How Rock Music is Making an Impact in 2023
Captivating audiences with memorable guitar riffs, dynamic drumming, melodic hooks, and energetic basslines
Rock music has always been a powerful force in the music industry, captivating listeners with its energetic and distinctive sound. In 2023, rock music continues to make an impact, captivating audiences with its memorable guitar riffs, dynamic drumming, melodic hooks, energetic basslines, raw and distorted guitars, anthemic choruses, and dynamic shifts.
Take a ride with me to explore these elements and highlight some noteworthy rock songs that embody them.
Music Submissions are accepted on AVA Live Radio
Check out all the newest rock music on our playlist
Powerful Guitar Riffs
Rock music is renowned for its memorable guitar riffs that serve as the foundation of a song. These catchy, energetic, and distinctive guitar parts drive the song forward, creating a sense of intensity and excitement.
Talk about getting down and dirty, ‘Monkey’ is the song of summer you need to hear. The Shameless Band presents the first single off their second EP Less Is More Vol.2. The song titled Monkey is the first song ever written, arranged, and collaborated by all members of the band. A mid tempo guitar and organ rocker that really drives, and also delivers a powerful message of being in the grip of addiction which is better known as the “monkey on your back.” Buckle up, Buttercup — this ain’t no kiddy ride. The next stop is Monkey.
When a powerful guitar riff becomes the hook of the song, you have to take note. You can’t help but get caught up in this adictive ’Sweet Like Sugar’ energy by Jesse Ray and The Carolina Catfish. Sweet Like Sugar is the first single from the upcoming new album from Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish “Sick-N-Tired. This two piece blues, rockabilly, Americana band from Grand Rapids, MI is made up of Jesse Ray on Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica and Paul Jensen on drums. The band is known for their lively rock shows and extremely excellent musicianship.
Another strong example of a band that excels with powerful guitar riffs is Ridgewood. Their second song on their New EP ‘Hokie’ opens with a memorable guitar hook that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. This four piece punk band founded in Wilmington North Carolina is a band to know.
Dynamic Drumming
The rhythmic foundation of a rock song is often created by the drums, with impactful drumming adding a strong groove and driving the song’s energy.
Alternative rock band SAMSARA showcases the power of dynamic drumming in their new single ‘411’. The drummer’s skillful and powerful playing elevates the song, working in harmony with the guitarist and vocalist to create a truly memorable experience.
Melodic Hooks
Memorable melodies and hooks are essential components of rock songs. Whether it’s a catchy vocal melody, a mesmerizing guitar solo, or an instrumental hook, these elements stick in your head and make the song unforgettable.
I’m always looking for people who are slipping outside of the box to take what they’re good at and make some thing energetic and fun with those unique dynamic blends. Ryan Morrissette comes to mind especially because he’s taking several styles and blending them in a fresh way that leads with a very strong melodic hook. This is the perfect blend of Rock, Hip hop and Edm with a hard hitting sound that commands attention.
She Made Me Do It, a London-based alternative rock band, demonstrates this with their song ‘Free Again’. Its melodic and mysterious blend of influences hooks listeners and leaves them singing along.
Energetic Basslines
The bass guitar plays a crucial role in rock music, providing depth and richness to the song’s overall sound alongside the drums. Paying attention to driving and melodic basslines can truly enhance one’s appreciation of rock music. It adds a layer of complexity that elevates the song.
The drummer and base really add to the driving energy of the single ‘No Luv’ by Sans.Anthonyyy. I think that’s just one important element that makes this song so impactful.
Raw and Distorted Guitars
The raw and aggressive sound of electric guitars is a hallmark of rock music. The use of distortion, power chords, and gritty guitar solos brings intensity and passion to the forefront.
Aaron’s powerful anthem ‘If I Could I Would’ perfectly exemplifies this, with its heavy baseline and raw guitars. This song encourages listeners to embrace their dreams, despite the risks involved.
Anthemic Choruses
Many rock songs feature anthemic choruses that invite listener participation. These catchy and sing-along sections often become the most memorable parts of the song.
Ontario-based Alternative Indie Rock Band Vacant Space, existing between the sounds of punk and alternative rock with pop sensibilities, creates an infectious and anthemic chorus that resonates with audiences.
Another such song with an anthemic chorus that you can’t stay away from is ‘Game Boy’ by CMagic5. At only 17, Cmagic5 is a young emerging high-octane and soulful Canadian vocal artist from Toronto. Cmagic5’s music is contemporary pop with a rock attitude that offers a refreshing blend of conventional sounds and futuristic vibes. Her soul-shattering vocals have the power to evoke a profound response
The Refusers’ latest single, ‘Propaganda,’ is a new kind of American Anthem creating a socially conscious Rock punk alternative movement. The band’s socially conscious message has sparked controversy and praise, but their diehard fans continue to follow their lead. The Refusers are leading a movement against propaganda and fighting the good fight on behalf of humanity.
Dynamic Shifts
Dynamic shifts in intensity are a common feature in rock songs. Moving from softer, introspective verses to explosive and energetic choruses or instrumental sections adds depth and emotional impact. These shifts contribute to the overall structure of the song, creating a captivating listening experience. Exploring different eras and sub-genres within the rock genre allows for a more comprehensive understanding of its diverse sounds.
When we talk about dynamic shifts, Fab Manzini Music has a clear win with new instrumental rock single ‘The Waters’. This chill guitar track is brilliant with a melodic and emotional energy that captures your heart. For musicians the skill is on the next level but the over all track is our honey.
All these wonderful tracks are now playing on AVA Live Radio http://www.avaliveradio.com/radio
In 2023, rock music continues to thrive with its engaging and informative sonic characteristics. From the powerful guitar riffs of Ridgewoods, to the dynamic drumming of SAMSARA, the melodic hooks of She Made Me Do It, the energetic basslines, raw and distorted guitars, anthemic choruses from Vacant Space, and the dynamic shifts found throughout the genre, rock music remains a powerful force in the music industry. Embracing the various subgenres and exploring different eras within rock music provides an enriching and comprehensive listening experience. So turn up the volume and let the impact of rock music captivate your senses.
*Music Submissions are accepted on AVA Live Radio
*If you liked this article you can follow me on Medium.
