We
typically think of country, rap, folk, techno, or alternative rock when it comes
to genres of music. Most of these adapt with time and “the popular” by
incorporating tidbits of one genre into another, but overall there’s a distinct
sound to each. It’s rare for a genre of music to combine with one completely
adverse to it, but Pink Floyd’s release of their re-mastered Live in Moscow, reminds us of one style of music that did something spectacular for culture. First appearing in the 1970’s, Rock
Opera not only hybridized the two completely different genres, rock
and opera, but allowed artists to tell dramatic, meaningful narratives while
reaching an array of audiences.
It’s debatable who originated the concept of rock opera.
Stories of conception range from Bruce Cockburn and William Hawkins altering
their album, Christopher’s Movie Matinee,
to a friend of The Who, using the term to describe a comedy tape. Despite the
deliberation, The Who is noted for releasing, Tommy, the very first rock opera. Unlike normal genres, rock opera
tells a narrative throughout a sequence of songs using rock music as opposed to
classical. Unique from opera, the songs aren’t necessarily written to be
performed as productions, which is why the genre is often confused with concept
albums.
The music in a rock opera is enough to set it apart from
other genres in that it’s more dramatic. The Who was already an established
rock band, and although there are similarities between the sounds of their
previous albums and Tommy, there’s
also an audible difference. The music created in Tommy can tell a story by itself. The overture
of the album sounds more like the introduction to a rock musical, with hints of
The Who’s classic sound sporadically incorporated throughout. The melodic variation
of ranges and speed build anticipation and give listeners an insight into the
highs and lows of the story they’re about to be told.
Although the music alone gives a basic idea of what’s to
come, the words and messages behind them are arguably the most important part
of the genre. Not only is there a story unfolding, but in some cases the artist
could be trying to divulge a deeper meaning. Tommy brings light to a blind, deaf, and dumb boy who rises to fame
as a leader of a messianic movement then falls just as quickly. If we strip the
story down, it deals with the rise and fall of fame and how quickly it can be
attained and lost. The concept is particularly common in the music industry with
one hit wonders.
Conversely, Jesus
Christ Superstar is loosely based on the passion of Christ. It brings the
audience’s attention to the beliefs of God and allows them to see the story in
a new form. Considering we live in an age where more children can identify
Ronald McDonald than Jesus, the rock opera shines light on religion. It brings
Jesus into a new century and portrays him as this cool, personable man, and
gives society an entirely new concept for a rock star.
Apart from music and lyrics, one of the most unique
characteristics of rock opera is the fact it can be produced into theatrical
performances. Both Tommy, and Jesus Christ Superstar were originally
produced as rock opera albums, but due to their popularity were adapted into
plays and movies. By transforming these albums into productions, the original
message the artist meant to convey is deepened. There’s a sense of liveness
that the audience is able to experience by visualizing the story. They can
empathize with the actor’s emotions, allowing them to experience the rock opera
more profoundly.
Many artists including, David Bowie, Pink Floyd and
Genesis, followed in the footsteps of The Who in creating rock operas. The
depth and adaptability enables them to reach entirely new audiences of various
ages and interests based on the message, meaning, or sheer enjoyment of the album.
More importantly, rock opera evolved music by demonstrating how future artists
might combine unlikely genres or practices of music to create a cultural
phenomenon that can be appreciated by the masses.
Check out the rock operas below!
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