat had hit hard and made its impact! While the Americans contributed tons of amazing bands to the genre as well (shoutout Crystal Method), big beat is a quintessential British sound and emblematic of one of the most exciting eras in electronic music!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6oaidYwGQkwbBbInVjfzAM:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6oaidYwGQkwbBbInVjfzAM:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:65m3XlmjBPioRtWxmdyIDB:small" target="_self">spotify:track:65m3XlmjBPioRtWxmdyIDB:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3Bh7XsEU3ITiT5t1tefc04:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3Bh7XsEU3ITiT5t1tefc04:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1FNvrp5K02oThumS6gllzp:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1FNvrp5K02oThumS6gllzp:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6zIkiZqUnSMsuRJ6acyJuD:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6zIkiZqUnSMsuRJ6acyJuD:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:42b5rRruNIvPcknHfUkkRn:small" target="_self">spotify:track:42b5rRruNIvPcknHfUkkRn:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4JLnhoa6JSXf1pAJHbrcGx:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4JLnhoa6JSXf1pAJHbrcGx:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:33OXXWr9Hx1muKvUZPzMAF:small" target="_self">spotify:track:33OXXWr9Hx1muKvUZPzMAF:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:75PWvCyXFTuXvwmntGMhuB:small" target="_self">spotify:track:75PWvCyXFTuXvwmntGMhuB:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5iAUPVlC3vBgUeEXAM7UuH:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5iAUPVlC3vBgUeEXAM7UuH:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3OgQy8Ss8aPbfFDMgvhGTS:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3OgQy8Ss8aPbfFDMgvhGTS:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4hWuNTCyQeQkzBPjjVE9rX:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4hWuNTCyQeQkzBPjjVE9rX:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>To wrap up the UK electronic realm, we must talk about one very special man. Richard D. James, most often known under the alias of Aphex Twin! This weirdo from Cornwall really stands on his own in the entire electronic world and nobody's artistry quite compares to his. He's a bold experimentalist that does absolutely whatever he feels like and while the results are often quite bizarre, his songs remain super captivating and fun! He has dabbled with almost ever genre imaginable - techno, house, drum 'n' bass, breakbeat hardcore, ambient, IDM, industrial, the list goes on. Throughout his eccentric experiments across multiple projects, he has crafted one of the most fascinating discographies ever that is ever so rewarding to explore and he stands as the perfect example of the pinnacle of the boundless imagination possible within electronic music. The man is an institution for a reason!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6gbmylJ7sB7NFfMfTQHosf:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6gbmylJ7sB7NFfMfTQHosf:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:409z4jUHpq7eIkg3N3FzZh:small" target="_self">spotify:track:409z4jUHpq7eIkg3N3FzZh:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3EhTOTAvNAUgY6AIurVxT1:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3EhTOTAvNAUgY6AIurVxT1:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3QSQbRPGDky3vRmXVeP8iU:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3QSQbRPGDky3vRmXVeP8iU:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4aRLOuRBuy3FhHkHJfCqDR:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4aRLOuRBuy3FhHkHJfCqDR:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1sTzDqhcrpB2BC8TOMeInR:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1sTzDqhcrpB2BC8TOMeInR:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>So by now, I hope you've truly gained some appreciation for the absolute breadth of musical brilliance that the UK has to offer and how far reaching their influence and legacy is! And it goes further than that! There's so many unique and niche artists that defy norms and still create a special experience. You can check out my beloved duo Bone Cult, whose self-titled "death electronica" style fuses hip-hop, metal and a huge assortment of electronic styles into a futuristic and unparalleled sound! There's the various foreign-infused bands like the reggae titans UB40 or the genre-fluid party animals Asian Dub Foundation that create an incomparable tapestry of sounds and experiences. There's wild cards like Wargasm UK who fuse metal and electronic elements into a wild and chaotic whirlwind of energy that is unpredictable but always a pure blast! Or stick to something more mainstream with Gorillaz, a fictional band that conquered the world with their catchy, funky style and deep lore! There's truly so much more to what this cluster of islands can offer.</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4uOhvRSCXZeDU35Hk6zCWF:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4uOhvRSCXZeDU35Hk6zCWF:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0hk7W7pQzMKL5COFDH3Msj:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0hk7W7pQzMKL5COFDH3Msj:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2o1frhZq3kQYpt59bPIk9A:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2o1frhZq3kQYpt59bPIk9A:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6J2h5PJHdY8Hjz6IKfhFZr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6J2h5PJHdY8Hjz6IKfhFZr:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2CQ3Pyy2OpRjxOM3TMqEJW:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2CQ3Pyy2OpRjxOM3TMqEJW:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1YnVYHXoak0syv4xBRHQRb:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1YnVYHXoak0syv4xBRHQRb:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:73a7l6XUdiDgtUt310OwKm:small" target="_self">spotify:track:73a7l6XUdiDgtUt310OwKm:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0Vq48evnUEqdxqVGVsdoIJ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0Vq48evnUEqdxqVGVsdoIJ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:30UBOhifGk60cuq8KAIvpU:small" target="_self">spotify:track:30UBOhifGk60cuq8KAIvpU:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0d28khcov6AiegSCpG5TuT:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0d28khcov6AiegSCpG5TuT:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4Hff1IjRbLGeLgFgxvHflk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4Hff1IjRbLGeLgFgxvHflk:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2bfGNzdiRa1jXZRdfssSzR:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2bfGNzdiRa1jXZRdfssSzR:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Well, that's all the time we have for today! I'm sure I proved my point of how wildly powerful and influential UK music has been on the world. No matter where you're form or what your tastes are, I'm confident you've had at least one of their artist that has appealed to you in some way, but perhaps until now you didn't realize just how deep this rabbit hole went. Well, now you do! I honestly have no idea what kind of air they breathe on the isles over there to keep spawning such a boundless array of brilliant music artists that enchant the entire world with their work. They've conquered the mainstream, yet also remain a fertile ground for experimentation, growth and innovation into bold new sounds. It's magical how much genius there is to appreciate. It also seems to be a recurring theme that even when many artists are seen as weird, unusual or even off-putting, they still manage to captivate audiences and find success. I find that to be a beautiful thing. Shows that even if you're an outcast, if you create amazing works, you will be recognized and celebrated. However, even this is far from the entire story! So enjoy exploring what I've given you and what the UK has blessed us, but don't forget to tune in next time for part 2, as we learn how this "heavy metal" thing was born and how one bold British idea created an entire global subculture that's unlike anything else in existence. Until then, take care of yourselves! Excelsior!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <P><A href="spotify:playlist:3TbhVTdlChXJdZcuLJO17A " target="_self">spotify:playlist:3TbhVTdlChXJdZcuLJO17A </A> </P> <P> </P> <P><A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Music-Discussion/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-The-Index/td-p/7062437" target="_blank">Check out all Blogs in The Index!</A></P> Thu, 14 May 2026 14:03:30 GMT Joan 2026-05-14T14:03:30Z JJ's Bizarre Blog #78 - Kingdom of Music Part 1 - Britannia Rules the Radiowaves https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-78-Kingdom-of-Music-Part-1-Britannia-Rules-the/ba-p/7436195 <P><span class="lia-inline-image-display-wrapper lia-image-align-inline" image-alt="Music Bogs.jpg" style="width: 400px;"><img src="https://community.spotify.com/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/207956iEB4A10163A1AA6E2/image-size/medium?v=v2&px=400" role="button" title="Music Bogs.jpg" alt="Music Bogs.jpg" /></span></P> Thu, 14 May 2026 14:03:30 GMT https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-78-Kingdom-of-Music-Part-1-Britannia-Rules-the/ba-p/7436195 Joan 2026-05-14T14:03:30Z