The genre’s origins can be traced back to the first progressive bands like Pink Floyd, Procol Harum, Soft Machine, and Yes. Early prog artists were influenced by the psychedelic rock and jazz fusion of the late 1960s and drew on those genres for inspiration.
What Is Progressive Rock?
Initially termed “progressive pop”, the style was an outgrowth of psychedelic bands who abandoned standard pop traditions in favor of instrumentation and compositional techniques more frequently associated with jazz, folk, or classical music.
Some examples include symphonic keyboard parts played by Keith Emerson of Emerson, Lake & Palmer; Syd Barrett-influenced guitar playing by David Gilmour of Pink Floyd; and vocal harmonies from Yes, all of which were common features found in progressive rock songs.
Although progressive rock is not easily defined, it may be described as having a high level of instrumental technique and compositional complexity. The genre often features odd time signatures, lush arrangements, and extended pieces.
With its focus on instrumental technique and composition rather than simple song structures, progressive rock is arguably considered both an artistic movement and a musical genre within popular music today.
A Brief History of Progressive Rock
It’s characterized by complex song structures, long songs and extended instrumental passages. It also uses electronic instruments such as synthesizers and tape loops, which is why it’s sometimes called symphonic rock or art rock (an even more obscure term).
Characteristics of Progressive Rock
At its core, Progressive Rock is a very experimental form of music. Its main trademark features include:
- The use of unusual time signatures, meters and key signatures;
- Long compositions with complex arrangements;
- Orchestrated or symphonic arrangements;
- Lyrics which often have a fantasy or science fiction theme;
- Use of non-rock instruments like the Mellotron and the ondes Martenot.
What are Examples of Progressive Rock?
So, whether you’re a fan of the Beatles or Billy Joel and are interested in learning more about the history of Prog Rock or just want to explore some more challenging music, here’s your chance. Start here for the best examples of each:
- The Beatles
- The Moody Blues
- Pink Floyd
What is the Difference Between Rock and Progressive Rock?
This influence was reflected in the musical themes of the time, which often included space travel, intergalactic warfare, or explorations of otherworldly dimensions and realities.
Progressive rock first gained mainstream popularity in the late 1960s with bands like Pink Floyd and Rush leading the way, but it was also popularized by artists like Genesis, Yes, King Crimson, and Emerson Lake & Palmer. Some have even considered these groups to be prog-rock’s “Big Five”.
It has even evolved into some other forms of contemporary music; for instance, Styx’s “Come Sail Away” (1977), while being a notable example of prog-rock during its era, is still heard regularly on classic hits radio stations today.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has at least given you some starting points, and that you’ll start exploring more prog-rock bands soon.
