Not All EDM is Created Equal
EDM is broadly used to categorize many different subgenres of music. Be able to determine the differences.
I recently had a conversation about EDM and how it is now more than ever part of mainstream music. The growth of music festivals has helped skyrocket the genre. However, EDM is really a kitchen sink description. Hopefully, this article gives you insights into the subgenres.
EDM subgenres must have light shined on them because people have their own opinions as to what they include. Engaged couples could have a perception of what EDM music is and their music entertainer could have a completely different perception. Let’s start with a definition of EDM.
EDM can have different meanings of music. Why? Because EDM (or electronic dance music) is the umbrella term for all genres within the dance music space. This includes genres such as ambient, drum and bass, house, electronic, techno, trance, and many more.
There are many subgenres to EDM. See a list of EDM genres on Wikipedia. It is a list of more than 300 EDM subgenres. Yikes!
Quick note - The EDM music industry is influenced by DJs around the world. It would be an injustice if I did not mention the top DJs. See a list of the top DJs in the world according to DJ Mag. What’s cool is that the list is updated regularly.
Below is a snippet of popular subgenres of EDM you should know. Each has a sample playlist to understand the genre’s music. I am by no means an expert in EDM and am trying to not only share this introspective for learning but also to learn more about the genre myself.
I want to emphasize that like all music, songs can be categorized into several genres and not restricted to one subgenre. The same can be said for music artists.
In addition, the subgenres below have different styles too. As an example, House music could be classic house, progressive house, Chicago house, etc, etc, etc.
Something else to consider is your location. Popular house music will vary by country. Hits in the USA, UK, and Germany can/will all be different.
If you are a mobile DJ and performing at private party events or planning your own party, then you will need to clarify the styles of music most preferred.
Subgenres of EDM sampled in this article:
Ambient
Dance
Deep House
Drum & Bass
Dubstep
Electronic
House
Techno
Trance
Plus, EDM Hits For A First Dance
Ambient
Ambient music is a genre that focuses on creating a tranquil and atmospheric sonic environment. Ambient music is characterized by its emphasis on mood, texture, and the creation of a spatial or immersive sonic experience.
Well-known artists associated with ambient music include Brian Eno (often credited as a pioneer of the genre), Harold Budd, and Aphex Twin.
My thoughts are that the songs in the genre work best only as wedding background music to set a specific vibe and allow for talking.
Sample Ambient music: