Let’s talk about lofi in the Mainstream! How the Genre Has Influenced Pop Music?
About lofi music
Lofi music has its roots in underground hip-hop and was originally associated with a DIY aesthetic and low-fidelity production techniques.
In recent years, the genre has gained popularity and has slowly started to influence mainstream pop music. It is no major surprise to my point of view as the so-called “lofi sound” is characterized by its warm, mellow tones. On top of that the use of crackles, hisses, and other elements that give the music a vintage feel are becoming essential part of many music if it is to be sold. Which is part of todays pop music.
In this article, I try to explore how lofi’s signature production techniques and aesthetic have made their way into mainstream pop music. Essentially it is based on my assumptions and desktop research. I will further go into discussing specific examples of lofi-influenced tracks and finally cover the impact they have had on the wider music industry.
Sampling is essential
One of the key characteristics of lofi music is its use of sampling. The genre’s early pioneers used sampling as a way to create their own unique sound, often borrowing from jazz and soul records to create their beats.
In recent years, the use of sampling has become more widespread in mainstream pop music. I can mention artists such as Drake, Kanye West, and many others using samples in their tracks.
These artists have helped to popularize the lofi sound, and have introduced it to a wider audience.
Effects used by lofi artists
Another important element of the lofi sound is its use of distortion and saturation.
Lofi producers often use tape machines, vintage hardware, and other analog equipment to add warmth and character to their tracks. Lately, more and more free (and paid) VSTs are also available to imitate this vibe with your DAW.
This gives the music a vintage feel, and helps to create a sense of nostalgia. This type of distortion has become more common in mainstream pop music. I could mention artists like Billie Eilish and Post Malone using distortion to add texture to their tracks.
One example of a lofi-influenced track in mainstream pop music is “Bad Guy” according to many lofi related blogs. Give it a spin and let me know what do you think?
After listening you may have noticed that the song features a distorted bassline and drum track. They are to gives the song a lofi feel.
This song also includes samples of a dentist’s drill (I read it in a blog lol). The aim was to add to the unsettling and eerie vibe of the song.
Of course it is needless to add that “Bad Guy” was a commercial success. It reached the top of the charts in several countries, and won several awards, including the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
At the end I am almost safe to state that the song’s success helped to introduce the genre to a wider audience. It has also helped to inspire other artists to experiment with similar production techniques.
More lofi examples in pop music
Another example of a lofi-influenced track in mainstream pop music is “Circles” by Post Malone.
The song features a melancholy guitar riff, which is processed with distortion and other effects to give it a lofi feel. Use of melancholic samples (guitar and piano riffs) is often loved by lofi hip-hop beats. Though it will not make it lofi-ish alone. However the track also features a sparse drum track. It is kind of a drum programming often used in lofi hip-hop.
“Circles” was again a commercial success. It reached the top of the charts in several countries, and was certified multi-platinum in the United States.
The song’s success helped to establish Post Malone as one of the leading artists in today’s pop music world. Most likely he has also inspired other artists to experiment with similar production techniques.
In conclusion, the lofi sound has had a significant influence on mainstream pop music in recent years. You can find more and more examples for that.
The genre’s signature production techniques and aesthetic have been adopted by a wide range of artists, and have helped to create a new subgenre of pop music. Hopefully for good!
The lofi sound’s use of sampling, distortion, and other effects has helped to create a sense of nostalgia and warmth, which has resonated with listeners around the world.
As the popularity of lofi music continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how it continues to influence the wider music industry.