Dream pop facts for kids

Dream pop is a type of alternative rock music. It started in the United Kingdom in the middle of the 1980s. This music style focuses on the singer's unique, dreamy sounds and feelings.

The main musical instruments used in dream pop are the guitar, bass, drums, and synthesizers. A related music style called Shoegaze is often seen as a type of dream pop. The record company 4AD is well-known for releasing dream pop music. Some famous dream pop bands include My Bloody Valentine, Cocteau Twins, and Mazzy Star.

What is Dream Pop?

Dream pop is a subgenre of alternative rock. This means it's a smaller, more specific type of alternative rock. It became popular in the mid-1980s. The music often sounds like a dream.

How it Sounds

Dream pop music is known for its "ethereal" sound. This means it sounds very light, airy, and sometimes mysterious. It often creates a special mood or feeling for the listener. The songs usually have a soft, hazy quality.

Main Instruments

Bands that play dream pop use several key instruments.

• Guitars: Often played with effects to create swirling, layered sounds.
• Bass: Provides a steady, deep rhythm.
• Drums: Usually played softly, sometimes with echoes.
• Synthesizers: Used to add dreamy textures and melodies.

Where Did it Start?

Dream pop began in the United Kingdom. It grew out of other music styles. These included alternative rock and neo-psychedelia. Neo-psychedelia is a modern form of psychedelic music.

Key Time Period

The mid-1980s was when dream pop first appeared. It continued to grow in popularity through the 1990s. Many bands from this time helped define the sound.

Famous Bands and Labels

Several bands and a record label are strongly linked to dream pop.

Important Bands

• Cocteau Twins: Known for their unique vocals and layered sounds.
• My Bloody Valentine: Famous for their loud, distorted guitars.
• Mazzy Star: Popular for their calm, melancholic songs.

The 4AD Record Label

4AD is a record company that released many important dream pop albums. They helped many bands become famous. Their sound became very recognizable.

Related Music Styles

Dream pop is connected to other music genres.

Shoegaze

Shoegaze is a style very similar to dream pop. It often has loud, distorted guitars. The name "shoegaze" came from how musicians looked. They often stared at their feet (and their guitar pedals) while playing.

• [ Allmusic entry on dream pop]

See also

In Spanish: Dream pop para niños