Synthwave music is a type of electronic-based music that gained popularity in the 2000s. It draws inspiration from the melodies created by synthesizers. In sci-fi movies, iconic TV shows, and musical genres like New Wave from the 1980s. Sometimes referred to as Retrowave or Outrun Synthwave music features instruments and drum machine beats.
Several popular games such as Hotline Miami, Far Cry 3; Blood Dragon, Neon Drive, and even Grand Theft Auto V (with some contributions by Tangerine Dream who influenced the synthwave genre) have previously incorporated Synthwave music into their soundtracks.
Did you know @RockstarGames was looking for synthwave music for GTA 6?
What do you think of this synthwave track “I Can’t Wait”?https://t.co/27ld89jFyA
— FIREMAN (@FIREMANmedia) February 17, 2023
Rumors and speculation about which music will be featured in GTA 6 have been circulating. Inverse reports that Pete Brian Rice, a Synthwave musician claimed that representatives associated with Rockstar Games had approached synthwave artists regarding a radio station within GTA 6. Given that Synthwave is heavily linked to films and video games from the 1980s.
The GTA series has gained recognition, for its collection of music genres that grace the games radio stations. The selection of music is carefully curated to create an atmosphere capturing the essence of moods, eras, and locations.
Within the GTA games, you’ll find an assortment of hip-hop stations that cater to styles. Some notable ones include West Coast Classics, Radio Los Santos, and The Beat 102.7.
What’s your favourite Radio Station from GTA: San Andreas? #GTASA pic.twitter.com/tpW36OghLF
— Rockstar Universe (@RStarUniverse) July 30, 2023
Rock music has always had a presence in the GTA series. Stations like Liberty Rock Radio, Radio X, and Los Santos Rock Radio showcase a mix of hits and contemporary rock tracks. To add diversity to the experience country music stations have also been incorporated into GTA games. Rebel Radio and K Rose are, among the stations that bring country tunes to gamer’s ears.
However, it’s worth mentioning that there hasn’t been an announcement, for GTA 6 so the accuracy of these rumors remains uncertain
What are some characteristics of synthwave music?
Most songs in Synthwave music heavily rely on synthesizers as the instrument, creating the retro sound often associated with this genre.
Synthwave tracks frequently feature drum machine beats that resemble analog drum machines, adding an energetic element to the music.
Powerful basslines, one of the defining features of synthwave music, can sometimes carry a sounding quality. Musicians typically create these basslines using analog gear or virtual instruments, contributing to the music’s atmosphere.
Most synthwave tracks fall within a BPM range of 80 to 110 reflecting the paced nature. Inspired by action-packed films, TV shows, and video games associated with this genre.
Synthwave music aims to capture the atmosphere of the 1980s. It draws inspiration from aspects of 80s culture such as movies, video games, and art to recreate both sounds and aesthetics reminiscent of that era. It’s worth noting that there may be variations and subgenres, within synthwave that incorporate elements.