People who play musical instruments or sing music in the rock and roll genre are known as rock musicians. Although many rock musicians are hobbyists or semi-professional musicians who play music as a part-time job or even an occasional occupation, they may make a living playing such music. Although guitar, bass, and drums are perhaps the most common instruments associated with the rock and roll genre, the specific instruments these musicians will play can vary significantly. Musicians in the rock genre frequently use the piano and keyboards.
Rock musicians may combine many different styles of music to create a unique sound within the genre of rock and roll. Rock and roll evolved from other genres such as blues, jazz, and even gospel, and it continues to evolve as new sounds and talents are introduced. Within the rock and roll genre, there are sub-genres that further narrow the types of music that rock musicians will perform. Alternative, nu-metal, folk rock, emo music, and other sub-genres are examples. Many of these genres are also primarily driven guitar and drums, though variations are possible and common.
Professional rock musicians frequently tour specific countries, if not the entire world, to promote their albums. Musicians are sometimes signed to record labels, which provide financial support while on tour, though the amount of money provided to rock musicians varies. The term “Rock and Roll Lifestyle” comes from this touring, which is often done on a shoestring budget: this lifestyle can be difficult, exhausting, and nomadic. Rock musicians who live the Rock and Roll Lifestyle are often associated with drugs and alcohol, as well as sexual promiscuity.
Rock musicians frequently form rock bands, which are groups of musicians who play together to create a distinct and distinctive sound. Each member of the band will play at least one instrument or sing, and many of the musicians will be multi-instrumentalists. Rock bands frequently begin as garage bands, performing for fun or as practice for a larger career move in a small space that is often free or very inexpensive to rent. Garage bands are known for being amateur bands, though many have ambitions to rise above their humble beginnings and achieve success. This process has become something of a rock and roll mythology, with many of the world’s most famous bands beginning in this manner.