Synthwave

Synthwave (also known as Retrowave or Outrun) revives the aesthetic of the 1980s – inspired by analog synthesizers, neon lights, and the iconic film scores of that era. Between the romance of a nighttime drive and a futuristic sci-fi atmosphere, synthwave creates a distinctive, nostalgic, cinematic sound. As a genre in its own right within modern production music, synthwave is especially popular for retro games, sci-fi content, and brands with 80s flair. At SidTunez, our synthwave music is consistently royalty-free while being fully sync-licensed.

What defines synthwave?

Characteristic elements include warm, analog synth pads, distinctive arpeggios, driving basslines, and the typical gated-reverb drums reminiscent of classic 80s film scores. The sound ranges from bright and nostalgic (Retrowave, Outrun) to dark and menacing (Dark Synth), often building with cinematic, suspenseful tension. The mood spans dreamy and nostalgic to driving and nocturnal to epic and futuristic – a sound that instantly conjures images of neon lights and nighttime streets.

Sync licensing: ready for retro games, sci-fi, and campaigns

Synthwave is a sought-after genre for sync placements in retro games, sci-fi trailers, and campaigns with a 80s aesthetic. Our tracks are fully sync-cleared: the rights to composition and recording are clearly settled, so you can use them in commercial and international productions without having to check back with rights holders – ideal for studios, brands, and campaigns releasing worldwide.

Royalty-free: no fees, no registration hassle

In addition, our Synthwave tracks come from composers who are not registered with GEMA. That means no ongoing GEMA fees and no reporting effort – even with high reach on YouTube or in games. Combined with the cleared sync license, you get double legal security: clean with respect to GEMA and clean with respect to the rights holders.

Royalty-free, sync-licensed Synthwave Music – ideal for your projects

The nostalgic, driving sound fits perfectly with a wide range of projects: retro-futuristic games and racing titles, sci-fi trailers and short films, 80s nostalgia campaigns, fashion and lifestyle content with a retro aesthetic, YouTube intros and social media reels, automotive and tech advertising, as well as podcasts. Synthwave instantly gives any project nostalgia, coolness, and a distinctive neon-colored atmosphere.

At SidTunez you'll find a carefully curated selection of professionally produced synthwave music – royalty-free and sync-ready at the same time. Explore our synthwave collection now and find the sound that catapults your project back to the neon era of the 80s.