Chillwave

Chillwave is a genre of electronic music with its own unique characteristics and history.

Typical BPM
100-115
Mood
Nostalgic
Era
2000s
Rhythm
Laid-back, often featuring a simple, repetitive drum machine beat with a prominent snare or clap on the backbeat. Can also include syncopated synth melodies.

About

Chillwave is a subgenre of electronic dance music characterized by its dreamy, washed-out sound, often incorporating elements of 1980s synth-pop, ambient, and lo-fi aesthetics. It evokes feelings of nostalgia, summer, and hazy memories.

History

Chillwave emerged in the late 2000s, gaining popularity in the early 2010s. It arose from various online music communities, with artists sharing tracks on platforms like MySpace and music blogs. It's influenced by genres such as synth-pop, ambient, and Balearic beat. Key artists include Washed Out, Toro y Moi, Com Truise, and Neon Indian. The genre's popularity waned in the mid-2010s, but it retains a cult following and continues to influence contemporary music.