The word EDM stands for Electronic Dance Music. EDM is a broad genre in which music is created with the help of electronic instruments. The chief instruments used are synthesizers and samplers. It is surrounded by many sub-genres such as house, trance, techno, drum and bass.
The origins of EDM can be traced back to the early 1950s and 1960s with the development of electronic music. House music, which originated in Chicago became popular in clubs and underground dance scenes. Techno-music emerged in Detroit, Michigan, and was heavily influenced by house music but had a more industrial and futuristic sound.
Rytm, Tempo, and Beat are the major characteristics of EDM Music. EDM music greatly relies on synthesizers and other musical instruments. Using such instruments allows artists to produce a wide variety of sounds and textures, which is impossible with traditional instruments.
Types of EDM Music
As mentioned earlier, EDM consists of many subgenres so here are some most popular types of EDM music.
House Music
House music is a type of electronic music created by music producers and DJs in the club. House music is the oldest type of EDM music, originated in Chicago. The music was characterized by rhythms that were mainly produced by electronic machines. ‘Four to the floor’ sound is one of the most recognizable forms of EDM. The other sub-genres of house music are deep house, acid house, and progressive house.
Notable Artists – David Guetta, Zedd, Claude Von Stroke, Hardwell, Daft Punk, Sasha, Avicii, Swedish House Mafia.
Notable Labels – Anjunadeep, Musical Freedom, Revealed Recordings, Toolroom Records, Dirtybird Records.
Techno
Techno is a kind of electronic music that started in Detroit, USA. Techno music often features complex rhythms, hypnotic melodies, and a minimal approach to production. Although techno music is slower than other EDM’s, it makes you feel happy and good about yourself. Techno sounds like a robot, there are no vocal cords in techno but is full of heavy beats. Techno has become popular in many countries other than America.
Notable Artists – Carl Cox, Richie Hawtin, Derrick May, Adam Beyer, Brodinski, Boys Noiz.
Notable Labels – Music On, Drumcode, Bromance Records, Intec Digital.
Trance
Trance emerged in Germany and is one of the most popular styles of EDM. It is known for its repeatedly building up and breaking down of huge melodies. Although the music genre is its own it can be influenced by other styles of EDM such as techno. It is characterized by repetitive, hypnotic, and dreamy melodies. Sub-genres of trance music may include vocal trance, progressive trance, and uplifting trance.
Notable Artists – Armin Van Buuren, Roger Shah, Above and Beyond, Judge Jules, Dash Berlin, Ferry Corsten, Ally and Fila.
Notable Labels – Armada Records, Garuda, Mgic I, Anjunabeats, AVA Recordings, Perfecto Records.
Dubstep
Dubstep is an EDM genre that was founded in South London in the early 1990s. Dubstep is characterized by its heavy bass and aggressive sound. It came out to be a revolution of related styles of EDM like techno, drum, and bass. The major feature of dubstep is its slow tempo and intense drops.
Notable Artists – Skream, Benga, Borgore, Coki, Mala, Kode 9, Excision, Caspa, Joker.
Notable Labels – DMZ, Tempa, Wheel and Deal, Dub Police.
Drum and Bass
Drum and Bass might be the most intense and misunderstood form of EDM. This electronic music started in jungles and rave scenes of London, UK in the late 1980s. The popularity of this music is at its commercial peak. Drum and Bass is famous for its fast tempo and complex rhythms. Its sub-genres include hardstep, breakcore tech steps, dark step, and ragga jungle.
Notable Artists – Goldie, Bad Company, Andy C, High Contrast, Roni Size, Netsky, Noisia, Sub Focus.
Notable Labels – Metalheadz, Ram Records, Virus, Hospital Records.
Best 5 EDM Music and Artists
“Levels by Avicii”
There’s no doubt that Levels by Avicii is one of the best EDM songs. It was a huge hit in 2011.
“Bangarang” by Skrillex
Bangarang is one of the most popular songs amongst all the EDM songs. Bangarang remains one of the best hits of Skrillex.
“Animals” by Martin Garrix
Animals was released in 2013, and it quickly became one of the favorite songs in clubs and festivals.
“Digital Love” by Daft Punk
Daft Punk’s album named ‘Discovery’ is regarded as the best EDM music and ‘Digital Love’ is one of the best songs of the album.
“Feel So Close” by Calvin Harris
‘Feel So Close’ is one of the best EDM’s that will make you feel motivated and energetic.
Best 5 EDM Festivals
Imagine you are surrounded by a lot of joyful and dancing people, with colorful flashing lights. This is what exactly an EDM festival looks like. Thousands of music enthusiasts gather to celebrate their love for electronic dance music and party.
So here’s a list of the best EDM festivals around the globe that should be on your bucket list.
Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland is Bellgium’s most magnificent festival of all time. It is the largest and best techno festival in the world. Tomorrowland is also famous for its fireworks show at the end of the day. The festival is decorated beautifully so that the audience can make it one of the best experiences of their lives.
Electric Daisy Carnival
Electric Daisy Carnival, Las Vegas is a dream place for every EDM fan. Every year thousands of visitors come to Vegas to attend this show. The stages and atmosphere are truly breathtaking and hypnotic designs and special effects will leave you in awe.
Creamfields
If you are in the UK, you should not miss this EDM festival. With mind-blowing sound effects and laser light show this festival is a feast for eyes and ears.
Mysteryland
Mysteryland is famous for its enchanting green atmosphere surrounded by forest, in the stunning Floride Park of Netherlands. This festival offers a variety of music genres from techno to house and hardstyle.
Sunburn Festival
Sunburn is one of the largest music festivals of Asia. The festival attracts fans from around 30 countries globally. If you are into electronic dance music and parties, this show is absolutely for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest EDM festival in the world?
The most popular and biggest EDM festival is Tomorrowland.
What was the first EDM song?
One of the first songs classified as EDM is ‘Popcorn’ by Gershon Kingsley.
What are the types of EDM?
Many genres of EDM include techno, trap, trance, hardstyle, etc.
What is the full form of EDM?
The term EDM stands for Electronic Dance Music.
Final Words
With its wide variety of genres and styles, EDM is something for everyone to enjoy. As EDM continues to evolve and influence people and culture internationally, it is important to appreciate its roots from the beginning. Whether you are looking for fun or dance tracks, EDM is something for you that you can’t miss.
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