Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is a vibrant genre that draws inspiration from disco, techno, and other exciting musical styles. From its humble beginnings in early DJs like Kraftwerk to the cutting-edge trends we see in today’s modern artists like Anyma, EDM has continually evolved, leaving us in awe of its innovation and power to move souls.
Take a journey through musical history with facts you never knew about EDM. It’s time to close your eyes, feel the pulse of the bass, and get ready to learn the secrets and surprises that lie beneath the surface of this electrifying genre.
1. EDM Unites Through Rhythm
Music has a remarkable ability to connect people from all walks of life, and EDM is no exception. The magic of EDM goes beyond barriers and unites a global community through the universal language of rhythm — and it’s a specific rhythm, with different EDM subgenres having typical BPMs between 120 and 150.
House music typically ranges from 118 to 135 BPM, techno music generally ranges from 120 to 160 BPM, dubstep usually falls around 140 BPM, and drum and bass often has a BPM of around 160 to 180. Finally, trance music typically ranges from 125 to 150 BPM.
Whether you’re dancing under the neon lights of a festival stage or grooving to beats in your bedroom, the pulse of EDM creates a shared experience that brings us together, regardless of nationality, race, or background.
2. EDM Dates Backs to Disco
While disco music itself is not the direct origin of EDM, it played a significant role in its development.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, disco music began to incorporate more electronic elements, largely due to advancements in music technology. Synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers became more accessible and were increasingly used in music production. These electronic elements became integral to the sound of dance music.
Around the same time, DJs in clubs started to mix records together to create a continuous flow of music, a technique that is central to EDM. In addition, the tradition of remixing songs, another key aspect of EDM, also began in the disco era.
From pioneers like Giorgio Moroder experimenting with synthesizers to the iconic clubs of Ibiza and Berlin ushering in a new era of electronic sounds, EDM found its roots in a rich tapestry of musical history that continues to inspire artists and audiences worldwide.
3. DJs Have Gone Digital
In the virtual realm, DJs rule the digital stage with larger-than-life performances that defy the boundaries of space and time. Virtual DJ sets have revolutionized the way we experience live music, transporting us to fantastical landscapes and immersive audiovisual spectacles in favorites like Fortnite.
The game has hosted several virtual concerts and events where players can attend and experience the performance in a unique, interactive environment.
One of the most notable examples is DJ Marshmello’s virtual concert in 2019, which reportedly attracted over 10 million players. It was a fully interactive, in-game concert where players could join in and watch Marshmello perform on a virtual stage.
Fortnite has continued to host various virtual events and concerts, indicating a new trend in music performance and consumption.
4. EDM Has Unconventional Sound Origins
Have you ever wondered where those infectious EDM sounds come from? You’ll be amazed by the unconventional sources that fuel the creativity of EDM producers.
For example, in Skrillex’s track “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites,” he used a sample from a YouTube video featuring a fan who demonstrated how to make the “dubstep growl” sound that Skrillex is known for.
Even more interestingly, in the track “Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff,” Deadmau5 used a sample of a coffee grinder as part of the percussion.
From the clinking of glasses to the chirping of birds, EDM artists draw inspiration from the sounds of everyday life, transforming mundane noises into mind-bending beats that pulse with energy and emotion.
5. EDM Takes Influence from International Cultures
Travel across the globe through the vibrant tapestry of EDM styles influenced by many international cultures. From the mesmerizing rhythms of Latin America to the pulsating beats of Africa and the hypnotic melodies of Asia, each corner of the world brings its unique flavor to the EDM scene.
Major Lazer’s “Lean On” is a popular example that features elements of reggaeton and moombahton, both of which have Latin American roots. Similarly, Steve Aoki is well known for including traditional Asian instruments like the koto, shamisen, and erhu in his work.
Cultural fusion shapes EDM subgenres, showcasing the beauty of diversity and the power of music to transcend language and borders.
6. Technology Is the Key to EDM
Step into the future of music production with the groundbreaking technologies that have revolutionized the EDM industry. From digital audio workstations to virtual instruments and AI-powered music creation tools, technology has propelled EDM into a realm of limitless possibilities.
The invention of synthesizers and drum machines in the mid-20th century allowed musicians to create and manipulate sounds electronically. Instruments like the Moog synthesizer and the Roland TR-808 drum machine became staples in electronic music production.
Meanwhile, the introduction of MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) in the 1980s allowed electronic instruments and computers to communicate with each other, opening up new possibilities for music composition and performance.
More recently, the rise of the internet and social media platforms has made it easier for artists to distribute their music and reach a global audience. Platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, and YouTube have been instrumental in the rise of many electronic music artists.
Revel in the Beat — EDM’s Resonant Legacy
From the innovative sounds of today’s techno artists to the cultural influences that shape EDM’s diverse landscape, we’ve only scratched the surface of this dynamic genre. As the beats fade and the melodies linger in our minds, remember that EDM isn’t just music — it’s an experience, a journey, and a shared passion that unites us all.
So, next time you hit play and feel the music coursing through your veins, remember the endless possibilities, the global connections, and the unwavering power of EDM to move your soul. The world of EDM awaits, ready to surprise, inspire, and ignite your senses once more.
