The hard-core punk music scene unexpectedly took back in the mid-1980s, when an entirely new generation of punk music emerged from Washington-area. In place of social anger that has become characteristic of the punk movement until then, the new music creator talks about his own struggle 'and inner turmoil. Immediately dubbed "emotional hardcore", the emphasis in the music shifted from a commentary on the outside world, for the exposition warts-and-all the clutter that is found in the inner soul. Over time, the music develops, shifts in style because it is absorbed influences from many genres of music, but always maintains an inner declaration trademark raw emotion. As grows, so does the sub-culture and substance, to develop into what we know as the emo style today.Today, it is all about self expression, and vote for a person's unique individuality. For teens and young adults who are part of the sub-culture, telling the world who they are in themselves, and what they feel, is as important as breathing. Everything from style their hair with their choice in clothing is a careful attempt to get the message that is set on.
Typical hair style is cut asymmetrically, long enough to obscure the many faces in the front, and short and choppy, or even pointed, towards the rear. It can be dyed coal black, or whatever color from magenta to orange. It can be colored or striped. It can be bleached. Anything, except for the perm, go. What is important is the uniqueness of style and individuality. Real emo haircuts are usually not the result of a visit to the hairdresser. People who use it to cut himself, or have a friend do the honors.
Stereotyped images of skinny teenagers in a band T-shirts and narrow-legged jeans are just that: stereotypes. Anything can, and sometimes not, occur as far as clothing goes. Tartan pink pants with a hoodie and spiked heels, anyone? Fashion is about expressing yourself.
Misunderstanding of the EMO as overly emotional teenager, with nothing to get so worked around, is another stereotype. The philosophy is about being open, honest and comfortable you feel, even if it sometimes means having crying fits. Who does not have one every now and again? It's just that the EMO is more open about it.
The music itself now bears little resemblance to the 1980 hardcore punk roots. Around the mid-1990s, there was a significant shift in style, sometimes referred to as the "second wave". Driving punk style gives way to art-house indie influences. The record company quickly picked up on it, and before long, challenging things easy categorization cuts labeled "emo". Not only is this view is too simplistic, it is somewhat misleading. Genre has its own specific style, and even sub-styles. Fans may debate worthy of the band is considered as a part of it, and what not, but one thing they all agree on is that the emotions raw, riveting has been a part of it, or just not the style of emo.
