genealogy tree by Jasmine Carpenter

ME

1033386_2 — 2024-02-08 05:58:58 UTC

Radiohead

1033386_2 — 2024-02-15 06:20:12 UTC

I am inspired by the bands ability to touch on themes like existentialism, alienation and societal issues through their lyrics. Radiohead's music has an emotional impact on me through their experimental approach to music, blending multiple genres to create something that pushes the boundaries of common music. Radiohead often switches between soft delicate sounds to bright intense sounds, as well as their lyrics which is something I have always been inspired by. The way Radiohead blends rock with electronic music is something I have always wanted to achieve.

R.E.M

1033386_2 — 2024-02-20 00:09:45 UTC

R.E.M.'s songwriting often incorporates layers of instrumentation and textures, creating a sense of depth in their music. Radiohead, especially in their later albums like "Kid A" and "In Rainbows," explores similar sonic landscapes, experimenting with layering and manipulation to create immersive sounds. "And through his songs, Stipe spoke to me, ‘It’s okay, you don’t have to justify yourself to anyone." (Yorke, 2020). R.E.M's influence is very evident in Radiohead's songs through emotional authenticity in lyrics and overall depth and complexity in their music.

Pixies

1033386_2 — 2024-02-20 00:23:11 UTC

Radiohead’s Thom Yorke was also deeply inspired by Pixies’ music, even stating that the band’s 1989 album Doolittle “changed my life“ (Ferrier 2023). Pixies were known for their dynamic song structures, which often had abrupt shifts in tempo, volume, and intensity. Radiohead, particularly on their early albums like "Pablo Honey" and "The Bends" experimented with similar contrasts and unexpected transitions in their music. Jonny Greenwood has taken inspiration from Pixies' guitarist in his approach to how he strums rather than the sound.

My Chemical Romance

1033386_2 — 2024-02-20 00:23:31 UTC

MCR has a major influence on the sound and performance I want to eventually achieve. MCR's emotionally charged lyrics explore themes of identity and self-expression through real-life experiences. I am not only inspired by their lyrics and sound but also the theatrical performances, music videos, and conceptual storytelling through albums have inspired me to explore my own artistic expression. Their powerful riffs combined with Gerard's haunting vocals shows their differing musical styles throughout their discography. Them being able to blend elements of music from their time and the bands before them into their sound is what really inspires me.

The Smiths

1033386_2 — 2024-02-21 14:16:12 UTC

["I heard the Smiths, and that really changed everything for me”] The Smiths, fronted by Morrissey, are known for their poetic lyricism and songwriting “I love being compared to Morrissey" (Cardew 2004). Similarly, MCR's early albums, especially and "Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge," feature emotionally charged lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and existential angst. With their unique sound and aesthetic, The Smiths challenged popular music all throughout the 80s scene. Taking inspiration from them, MCR started pushing the norm with their dramatic stage shows, eerie visuals, and poignant songs.

Black Flag

1033386_2 — 2024-02-21 14:16:22 UTC

My Chemical Romance's guitarist Frank Iero has stated the only reason he started playing guitar was due to Greg from black flag (Premier Guitar, 2021). Iero also mentions growing up in New Jersey allowed him to be familiar with Black Flag through The Misfits creating a connection between the two. Through their music and message, both bands represent a sense of nonconformity and a rebellion.

The Misfits

1033386_2 — 2024-02-21 14:16:36 UTC

"This album made me realise that there is no right way to do anything-there are no rules" (G. W. S. 2013) The Misfits, who combined punk rock elements with horror-themed songs and visuals, are credited with creating the horror punk sub-genre. Despite not being a typical punk band, MCR has been impacted by the mentality, intensity and rebellion of punk rock especially in their formative years.

Jeff Buckley

1033386_2 — 2024-02-22 04:44:46 UTC

“Radiohead went back to the studio and Thom completely changed the way that he was singing" (Taylor, 2022). Thom after he went to a Jeff Buckley concert. Jeff Buckley was well-known for his ability to express strong emotions through his music and for his emotionally charged live performances. Radiohead also explores emotional landscapes in their music, especially with lead singer Thom Yorke. It's possible that both musicians were influenced by the same themes in their songwriting, which include melancholy, alienation, and existential angst. Buckley's vocal technique, which is characterised by its expressiveness, range, and agility, influenced Radiohead's vocal style directly. There are parallels between Thom Yorke's dynamic vocal performances and falsetto.