What Is Lo-Fi Music?[History of Lo-Fi And Popular Artists]

There is something about Lo-Fi music that just makes you feel good. Maybe it's the warm and fuzzy feeling you get when you listen to old vinyl records, or maybe it's the way the low-bit soundscape takes you back to a simpler time, or maybe it's the way the instruments seem to be slightly out of tune, but in a way that makes them sound more human.

Whatever it is, Lo-Fi music has been around for centuries and doesn't show any signs of disappearing anytime soon.

In this blog post, we'll explore what is Lo-Fi Music, the history of Lo-Fi music and some of the artists who have made it popular. We'll also discuss why Lo-Fi music is so appealing and has become such a timeless trend in sound and how you can start incorporating it into your work.

What Is Lo-Fi Music

So, what exactly is Lo-Fi music? Lo-Fi can be defined as music that is recorded with lower-quality equipment and often has a lot of background noise. This type of music often sounds rough around the edges and imperfect, but in a way that makes it more charming and intimate.

It is the opposite of Hi-Fi music, recorded with high-quality equipment and meant to sound polished and perfect.

Lo-Fi music is often associated with bedroom producers or DIY musicians who can't afford expensive recording equipment, but this isn't always the case. Some of the most popular Lo-Fi artists have been signed to major labels and have produced mainstream hits.

The History of Lo-Fi Music

Lo-Fi music has been around for centuries, but the term itself was first coined in the 1950s by radio engineer William B. Snow. He used it to describe the hiss and crackle that would often be present on vinyl records.

The sound became known as "Lo-Fi" and was later used to describe music that was recorded with lower-quality equipment.

In the 1970s, Lo-Fi music became popular in the punk rock scene. Bands like The Ramones and The Sex Pistols often recorded their albums on cheap, four-track recorders, which gave their songs a lo-fi sound.

This trend continued into the 1980s with bands like Sonic Youth and The Pixies, who were also known for their lo-fi sound.

The Lo-Fi Era

Lo-Fi music has been around for centuries, but it wasn't until the late 1990s that the term was coined. In 1996, William Orbit released an album called Strange Cargo III, which was made up of Lo-Fi recordings of popular songs.

This album is credited with popularizing the sound and giving it its name. Around the same time, a band called The Postal Service began making Lo-Fi remixes of popular songs and uploading them to the internet.

Their song "Such Great Heights" became a huge hit and is often considered one of the pioneers of the Lo-Fi movement.

Since then, Lo-Fi music has exploded in popularity, and countless artists are now making this type of music. Some of the most popular Lo-Fi artists include Washed Out, Mac Demarco, and Girlpool.

These artists have found success by subverting the polished sound of mainstream pop and creating something that is raw and intimate.

The Appeal of Lo-Fi Music

So, what is it about Lo-Fi music that makes it so appealing?

One of the biggest reasons is that it evokes a sense of nostalgia. The low-bit soundscape and imperfections in the recordings make us think of old vinyl records and cassette tapes, which takes us back to a simpler time.

This type of music also feels more human because of the way the instruments sound slightly out of tune. It's not perfect, but it's real.

Another reason Lo-Fi music is so popular is that it's easy to produce. You don't need expensive equipment or a professional studio to make Lo-Fi music. All you need is a computer and some basic recording software.

This has made it possible for many independent artists to create and release their music without depending on a record label.

This genre of music has been around for decades, but it's recently enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. Lo-Fi music is perfect for studying, working, or relaxing. It's also great for when you want to zone out and escape the world for a little while.

Lo-Fi music is here to stay, and we can't wait to see what new artists will bring to the genre. If you're looking for something different, give Lo-Fi music a try. You might just find your new favourite sound.

What’s the Hype Around Lo-Fi Music and Anime?

If you’ve been on the internet at all in the past year, you’ve probably come across Lo-Fi music. This genre of music is typically characterized by its chilled-out beats and relaxed vibes.

It has become increasingly popular in recent years, with artists like Tomppabeats, Chillhop Music, and Joji gaining notoriety.

But what is it about Lo-Fi music that’s captured the internet’s attention? Part of it has to do with the resurgence of popularity in anime. In particular, the 2016 anime series “Death Note” featured a Lo-Fi hip-hop track called “ Shinigami ” by the artist known as Nujabes.

This anime series introduced many people to the Lo-Fi music genre, and since then, there’s been a growing interest in the style. There are now numerous Lo-Fi radio stations and channels on YouTube where listeners can relax and study with chilled-out beats.

So if you’re looking for new music to help you relax or focus, be sure to try Lo-Fi. You might just find yourself getting hooked on the mellow vibes.

What Makes Lo-Fi Music Relaxing?

Lo-fi music is usually associated with a calm and relaxed feeling. This is partly because of the low-quality production values used to create Lo-fi tracks. The imperfections in the sound add to the charm of this genre and can help you relax when you’re feeling stressed.

Another reason why Lo-fi music is so relaxing is that it often has a slow tempo. This can help to slow down your heart rate and breathing, which can lead to a feeling of calm. The relaxed and laid-back vibes of Lo-fi music can also help you to drift off to sleep if you’re struggling to get some shut-eye.

And finally, many people find that the repetitive nature of Lo-fi tracks can be therapeutic. The simple and often looping melodies can help to clear your mind and allow you to focus on the present moment.

Why Do Students Listen to Lo-Fi Music?

It's no secret that school/college can be stressful for students. There's a lot on their plate, from exams and papers to social pressures and extracurricular commitments. So it's no wonder that many students turn to music to help them relax and unwind. But what type of music do they listen to?

For some of them, the answer is Lo-fi music. Lo-fi (short for "low fidelity") is a music genre characterized by its relaxed and mellow sound. It often features simple instrumentation and production values, giving it a raw or unfinished feel.

So why do students love Lo-fi music? There are a few reasons.

• First, the laid-back sound of Lo-fi music can help us relax and destress. It's the perfect accompaniment to a long study session or a late night of writing.
• Second, Lo-fi music is often highly nostalgic. The simple production values and vintage aesthetic evoke memories of childhood, summertime, and simpler times. This can be especially comforting when we feel homesick or stressed out by college life.
• Finally, many students appreciate the DIY nature of lo-fi music. In an age where everything is overproduced and polished, it's refreshing to listen to something that feels more organic and real. Lo-fi music is often by independent artists following their vision rather than trying to meet the music industry's standards.

Who Are Some of the Best Lo-Fi Artists to Help You Relax?

If you're looking for some of the best lo-fi artists to help you relax, look no further than Jinsang, Tomppabeats, and Teebs. These 3 artists have been making waves in the Lo-fi scene for years and show no signs of slowing down.

1. Jinsang

Jinsang is a South Korean producer who has been releasing music since 2011. His beats are often slow and mellow, with an emphasis on atmosphere and mood. Jinsang's music is perfect for studying, relaxing or just chilling out. Some of his songs are even used in ASMR videos.

If you're looking for something a little different, check out Jinsang's album "Life." It's a bit more upbeat than his usual work, but it still has that signature lo-fi sound.

Albums: Life, Sentimental Value, Solitude

Songs: "Snow," "Lately," "Homebody"

2. Tomppabeats

Tomppabeats is a Finnish music producer who first gained popularity on SoundCloud in 2012. His music is characterized by its lo-fi, jazzy sound and often features samples from old vinyl records.

Tomppa has released several albums and EPs, including "Clear Skys Over Tokyo" and "Dripping With Gold." In addition to his solo work, he has also collaborated with other artists, such as J Dilla and MF DOOM.

Tomppa's music has been featured on numerous television shows and films, including "The OA" and "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse."

If you're a fan of lo-fi hip hop, then you need to check out Tomppabeats. His music is the perfect blend of old and new, and it's sure to get your head bobbing. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

3. Teebs

Teebs is an artist who produces his own unique brand of lo-fi music and has been gaining popularity in the underground music scene.

His music focuses on creating a warm and nostalgic feeling, often using field recordings and samples from old vinyl records. Teebs' beats are usually slow and hypnotic, with layers of dreamy melodies that wash over the listener.

Teebs' music is the perfect example of how lo-fi can be used to create something beautiful and timeless. It's no wonder that his work has been praised by some of the biggest names in electronic music, including Flying Lotus and Bonobo.

If you're looking for something different to listen to or just want to relax and drift away into another world, Teebs' music is definitely worth checking out.

4. Ocha

Ocha la Rocha - "ghosts of a future lost"Ocha la Rocha's "Ghosts of a Future Lost" is the perfect example of a Lo-Fi song. The production is rough, the instruments are distorted, and the overall atmosphere is one of melancholy.

This song perfectly captures the feeling of nostalgia that many people associate with Lo-Fi music.

If you're looking for a more upbeat example of Lo-Fi music, check out Washed Out's "Feel it All Around." This song has a dreamy quality to it that makes it perfect for relaxing or studying. The production values are still low, but the overall tone is much happier.

One of Ocha's greatest tracks is "Iridscnt" in which she demonstrates her vocal talents over a backdrop of ethereal synths and drum machines. The production is very minimal, but it works perfectly for the song. It creates a feeling of intimacy that is often lacking in music today.

5. Leavv

Leavv's sound is one of the more unique ones in the Lo-Fi scene. His music often features field recordings from his childhood home in Taiwan and Hong Kong. These elements give his music a very personal and nostalgic feeling.

One of Leavv's greatest songs is "Lullaby". The song features a recording of his grandmother singing a Taiwanese folk song. The song is so beautiful and sad at the same time.

6. Oatmello

Oatmeal is one of the most popular Lo-Fi producers on Soundcloud.

Oatmello's music has a warm and nostalgic feeling, which is likely why it's so popular. It takes the listener on a journey back in time to a simpler place. This is one of the main appeals of Lo-Fi music; it has the ability to transport the listener to another time and place.

Oatmello's most liked song is "no way back" it puts to life the phrase "you can't go home again."

7. Kupla

Lo-fi music has always been about creating a feeling more than anything else.

Kupla's track "Vuoto" is the perfect example of this, with its washed-out sound and ethereal atmosphere. The lyrics are simple but effective, and the overall effect is one of dreamlike beauty.

This is lo-fi music at its finest and will surely transport you to another world entirely.

8. Nohidea

Nohidea's “falling down” is an excellent example of Lo-Fi music done right. The song's catchy melody is easy to sing along to, while the sub-par production quality gives the track an organic feeling of spontaneity.

It's clear that Nohidea isn't striving for perfectionism, and that's part of what makes this tune so great. In a world of overproduced music, it's refreshing to hear something that sounds like it was made in a bedroom.

9. Lofi Radiance

The third and final album on our list is Lofi Radiance by Lo-Fi Guy. Released in 2020, this album is a perfect example of how Lo-Fi music can be used to create a relaxing and chilled-out atmosphere.

Featuring a range of different instruments and samples, Lofi Radiance is an album that you can easily lose yourself in. Whether you're looking for some background music to study to or just want something to relax to, this album is definitely worth checking out.

10. Guustavv

“Light Beams” by Guustavv is one of the most beautiful lo-fi tracks I’ve ever heard. Its airy, dreamlike quality is perfect for a lazy summer day or unwinding after a long day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lo-Fi music is a great way to relax and unwind. It's perfect for study sessions or long drives. Whether you're a fan of the old school or the new school, there's definitely something for everyone when it comes to Lo-Fi music.

So go ahead and give it a try - you might just find your new favourite genre.

Lo-Fi music is a great way to relax and escape everyday life's stresses. If you have never given it a try, you should. There are many different sub-genres within Lo-Fi, so there is bound to be something that appeals to you.

Give it a listen and see for yourself - you might just fall in love with the sound of Lo-Fi music!