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The 1975 are an English pop-rock band that are heavily focused in the indie/alternative genre. The band is known for its variety of instruments used to produce an eccentric sound. Some of their tracks are reminiscent of '80s pop, as they utilise mixing and synths. Others incorporate elements of jazz explored with a saxophone. Lead singer, Matty Healy, often provides political and social commentary through his lyrics accompanied by a contrasting upbeat melody. For example, 'Looking For Somebody (To Love)' (The 1975, 2022), is a song with a cheerful syncopated melody with lyrics that depict the aftermath of a shooting. I find their songs’ production and the teamwork behind them to be profoundly interesting.

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On multiple occasions, The 1975 has credited the '80s, radio and film soundtracks to be a major influence for their projects. Whilst being interviewed about their connection to '80s music, Healy stated “All our favourite artists, like Peter Gabriel, Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, were at their peak in the '80s. (TimeOut, 2016). He continued  “When we talked about stylising our songs, the instrumentation and production ideas came from late-'80s records. There's a synergy here of '80s-style production and modern pop music.” (TimeOut, 2016). A publication from 1997 that still rings true today, reinforces that sentiment by answering the question “Why is '80s music so popular?” stating “namely nostalgia”. (Buchanan, 1997). Healy acknowledged how producer and drummer for the band, George Daniel is fond of the notorious heavy drums used frequently in the '80s, evident in a comparison between 'The City' (The 1975, 2013) and 'Red Rain' (Peter Gabriel, 1986).

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During an interview with NME, Healy discussed how Michael Jackson was the first show he ever attended, at only 7 years old. (NME, 2022, 3:53). For Healy, this was a life-changing experience. “When I’d seen Michael Jackson in real life, I was like woah, that's a real superstar.” (NME, 2022, 4:11). This admiration for his idol would ultimately inspire Healy’s ambition to perform. Deeming the pop legend as the first artist he’d ever fallen in love with, Healy looked up to Jackson and the unforgettable presence he brought to the stage, even adopting some of his famous dance moves. Healy revealed to The Times that he felt comfortable straying from the behaviours of rock icons and that Michael inspired him to be different when it came to music (Moran, 2018).

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In an interview with Pitchfork, lead singer of The 1975, Matty Healy, discussed his fascination with ambient music. “The whole idea of ambient music is the engine of our band—that’s what we make first and then we decide to add rhythm or whatever it may be.” (Dombal, 2020). The person responsible for sparking this interest is British musician, Brian Eno. Healy explained "Listening to Eno's early ambient work was the most formative experience that I’ve had with music.”(Dombal, 2020). A specific example of the influence Eno has had on their work can be heard when comparing Eno’s 'An Ending (Ascent)' (Brian Eno, 1983) with 'If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know)' (The 1975, 2020). The angelic disposition of Eno’s work is mirrored in the beginning of 'If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know)', with a gradual build of ethereal melodies as the guitar comes in, opening the song. The intricate composition creates a heavenly atmosphere, setting the audience up to experience the song how the band intended. When discussing music for films, The 1975 producer George Daniel stated the band appreciates “the way it could command you to feel.” (TimeOut, 2016), much like ambient music.

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The Arctic Monkeys are a rock band, specifically garage, and alternative rock. The band mainly utilizes guitar, drums, and the notable vocals of lead singer Alex Turner. The majority of their songs tell a story through the use of metaphors and euphemisms. Formed in Sheffield, England, many of their tracks are a social commentary on the area with songs like 'When the Sun Goes Down' (Arctic Monkeys, 2006) describing the delinquents who tend to come out at night. Their songs often vary in tempo and all create a unique atmosphere without straying from their memorable sound. I consider the combination of rock and storytelling to be dynamic and empowering.

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Known for their bittersweet, occasionally rowdy tracks, Oasis had influenced all members of the Arctic Monkeys from a young age. Frontman Turner reminisced on their admiration for their predecessors, stating in an interview that as teenagers “We ‘played’ some tennis rackets and pretended to be Oasis. We were just standing there, doing what Oasis did onstage.” (Pitchfork, 2012). The initial spark Oasis ignited in the group remains, continuing to inspire them today. Turner went on to say that he and his bandmates still listen to 'Morning Glory' (Oasis, 1995), one of their favourite Oasis tracks, whilst in their dressing rooms (Pitchfork, 2012). Both bands have referred to the significant influence of The Kinks with members of Oasis, Noel and Liam Gallagher, declaring Ray Davies as the “Godfather of Brit-pop.”(Spellman, 2018).

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Known as “The most iconic rock band of their era” and “A symbol of intelligent protest and stylish rebellion” (Gilbert, n.d.), the overarching influence of The Clash would be unavoidable for a band such as the Arctic Monkeys. In an interview with NPR, esteemed music critic and editor for The Rolling Stone, Christian Hoard, discussed how the Arctic Monkeys came together with a shared love for Oasis and The Clash. (Hoard, 2006). Upon listening to their Album, 'Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I Am Not' (Arctic Monkeys, 2006), Hoard stated “You can hear the anthemic energy of The Clash.” (Hoard, 2006). Alex Turner sought that rousing nature of defiance as his muse. The songwriter reinforced this sentiment stating “With Oasis, it's just that attitude, like it's resistant against everything else that's going on in music.” (Dombal, 2012). The Clash, Oasis and The Kinks alike, all shared a non-conforming, ungovernable approach to music, evidently becoming a catalyst for the Arctic Monkeys.

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'You Really Got Me' (The Kinks, 1964) had a revolutionary impact on the brit-rock scene upon its release in 1964. Written by Ray Davies, accompanied by his brother Dave on guitar, the song was “Fuelled by Dave’s aggressive, outrageous guitar sound” and “..has since been cited as the inspiration for garage rock, punk, heavy metal..” (Spellman, 2018). With both predominantly in the garage-rock genre, It’s easy to hear a resemblance of The Kinks in the Arctic Monkeys’ work, especially in their application of instruments. A comparison of 'All Day and All of the Night' (The Kinks, 1964) and 'Potion Approaching' (Arctic Monkeys, 2009) displays a noticeable similarity between the guitar introductions. However, inspiration was not only drawn from instrumentation but also lyrically. In an interview with Pitchfork music publication, primary songwriter for the Arctic Monkeys, Alex Turner, mentioned that upon listening to the album 'Face to Face' (The Kinks, 1966), he “started to appreciate Ray Davies’ storytelling” (Dombal, 2012).

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As a solo artist, Harry Styles combines the genres of pop, rock, and alternative music. His songs incorporate acoustic or electric guitar, occasional piano and mainly focus on his vocal abilities. Though he is known for his isolated vocals, layering can be heard in many of his songs, often used to convey a particular emotion. For example, in 'Daydreaming' (Harry Styles, 2022, 0:20) his voice is layered to mimic a feeling of euphoria as if he is caught up in a pleasant daydream. Styles is known to travel to acquire inspiration for his projects, frequently drawing from personal experiences referred to in his lyrics. I enjoy the enthusiasm and expression of his work. It’s evident that he uses music to relate to an audience and has genuine fun producing art, a sentiment I can appreciate and also find inspiring.

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Though the two are good friends now, Styles' admiration for Stevie Nicks dates back to his earliest years. He gave insight into his upbringing, telling Vogue how Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” (Fleetwood Mac, 1977) was one of the first songs he knew the words to, “My parents were big fans”(Vogue, 2020). That consistent exposure quickly rendered Styles a super-fan of the band, especially of lead singer-songwriter, Stevie Nicks. His ability to indirectly tell stories through the use of metaphors and hyperbole bears a significant resemblance to Nicks' writing. For example, Styles’ song 'Two Ghosts' (Harry Styles, 2017, 0:49) depicts the loss of passion in a relationship, describing himself and his partner as “Two Ghosts' standing in the place of you and me”. A similar use of metaphor can be heard in Fleetwood Mac’s hit 'Gold Dust Woman' (Fleetwood Mac, 1977, 3:20), in which the phrase “Pale shadow of a woman, Black Widow.”  is used to describe a woman who is suffering the effects of drug abuse, cocaine being the “Black Widow” that slowly kills her. Both Artists utilise language conventions to subtly convey a storyline, avoiding sounding harsh or direct even when exploring darker subjects.

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Harry Styles has drawn inspiration from Elton John on many occasions, even dressing up as the esteemed performer for Halloween. In an interview with Vogue magazine, Styles declared his admiration for the music legend, stating “The people that I looked up to in music - Prince and David Bowie and Elvis and Freddie Mercury and Elton John - they’re such showmen.” (Vogue, 2020). Known for his bedazzled sunglasses and sequin bodysuits adorned with feathers, John's pride in his own skin seems to resonate with Styles. Styles displayed his growing confidence, stating “Now I’ll put on something that feels really flamboyant, and I don’t feel crazy wearing it. I think if you get something that you feel amazing in, it’s like a superhero outfit.” (Vogue, 2020). Styles not only emulates John’s outlandish wardrobe choices but also takes after his musical composition. Styles' music frequently features piano, often played to sound reminiscent of John’s classic hits. A comparison can be made between the famous 'Bennie and the Jets' (Elton John, 1973) and 'Woman' (Harry Styles, 2017). Both feature a piano introduction of a similar tempo and rhythm.

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Much like Elton John, David Bowie was a revolutionary in terms of style. His vibrant suits and suspenders were the catalyst for Styles’ touring wardrobe. In a Rolling Stone article providing context for an interview with the artist, journalist Rob Sheffield mentions how Styles kept reviewing an old Bowie clip, whilst in the studio making his album (Sheffield, 2019). Styles was fascinated by Bowie's mindset and constantly looked to his legacy for guidance. The particular clip Styles was referring to was from the documentary 'Inspirations' (Apted, 1997), in which Bowie states “If you feel safe in the area that you’re working in, you’re not working in the right area. Always go a little further into the water than you feel you are capable of being in. Go a little bit out of your depth. And when you don’t feel that your feet are quite touching the bottom, you’re just about in the right place to do something exciting.” (Sheffield, 2019). This served as a reminder for Styles to push boundaries and explore his creativity.