I believe way back "alternative" used to mean music other than the "normal" categories of rock, "disco/pop", country, classic.
I would personally say that "alternative" as a genre has, to me, always simply meant something other than what is taking place in the music mainstream. That is not to say it is the same as "indie" (or music that is released on an independent label--although the definition of that term is beginning to change too) but as one would expect, there's often a fair amount of overlap between indie and alternative.
Three examples to illustrate my classification system:
-I would considerNirvana's "Nevermind" a alternative album (at the time of its release, it had almost nothing in common with what was happening in the mainstream), but having been released and promoted via a major label, it is by definition not an indie album.
-Interpol's "Turn on the Bright Lights" album would be considered both an alternative AND indie album' as it sonically had little to do with mainstream trends at the time of its release, and it was published by famed independent label Matador Records.
-And finally, Robyn's self-titled album from 2005--at least, the original version--would be considered an indie album, but not an alternative album, because although it was self-published on the singer's own independent label, the music was in keeping with mainstream production and aesthetic values.
This is completely subjective, but I hope my explanation as to how I define and think of "alternative" music helps you arrive at your own opinion and ideas about the genre.
by The Write Life 8 years ago
Under Entertainment and Media-Music, does alternative music refer to 90's rock alternative or alternative such as world music, tribal etc. Hope I explained correctly thank's guys.
by Devin Bender 13 years ago
Who is your favorite independent band or solo artist?So let's get off the mainstream music. Who is your favorite artist that uses an independent label?
by Internetwriter62 15 years ago
Do any of you like Independent Music? Does anyone download songs that are from artists that promote their work on the internet and do gigs at local venues. I personally think it's a great alternative to the mainstream media. Less commercial and more creative. What do you think?
by BritishRock 14 years ago
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by jakecreps 13 years ago
What are a few good indie bands?
by Dorothee-Gy 11 years ago
Why are some people so ferociously attacking alternative healing methods?What is it that makes them jump on every hint that pharmaceuticals might not be the only solution?Why do they even break a sweat over the benefits or claims of natural healing methods, be it Energy Medicine or Homeopathy? Why...
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