Description: Alternative rock is a diverse and expansive genre that emerged in the 1980s and gained mainstream popularity in the 1990s. It encompasses a broad range of styles and influences, often characterized by a rejection of the conventions of mainstream rock. Alternative rock artists frequently experiment with musical structures, lyrics, and instrumentation. Key features of alternative rock include a DIY ethos, a focus on authenticity, and a willingness to explore unconventional sounds and themes. The genre includes subgenres such as grunge, indie rock, post-punk, and more. Notable alternative rock bands and artists include Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Radiohead, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Beck. Alternative rock has played a significant role in shaping the modern rock landscape, and its influence continues to be felt in various subgenres of contemporary rock music.
