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power pop

American  
[pou-er pop] / ˈpaʊ ər ˌpɒp /

noun

  1. a genre of popular music based mainly on pop rock, characterized by cheerful, well-harmonized melodies; fast, strong rhythms; and energetic vocals.


Etymology

Origin of power pop

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They had found their sweet spot: spiky power pop buffed into a commercial sheen by Roy Thomas Baker, the producer famous for his skillful work on Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 23, 2025

Jimmy Eat World has consistently put out impeccable power pop for 30-plus years, with “Clarity” and “Bleed American” among the best alt-rock records released in that time frame.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2025

Elsewhere, the more melancholic numbers hearken back to rainy-day power pop of the ’90s, occasionally erupting in star-reaching guitar leads that would make My Morning Jacket jealous.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 6, 2021

While The Cars and their dreamy power pop did achieve critical success, earning a place last year in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, they were also cursed with popularity.

From Salon • Sep. 16, 2019

Too Late For Love, their contribution this year, is a typically polished slice of power pop with a rousing gospel accompaniment.

From BBC • May 12, 2019