I would like to add that prog rock often draws from classical, jazz, and
world music influences, many times uses extended structures like in
orchestral music (suites, etc., more so than classical symphonic
form...), many times uses mixed meters, and usually requires some
highly disciplined chops to execute.
Rock music without LIMITATIONS...... in other words, not having the goal
of necessarily trying to hit the top 40 with a 3 minute tune with all
the clich¨¦s of the month to get the attention of the A&R "suits" to sign
them and then dictate what they should be doing by stifling their
creativity after receiving the coveted record deal.
(the last paragraph is just IMO......although I think there is more than
a bit of truth in it.)
I would assume that the attitude is as far as hit making, other than the
obvious financial rewards of that.......if it happens, fine, but for the
most part I think prog rock musicians approach music for music's
sake........ until of course they they finally get that hit and and
simply want to keep on the charts (example 80's Yes and Genesis,
although I like even most of their "popish" prog, too, though "Owner of
a Lonely Heart" isn't "Close to the Edge" and "That's All" isn't
"Watcher of the Skies" by ANY stretch)
Linda
Chris Clifton wrote:
Hi Jeff,
Given that any musical genre is almost impossible to categorically
define.
There will always be some music that defies any arbitrary rules.
"Prog Rock" is typically characterised by a strong rhythmic riff or
motif
throughout the song, and long improvised solos by any or all members
of the
band. The best way to find out is to listen to some of the bands that
have
been mentioned in this thread. I'm sure that there must be many MP3
tracks
available on the web of these bands
Chris Clifton
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