80年代のキラキラ産業ロックでもエディ・ヴァン・ヘイレンのギターは評価しなきゃいけないみたいな風潮あるでしょ
There's a prevailing sentiment that even within the glitzy 80s 'corporate rock' scene, Eddie Van Halen's guitar playing stands out as an undeniable exception worthy of distinct appreciation.
This opinion has sparked online discussions, delving into the complexities of evaluating the overall musicality of that era versus the individual technical prowess of specific players.
Various voices are contributing to this nuanced debate, highlighting the enduring impact of his artistry amid commercial trends.
Related Keywords
Corporate Rock
"Corporate Rock" refers to a style of rock music that was prominent primarily from the late 1970s to the 1980s. It often denotes the music of rock bands, particularly in the United States, that was produced under the strong guidance of major record labels with a keen focus on commercial success. Characterized by sophisticated production, catchy melodies, and excellent musicianship, representative bands include Journey, TOTO, and Boston. This term sometimes carried negative connotations, being criticized for prioritizing marketability over musicality or lacking individuality. However, its high performance quality, meticulously constructed arrangements, and widely appealing pop sensibility contributed significantly to the development of the music industry, resulting in numerous multi-million selling albums. From today's perspective, its technical prowess and songwriting perfection are being re-evaluated, and it is increasingly discussed in different contexts such as "AOR (Adult Oriented Rock)." In the context of this article, it refers to 80s commercial rock in general, serving as a starting point for discussing how Eddie Van Halen's guitar playing is positioned within it.
Eddie Van Halen
Edward Lodewijk Van Halen (1955 - 2020) was a Dutch-American rock guitarist who rose to fame as the guitarist for the globally renowned band Van Halen. His innovative guitar playing revolutionized the norms of rock guitar since his debut in the late 1970s, profoundly influencing countless subsequent guitarists. In particular, his developed and popularized "two-hand tapping" technique enabled incredibly fast and fluid phrases previously unimaginable on the guitar, quickly becoming his hallmark. Eddie's playing was not merely about virtuosic skill; it combined original harmonics, tricky expressions using the whammy bar, and above all, a melodic sensibility and groove that was deeply soulful. His sound was also characterized by the distinctive tone produced from his modified guitars and amplifiers, and his sound-crafting became a model for many guitarists. Even during the peak of 80s "corporate rock," his technique and musicality stood out. He was a rare artist who achieved commercial success while retaining artistic and innovative integrity, continuing to receive high praise across genres. His passing sent shockwaves through the rock world, reaffirming his immense greatness.
"Glitzy" (Pop Elements)
The expression "Glitzy" (キラキラ) primarily refers to the bright, glamorous, and sometimes hedonistic atmosphere associated with 1980s music, especially pop and rock. During this era, the dramatic evolution and widespread adoption of synthesizers gave the overall sound a bright and opulent impression. The introduction of drum machines and sampling techniques also advanced, leading to more refined music production with a clear yet rich sound becoming mainstream. Furthermore, the launch of MTV (1981) accelerated the visual aspect of music, making dazzling fashion, flamboyant hairstyles, and music videos with intricate storylines and special effects indispensable for artist image formation. The music itself emphasized catchy melodies and memorable chorus lines, increasing its mass appeal. Traces of disco sounds and strong influences from R&B were also reflected, fostering extensive cross-genre collaborations. This "glitzy" feel was closely linked to the economic boom of the bubble economy and the thriving youth culture of the time. While some criticized it as a symbol of superficiality and commercialism, it also inspired many with dreams and hope, bringing positive energy. Today, this unique "glitzy" quality is often re-evaluated as a form of retro-futurism.