Popwave

Popwave, also known as synthwave pop, is a genre that emerged in the early 2010s, blending nostalgic 1980s synth-pop with modern production techniques. Characterized by lush synthesizer textures, driving drum machine rhythms, and soaring vocal melodies, popwave creates an atmospheric, often cinematic sound that evokes both futurism and retro aesthetics. The genre draws inspiration from 80s film soundtracks, new wave, and electronic dance music, resulting in a unique fusion of past and present. Popwave typically features emotive lyrics, often exploring themes of nostalgia, love, and urban nightlife. Its production style emphasizes reverb-drenched vocals, gated drums, and expansive synth pads, creating a dreamy, neon-lit sonic landscape. While rooted in retro elements, popwave distinguishes itself through its polished production, incorporating modern electronic music techniques and a more pop-oriented structure than its synthwave predecessor. The genre has gained a dedicated following, particularly online, and has influenced visual art, fashion, and film scores.

Latest Popwave Release
undefined album image
Perfect Girl, Wrong World
Single - Released June 27, 2025
Top Artists Spotify Logo
The Midnight
Gunship
Electric Youth
Ollie Wride
Trevor Something
FM-84
Top Playlists
Synthwave / Retro Electro 12 Popwave artists
Starcadian lust 4 Popwave artists
Gothish 2 Popwave artists
Solid Muse 2 Popwave artists
The Needle / Bangladesh 1 Popwave artist

RecentMusic users are tracking 20 Popwave artists for new releases, and have access to the full timeline of 517 releases .

Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the Popwave artists you love!

Get Started Browse Arists
  1. June 27, 2025
  2. June 6
  3. May 30
  4. May 30
  5. May 23
  6. April 22
  7. March 28
  8. March 25
  9. March 1
  10. February 28
  11. February 28
  12. February 21
  13. February 7
  14. January 24
  15. January 17
  16. January 10
  17. January 3
  18. January 2
  19. December 13, 2024
  20. December 6
  21. November 22
  22. November 20
  23. November 15
  24. November 8
  25. November 8
  26. November 1
  27. October 25
  28. October 25
  29. October 25
  30. October 4
  31. October 1
  32. September 20
  33. September 20
  34. September 13
  35. September 12
  36. September 12
  37. September 6
  38. September 5
  39. September 3
  40. August 22