Alternative music is a diverse genre that emerged in the 1980s and gained mainstream popularity in the 1990s. It encompasses a wide range of styles, often characterized by a departure from the conventional sounds of pop and rock music. Artists like Nirvana and Radiohead have played pivotal roles in shaping the genre, blending elements from punk, post-punk, and other musical influences. The term 'alternative' originally referred to music that was an alternative to the mainstream, often featuring unconventional song structures and lyrical themes. Today, it includes a variety of subgenres, such as grunge, shoegaze, and emo, appealing to listeners seeking something different from commercial music.