Compare the Difference Between Similar Terms

Difference Between Emo and Indie

Emo vs Indie
 

As Emo and Indie are music genres that came about in the same  period, 1980s, knowing the difference between Emo and indie and how they originated may be of interest to music fanatics. Emo and indie came into fruition because musicians felt the need to be in another direction from that of mainstream music. There is no doubt that emo and indie music are two of the most appealing genres of music of today’s youth. These two genres, Emo and indie also more or less reflect the musicians’, and their followers’, lifestyle. They are both expressive, creative and original, which is what most teenagers want to be. They focus on the music and lyrics, which, unfortunately, most of today’s mainstream music tends to forego in favor of catchy tunes and mass appeal. 

What is Emo?

Emo is a rock sub-genre that is famous for its melodic musicianship and very expressive lyrics. It started in the mid-1980s in Washington DC as an offshoot of hardcore punk.It was known then as emotional hardcore or emocore. In the 1990s, its sound and meaning has changed, blending in pop punk with indie rock. By 2000, it eventually broke into mainstream culture.

What is Indie?

Indie or indie rock is a sub-genre of alternative rock that started in the UK and the US in the 1980s. Most think that indie is used to describe any music that is made by artists working inside the network of independent record labels and the numerous underground music scenes. However, some would argue that it is actually a unique genre of rock music that emphasizes on artistry while others think that it is actually a mix of both.

What is the difference between Emo and Indie?

Though both, Emo and Indie are expressive and creative, Emo mostly talks about the emotional trials and conflicts that one goes through, and it is more of an outlet for these sentiments. Indie, on the other hand, is more of an expression of artistry, where the musician focuses on the creativity with music and is less concerned with popularity or trends. These two genres also started a fashion trend in their followers: emo with its predominantly black skin-tight outfits and flamboyant hairstyles, while indie is more vibrant in color, like orange or yellow, and tend to focus more on the comfort of the wearer and a messy professional look. 

Summary:

Emo vs Indie

• Emo is a rock sub-genre that is melodious and expressive.

• Indie is a sub-genre of alternative rock that is not with mainstream record labels. 

• Emo mostly talks about emotional trials and conflicts.

• Indie focuses on the musician’s creativity rather than popular trends.

• Emo and Indie also created fashion trends; Emo is famous for its predominantly black outfits and hairstyles.

• Indie is also a fashion statement, going for more vibrant colors compared to Emo, and a messier or rugged, yet comfortable choice of clothing.

 

Photos By: MartScottAustinTX (CC BY-SA 2.0), Cesar Santiago Molina (CC BY 2.0)