Dance music has long been an influential way of countering society norms with grassroots passion and shared experiences that transform lives, yet recent decisions driven by profits are threatening its values and inhibiting creative potential.
Existing efforts such as Metallic Inc’s Metallic Fund and PRS Foundation’s Women Make Music are commendable; however, more funds targeting marginalised communities must also be established. Furthermore, artists need to build networks among themselves and support each other.
Dance music is a genre of music
Dance music is a genre designed to get people moving. Typically featuring fast tempos and beats per minute (BPM), as well as infectiously rhythmic grooves. Dance music often includes an irresistibly catchy melody with electronic instruments and synthesized vocals; furthermore combining elements from various musical genres into its sound; some examples being electro house, techno dubstep and trance music.
Dance music has many subgenres and draws inspiration from cultures all around the world, with long traditions in Africa where dynamic movements synchronized with percussion instruments serve as expressions of cultural identity and social cohesion. Dance music also forms an integral part of folk dancing forms like square and contra dance as well as being enjoyed at nightclubs and festivals worldwide.
Over time, dance music has transformed into EDM (electronic dance music). EDM comprises many distinct subgenres like house, techno, trance and drum and bass; each genre differing in terms of sound and BPM but all sharing an energy-charged vibe that creates an upbeat listening experience.
Rooted in African and European music traditions, dance music traces its roots back to early stages, placing special emphasis on rhythmic elements that propel movement in people. Samba rhythm has long been the cornerstone of many modern dance songs while blues lyrics have long had an influenceful effect on its evolution.
Dance music’s development has been driven by both technological and cultural factors. Technological innovations, including digital recording techniques and synthesizers, have had a great effect on its growth; additionally, dance music embraced punk culture’s DIY ethos in terms of experimenting beyond conventional boundaries, leading to the birth of new styles like drum and bass and hardstyle.
There are various ways to access dance music, including streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. These services offer access to an expansive music catalogue while enabling users to easily create custom playlists of their favourite songs based on personal taste. They’re user-friendly services with plenty of opportunities for discovering new sounds!
Physical stores and digital download outlets also carry dance music. These sources provide an excellent opportunity to discover new tunes while revisiting some of its classic hits from dance music’s long history, such as Chic’s disco classic “Le Freak,” Snap!’s ’90s hit “Rhythm Is a Dancer,” or more recent chart-toppers such as Calvin Harris & Dua Lipa’s hit “One Kiss”.
Dance music has long been influenced by different genres, including rock, pop, funk and hip hop. Its rhythms feature pulsing beats that encourage dancing while its distinctive sound has become an essential component of contemporary music culture. Recently however, its global popularity has skyrocketed and dance music is now one of the major pillars in global musical culture.
It’s a popular genre of music
Dance music is a multi-genre genre of music with many different styles. As more people discover it and technology evolves, its popularity has continued to increase exponentially. Dance music’s energetic beats and catchy melodies can get anyone moving their feet! Additionally, this genre boasts diverse instruments and complex musical structures, creating an entertaining form of entertainment and stress relief; thus making dance an excellent alternative choice from traditional rock, hip hop or country genres.
Dance music has quickly become a global phenomenon, drawing large crowds at festivals and concerts worldwide. Additionally, clubs and radio programs feature it regularly; many prominent DJs have earned international renown thanks to their work. Genres range from classical to pop; each has their own style: some complex while others rhythmic or upbeat such as funk disco house.
Rock, hip hop, and R&B music remain some of the most widely recognized genres worldwide; however, which genre is most prevalent is determined by location, culture and individual taste. Each genre has shaped world history while continuing to influence and change today.
Popular musical genres vary significantly by country, yet certain subgenres remain particularly influential and long-lasting. Pop, rock and hip hop music continue to shape popular culture and enjoy continued growth thanks to new artists and songs.
R&B music, which began evolving into soul music during the 1960s, has long been revered for its emotive vocals and is popular throughout both America and internationally. Famous artists who perform this genre include Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin and Beyonce.
Drum and bass (or simply drum and bass) is an increasingly popular music genre that originated in the 1990s in the United Kingdom. It combines breakbeats with non-standard rhythms to produce an aggressive sound; since its introduction by Electronic Dance Music (EDM), its popularity has skyrocketed further.
Reggaeton is a popular genre of music combining elements from reggae, Latin American music and hip-hop. Its lively beats and catchy melodies have made it an audience favorite worldwide; Rihanna and Lady Gaga have contributed immensely to its immense popularity. Additionally, reggaeton can often be found playing at festivals and concerts worldwide.