Melodic Rock came into prominence in the glam 80s. The AOR scene is often associated with melodic rock bands. This article brings to light a comprehensive list of the best melodic rock songs.
While the AOR scene started to find the light in the late 70s, it was the dawn of the 80s that sprung a plethora of pathways for stadium acts. Melodic rock is often used as an umbrella term to describe melodically structured rock songs in various rock genres. With technological breakthroughs, the sound of rock bands evolved in a new direction in the 80s. New studio recording techniques emerged in the 80s adding new dimension to sound.
How Melodic Rock Came into Prominence
Album Oriented Rock which sprung forth from the progressive scene in the 70s became an excessively popular format in the 80s and 90s. FM radio stations promoted album tracks of rock bands and solo artists in a big way. The sophisticated and polished rock sounds that emerged in the early 80s contributed significantly towards the popularity of AOR formats.
Many rock bands in the 80s added aesthetic value to melody through musical interplay.
The melodic aspect in rock songs in the 80s and 90s was resurrected to dizzy heights propelled by sublime guitar solos in songs. Acoustic guitar intros in songs became hugely popular with hair metal bands. A number of rock bands incorporated melodic rock in their musical styles and helped shape new rock genres.
Melodic Rock and its associated Formats
Melodic rock is often associated with formats such as rock ballads, soft rock, slow rock, classic rock and power ballads. Aside from playing singles, radio stations also started promoting longer tracks from rock albums thereby contributing towards increased album sales of bands rather than just compilation album sales. Melodic rock songs are associated with passion and nostalgia, and it all makes perfect sense when you get down to listening to your favourite tracks.
Many rock bands in the 80s and 90s gained prominence because of airplay on radio stations. Also, music television stations, MTV in particular helped bands reach a new level, thanks to their various segments featuring classic rock and melodic rock. Aside from bands in the US and UK, a large number of bands from Europe emerged bringing a new sound in melodic rock. The power metal genre drew heavily from melodic rock weaving an ethereal sound.
While melodic rock has been prevalent since the emergence of rock, it was the 80s that generically brought about the true essence and meaning of the format. Melodic rock songs of the 70s, 80s and 90s have inspired a new breed of musicians. Melodic rock can only get bigger and find a larger audience in the years ahead. Long live melodic rock!
The space below showcases an epic list of Melodic rock songs
100 Greatest Melodic Rock Songs
The 80s and 90s were awe inspiring decades for romanticism and lyrics in various genres. Dwell in an epic list of rock love songs from that unforgettable era.
The adventure genre is hugely popular with movie fans in India. Captivating moments with edge of the seat entertainment forms an integral part of the Hindi film industry.
The groove or lyrics of certain Bollywood songs get stuck in your head instantaneously. You realize you’ve liked a song when you subconsciously hum the tune or sing the lyrics of the song.