1960-1969United States

Adult Contemporary

Adult Contemporary is a genre characterized by its smooth, melodic sound that often features soft rock, pop, and ballads. It is designed to appeal to mature audiences, typically incorporating polished production and themes of love and relationships.

Adult Contemporary music guide

Origins and context

United States

History

The Adult Contemporary genre evolved in the 1960s and 1970s as radio stations sought to cater to an older audience that had grown up with rock and roll but desired a softer, more refined sound. It became a staple of radio programming, blending elements of pop, rock, and easy listening. Over the decades, it has continued to adapt, incorporating contemporary pop and soft rock influences.

Essential listening

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