Shoegaze Meaning and Definition
Shoegaze
Pronunciation
/ˈʃoʊɡeɪz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A subgenre of indie rock music characterized by its dreamy, swirling soundscapes, distorted guitars, and introspective lyrics, often associated with the early 1990s music scene in the United Kingdom.
Examples
- The shoegaze band My Bloody Valentine is known for their innovative use of reverb and distortion.
- The album “Loveless” by My Bloody Valentine is considered a masterpiece of the shoegaze genre.
Synonyms
- Indie Rock
Antonyms
- New Wave
- Punk Rock
Etymology
The term “Shoegaze” originated in the 1990s British music press, referring to the tendency of the musicians in the genre to focus on their shoes while performing due to the intense nature of the music and the complexity of their haircuts.
Additional Information
Shoegaze music is characterized by its use of fuzz pedals, distortion, and reverb to create a dreamy, swirling sound. The genre is often associated with the British music scene of the 1990s, particularly in London and Reading. Bands like My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, and Ride are considered pioneers of the genre.
Usage Notes
Shoegaze is often used to describe a specific sound or aesthetic, rather than a rigid musical genre. It is often used in discussions of music, fashion, and culture from the 1990s.
Cultural References
- The film “Trainspotting” features a shoegaze-inspired soundtrack.
- Shoegaze has been referenced in TV shows like “The Ditty Bops” and “The Goldbergs.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Shoegaze revival” refers to the revitalization of the genre in the 2000s.
Related Words or Phrases
- Indie Rock
- Punk Rock
- Noise Pop
Collocations
- Shoegaze band
- Shoegaze album
- Shoegaze fan
Frequency of Use
Shoegaze is a relatively niche term, with a moderate level of usage in music and cultural discussions.
Common Misspellings
- Shoegizer
- Shoegizer