Music has been a part of human culture for thousands of years. From the earliest drum beats to modern-day EDM, music has evolved along with our species. However, today’s music landscape is vast and sometimes confusing. With so many styles and genres, how do you know which ones are right for you?
This guide will help explain how various types of music came about, their cultural significance and why they’re different from one another—and it’ll give you some recommendations on where (and who) to start listening.
Classical
Classical music is the oldest type of music, dating back to the Middle Ages. It often includes orchestras and soloists, and it can be very long and complex. Classical pieces are often based on themes from mythology, literature or religion.
Live music
Live music is a great way to experience music. You can see how the artist performs the song and connect it with their energy. For example, if they achieve an upbeat song, you’ll feel their energy too! If they play a sad song and there’s no audience reaction whatsoever, that might make you feel sad as well. It’s all about connecting with other people through music.
Hip Hop
Hip Hop is a genre of music that is lyrically focused on hip-hop culture. It’s associated with the subculture of Hip Hop Culture, which includes graffiti art, breakdance and rap music.
Hip Hop has many subgenres, including West Coast Hip Hop, East Coast Hip Hop and Southern Hip Hop.
Country
Country music is a form of popular music that has been around for many years. Some country artists have been producing music for decades, and some are still very popular today. Country music has roots in folk music, but it’s become much more than that over the years.
If you love listening to songs about love, heartbreak and everything else in between, then you’ll probably enjoy the country as well!
Pop
Pop music is the most popular genre of music in the world. It has its roots in rock and roll, but it’s often danceable, upbeat and catchy. Pop songs are generally more commercial than other types of music because they’re built to be played on the radio or sell records and tours.
Jazz
Jazz is a type of music that originated in New Orleans, a combination of African and European music. A small group of musicians originally played jazz; however, it has evolved into many different styles, including Bebop, Smooth Jazz, Fusion, and Swing Music. The instruments used to create jazz include the saxophone, trumpet, piano and drums.
Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is the most popular genre of music in the world today. It’s also a broad category that includes many different sub-genres. While EDM encompasses many sounds, you’ll often hear it associated with clubbing and raves, as well as pop music—but with more of an emphasis on beats and rhythms than lyrics. That said, there are many EDM sub-genres with unique sounds and styles:
There are many different types of music. It can be hard to find the right kind for you, but it’s worth it. Think about what music you like, and try listening to new genres! You might have been missing out on some great tunes for years now.
