After coming to the forefront of the music industry in the late 1940s, rock music has since been integrated into successful digital sectors to enhance its modern-day popularity. While there have long been discussions over whether the genre itself is slowly being phased out as the music industry continues to adapt to social changes, it appears unquestionable that rock and roll still has the credentials to thrive in the foreseeable future.
As a result, we’re going to look at the genre’s gaming connection, while also analyzing how it has evolved to stay relevant.
Gaming Connection
For many, many years, playable music titles, which focus predominantly on the rock genre, have been developed across a range of different consoles. Although it was released back in 2003, Amplitude was one of the earliest releases that allowed for a player-controlled digital rock experience. In addition to creating and publishing Amplitude, Harmonix also sought to expand the possibilities to allow for multiplayer gaming and did so with their 2007 title, Rock Band. Through providing drums, a guitar and a microphone within the original set, gamers could immerse themselves in over 2,000 songs due to the downloadable library that was available through the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 adaptations.
Following the success of the 2007 version, Harmonix eventually released Rock Band 4 on the next generation consoles back in 2015. While the premise of the game remains much the same, it’s development onto contemporary platforms demonstrates the genre’s ability to evolve and succeed in any era. Moreover, aside from the traditional gaming sector, the iGaming market has also developed several slot games around iconic rock stars. Along with the Ozzy Osbourne title available at popular online casino NetBet, there’s also the five-reel Jimi Hendrix slot which includes the rock legend’s music in the background, while the purple haze free spin feature assists in capturing a nostalgic 1960’s music vibe.
How Contemporary Changes Have Affected the Genre and Music Creation
Over the last few years, the increase in streaming platforms has resulted in numerous artists altering how they go about producing their music. Much like in other markets where digital alternatives have negatively impacted upon traditional foundations, in the music industry there has been a decline in album purchases. With newly-developed services like Apple Music and Spotify, listeners are actively able to create their own playlists, which some argue disregards the carefully constructed nature of complete album narratives.
Moreover, the payment structure which surrounds digital services is also influencing the construction of new music. In years gone by, artists were paid by album or singles sales, whereas, in modern-day society, plays which surpass the 30-second mark equate to one stream listen, and thus hold monetary value. Additionally, musicians are adopting short introductions and repetitive hooks to secure stream listens, which is a distinct change from song formats when rock music was at its peak.
Despite Change, There’s a Place for Rock
As mentioned above, there are many variables which have altered the foundations of modern-day music, but, even in spite of that, the rock genre continues to find a place within society. For as long as gaming platforms remain popular, creations such as Rock Band and the Jimi Hendrix slot are going to have the foundations to succeed within an ever-changing society.
