Market Retro 80s Music Production and Revived Nostalgic Sounds.

There's a clear and ongoing fascination with the 80s music vibe. This isn't just about enjoying the classics; people are really into new music that captures that era's unique sound. Production techniques like gated drums and Linn drum machines are often talked about. Plus, modern artists who adopt this retro style, such as Washed Out, The Northern Lights, Neon Indian, and Timecop1983, are being discovered and shared by fans, showing there's a lively and passionate community around this niche. The discussion also brings up the idea that "good music stands the test of time," suggesting that what might seem "dated" is more about specific production choices rather than a lack of quality, and these choices are now being intentionally revived.

This offers several commercial and marketing opportunities:

1. Music Software/Plugin Development & Marketing: There's a steady demand for software emulations of classic 80s hardware like Linn drum machines, specific synthesizers, and gated reverb effects. Marketing can focus on achieving that "authentic 80s sound" that both hobbyists and professional producers are after.
2. Educational Content Creation: There's a great opportunity for tutorials, online courses, and articles that dive into 80s music production techniques, sound design, and the use of specific gear (or their emulations).
3. Artist Promotion & Label Specialization: Niche record labels or marketing agencies could specialize in promoting contemporary artists who embody the "new retro wave" or "synthwave" sound, tapping into the existing nostalgic audience.
4. Streaming Platform Curation & Playlisting: Continued and expanded curation of playlists on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, focusing on "New 80s Sound," "Retro Revival," or specific microgenres that emulate the 80s. This helps new artists in this style get discovered.
5. Sample Pack Creation: Developing and selling high-quality sample packs featuring 80s-style drum hits (especially Linn drums, gated snares), synth loops, and FX, catering to producers who want to incorporate these elements.
6. Hardware Reissues or Inspired Gear: There's a potential market for affordable hardware reissues of iconic 80s drum machines or synthesizers, or new hardware inspired by their workflow and sound.
7. Licensing for Media: Increased opportunities for contemporary artists creating 80s-style music to license their tracks for films, TV shows, video games, and advertisements looking for a retro aesthetic.