The Various Types of Electronic Dance Music

Get to know the different types of EDM and what makes them each unique. From dubstep to techno, learn about the various sub-genres of electronic dance music.

Introduction

Electronic dance music, also known as EDM, is a broad genre of music that includes a wide variety of sub-genres. The term “EDM” is often used interchangeably with “dance music,” but there is a distinct difference between the two. Dance music is simply any music that is created for dancing, while EDM refers specifically to electronic dance music.

There are dozens of sub-genres within the EDM umbrella, each with their own unique sound and style. Some of the most popular sub-genres include trance, house, techno, Dubstep, and Drum & Bass. This guide will give you a brief introduction to each of these genres so that you can better understand the differences between them.

Trance: Trance is a genre of electronic dance music that is characterized by its hypnotic rhythms and sweeping melodies. The word “trance” refers to the feeling of being in a state of euphoria or ecstasy that is often induced by the music itself.Trance tracks are typically long (5-20 minutes) and build gradually towards a powerful climax. Popular trance artists include Armin van Buuren, Tiesto, and Paul Oakenfold.

House: House music is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in Chicago in the early 1980s. It is characterized by its heavy use of sampling and looping, as well as its focus on rhythm and groove. House tracks are typically 4-6 minutes long and have a steady, driving beat that makes them perfect for dancing. Popular house artists include Calvin Harris, David Guetta, and Swedish House Mafia.

Techno: Techno is a genre of electronic dance music that emerged from Detroit in the mid-1980s. It is characterized by its minimalist composition and lack of vocals, as well as its focus on atmosphere and rhythm. Techno tracks are typically 6-8 minutes long and have a pumping, repetitive beat that makes them perfect for dancing or listening purposes. Popular techno artists include Richie Hawtin, Carl Cox, and Jeff Mills.

Dubstep: Dubstep is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in London in the early 2000s . It is characterized by its heavy use of bass frequencies and synthesizers , as well as its focus on rhythm and texture . Dubstep tracks are typically 2-4 minutes long , with a wobbling bassline that gives them their signature sound . Popular dubstep artists include Skrillex , Nero ,and Rusko .

Drum & Bass: Drum & Bass (often shortened to D&B or DnB) is a genre of electronic dance music that emerged from London in the early 1990s . It is characterized by its fast tempo , breakbeats ,and overall chaotic sound . Drum & Bass tracks are typically 3 – 5 minutes long , with an energetic feel that makes them perfect for dancing or listening purposes . Popular Drum & Bass artists include Pendulum , cells ,and Wilkinson .

House

House is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in the 1980s. It is characterized by a four-on-the-floor beat, a moderate tempo, and often includes elements of disco and funk. House music is often played in nightclubs, and it is popular at parties and raves.

Techno

Techno is a form of electronic dance music that emerged in Detroit, Michigan in the United States during the mid-to-late 1980s. The first techno productions were characterized by a relentless, pumpy bass drum on every beat, with a few synthesizer stabs thrown in for good measure. This was accompanied by sparse arrangements of synth pads and other electronic textures. By the early 1990s, techno had evolved to include a wider range of styles and sounds, although the minimalist production aesthetic remained intact.

Trance

Trance is a genre of electronic dance music that emerged from the British new-age music scene and the early 1990s. Trance music is characterized by a tempo of between 130 and 160 beats per minute, repeating melodic phrases, and a musical form that builds up and down throughout a track.

Drum and Bass

Drum and bass is a type of electronic dance music that emerged in the early 1990s. It is characterized by fast, syncopated beats and often features growling bass lines. Drum and bass music is often played at nightclubs and rave parties.

Dubstep

Dubstep is a genre of electronic dance music that emerged in the late 1990s. It is characterized by a slow tempo, often around 140 beats per minute, and heavy bass. The genre was pioneered by producers such as Skream and Benga, and has been particularly popular in the United Kingdom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different types of electronic dance music, each with their own unique sound and style. While some genres may be more popular than others, all of them have their own devoted fan base. Whether you’re a fan of deep house or hardstyle, there’s definitely an EDM subgenre that you’ll enjoy. So get out there and start exploring the vast world of electronic dance music today!