Is EDM the Same as Electronic Music?
Contents
We get a lot of questions about EDM and electronic music, and whether they’re the same thing. In short, the answer is no – but there’s a bit more to it than that. Here’s a quick rundown of the main differences between EDM and electronic music.
Introduction
Electronic Dance Music, or EDM as it’s commonly called these days, is a broad term that covers a wide range of sub-genres. It’s generally used to describe any kind of music that is made using electronic equipment and is designed to be danced to.
However, some people argue that the term EDM is too vague and that it can be used to describe any kind of music that contains electronic elements, regardless of whether it’s meant to be danced to or not.
So, what exactly is EDM? Is it the same as electronic music? Let’s take a closer look.
##EDM is a broad term that covers a wide range of sub-genres
Electronic Dance Music, or EDM as it’s commonly called these days, is a broad term that covers a wide range of sub-genres. It’s generally used to describe any kind of music that is made using electronic equipment and is designed to be danced to.
However, some people argue that the term EDM is too vague and that it can be used to describe any kind of music that contains electronic elements, regardless of whether it’s meant to be danced to or not.
So, what exactly is EDM? Is it the same as electronic music? Let’s take a closer look.
What is EDM?
EDM, or Electronic Dance Music, is a genre of music that is made purely for the purpose of being danced to. It is often played in nightclubs, festivals, and raves. The genre first gained popularity in the early 1990s and has since exploded in popularity.
The History of EDM
The history of EDM is long and storied, with roots tracing back to the early days of experimental electronic music. Early pioneers like Kraftwerk and Giorgio Moroder laid the groundwork for what would become a worldwide phenomenon, with their innovative and boundary-pushing sounds.
As the years progressed, new genres and sub-genres began to emerge, each with its own unique flavor and style. From the thumping beats of techno and trance to the wub-wub bass of dubstep and trap, EDM has continued to evolve and grow, attracting new fans from all corners of the globe.
Today, EDM is more popular than ever, with massive festivals that draw hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world. And as technology continues to advance, we can only imagine what new sounds and styles will be born in the years to come.
The Different Types of EDM
There are lots of different genres within EDM, and new sub-genres are always emerging. Here are some of the most popular types of EDM:
-House: A sub-genre of electronic dance music that originated in Chicago in the early 1980s. House music is characterized by a 4/4 time signature, a steady drumbeat, and simple bassline.
-Techno: A sub-genre of electronic dance music that emerged in Detroit in the early 1990s. Techno is characterized by a strong, repetitive bassline and a feeling of euphoria.
-Trance: A sub-genre of electronic dance music that originated in the early 1990s. Trance is characterized by breakdowns, buildups, and dropouts (i.e., changes in tempo and intensity).
-Drum & Bass: A sub-genre of electronic dance music that originated in the UK in the early 1990s. Drum & bass is characterized by fast breakbeats and heavy basslines.
What is Electronic Music?
EDM is a genre of music that is made with electronic instruments and equipment. It is also commonly referred to as “electronic dance music.” This type of music has been around since the 1970s and is still going strong today. Many people enjoy listening to EDM because it is high energy and can get you moving.
The History of Electronic Music
Electronic music is music that employs electronic musical instruments, digital instruments and circuitry-based music technology. A distinction can be made between sound produced using electromechanical means (electroacoustic music), and that produced using electronics only. Electromechanical instruments include mechanical elements, such asstrings, hammers, and so on, as well as electrical elements, such as magnetic pickups, power amplifiers and loudspeakers. Examples of electromechanical sound producing devices include the telharmonium, Hammond organ, and the electric guitar. Pure electronic instruments do not have vibrating strings, hammers, or other sound-producing mechanisms. Devices such as the theremin, synthesizer and computer can produce electronically generated sounds. Often, mixers interface several capture devices and/or processors to allow manipulation of all captured sounds as a single entity called a multichannel audio file; however these mixes are usually contained within one file format such as WAV or AIFF files.
The Different Types of Electronic Music
There are many different types and genres of electronic music. Here are some of the most popular:
Ambient: Ambient electronic music is characterized by a slow, relaxing tempo and soundscapes that can be dreamy or meditative. This type of music is perfect for studying, working out, or simply unwinding.
Downtempo: Downtempo electronic music is similar to ambient music, but with a slightly faster tempo and often featuring more complex melodies and harmonies. This type of music is perfect for relaxing or working infocused.
Trance: Trance music is characterized by trance-inducing rhythms and melodies, often with a fast tempo. This type of music is perfect for dancing, working out, or parties.
House: House music is characterized by a 4/4 beat and often features repetitive, catchy melodies. This type of music is perfect for dancing or working out.
Techno: Techno is a catch-all term for any type of electronic dance music that has a strong focus on the DJ or producer as an artist. This type of music can be perfect for dancing, parties, or simply enjoying the creative soundscapes.
The Similarities and Differences Between EDM and Electronic Music
EDM, or Electronic Dance Music, is a term that is often used interchangeably with electronic music. However, there are some key differences between the two genres. EDM is generally more upbeat and focuses on creating a party atmosphere, while electronic music can be more experimental and eclectic.
The Similarities
Though both genres typically feature synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers, electronic music tends to be experimental while EDM is more song-based. Both styles are created with electronic equipment, but EDM is made to be played in nightclubs and festivals, while electronic music can be created for any purpose.
The Differences
The main difference between EDM and electronic music is that EDM is produced for the purpose of being played at nightclubs, festivals, and raves, while electronic music is a general term that can encompass many different genres and styles.
EDM is usually created with synthesizers, drum machines, and computer software, while electronic music can be made with any type of instrument or recording device.
EDM tends to be more danceable and have a stronger beat than other types of electronic music. It also often includes elements of pop music, hip hop, and house music.
Electronic Music can encompass a wide range of styles, including: techno, trance, dubstep, Drum & Bass (D&B), UK garage, 2-step garage, breaks, jungle, and more.
Conclusion
In conclusion, EDM and electronic music are two genres that are often confused for one another. While they may share some similarities, they are ultimately two distinct genres. Electronic music is a broad umbrella term that can encompass a wide range of subgenres, while EDM is a more specific genre that developed from the rave culture of the 1990s.
