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Sophisti-pop
Sophisti-pop is a pop music subgenre that developed during the mid-1980s out of the British new wave era. It originated with acts who blended elements of jazz, soul, and pop with lavish production.
Characteristics#
Sophisti-pop is characterized by its extensive use of electronic keyboards, synthesizers, and polished arrangements. Artists also utilized cutting-edge studio technology and perfectionist recording methods. The genre has been described as mellow, romantic, and atmospheric, with artists often adopting a sharp, well-dressed and well-groomed visual presentation.
History#
Stylus Magazine suggested that acts had been influenced by the work of Roxy Music (such as 1982’s Avalon, often cited as the first sophisti-pop album), and Bryan Ferry’s Boys and Girls (1985) and Bête Noire (1987). Sweetwater named major artists in the genre as including the Blue Nile, Prefab Sprout, the Style Council, Scritti Politti, Everything but the Girl, and Danny Wilson. Its popularity declined in the 1990s.
See also#
- List of sophisti-pop artists
- Progressive soul
- Plastic soul
- Progressive pop
- Quiet storm
External links#
*Hue and Cry noting AllMusic’s usage of the term.
- Genre family
- 1980s in music, British styles of music, New wave music, Pop music genres, Rock music genres