Electronic Music Innovations

Eno has been a highly influential figure in world of music. Being one of the pioneers in the electronic genre, he has made a notable mark in ambient music as well. Having coined the term “ambient music” and developed innovative production techniques Eno has had a wider impact on music than most people will ever know.

            Initially his music career began with Roxy Music in the early 70’s, but his time with the band was short lived as he tired of the rock star lifestyle. Straightaway Eno moved toward a solo career and subsequently released four albums within a five-year span. The first of these, No Pussyfooting, Eno started experimenting with tape-delay system he was developing. Used mainly as an effect on his friend’s guitar, it was this use of technology that would set the stage for sampling in genres such as hip-hop and electronica.

            After a car accident left him bedridden for a number of months in ’75 Eno had what is probably his most noteworthy innovation. Being unable to turn up his stereo to hear over a rainstorm it dawned on him that music could have similar attributes as the world surrounding us. Moods, colors, tones, feelings, all can be expressed similarly through the se of music. German composer, Wagner, may be first noted for his ability to incite feeling through his works in the theatre. However, Eno showed through Another Green World that it can be used more often than just in theatre.

            Aside from his ambient works Eno has also been instrumental in the producing side of music. During the 70’s he worked worked with David Bowie, Devo and even assisted in promoting the short lived “No Way” genre. He has produced for several popular 80’s bands like Talking Heads and Depeche Mode as well. His milestone as a producer came when he worked alongside U2. He has worked on seven of their albums, including Joshua Tree, which is arguably one of the most influential albums to have been released in the last 30 years.
            Brian Eno has had a substantial impact on my life. Joshua Tree to this day remains on of the most influential albums of my youth. Aside from that, my desire to work in postproduction may very well be attributed to what he’s done. His ability to show the importance that music and sounds can have on an environment has caused this industry to expand exponentially.