2021 is set to bring new musical trends and flourishing genres to the forefront of the industry. From Afrobeat to hyperpop, indie rock to K-Pop, this article explores the top 10 music genres expected to dominate charts, airwaves, and streaming platforms. Hyperpop, a fusion of glitchy electronic beats, saccharine vocals, and tongue-in-cheek lyricism, will break out into the mainstream, whilst reggaeton will continue to transcend cultural boundaries with experimentation and fusion between different genres. Country artists will push boundaries with unique collaborations and experimentation, and Jazz will inspire musicians with new interpretations and experimentation. The world of music remains a rich and diverse place, promising a year of genre-bending and experimentation.
The Top 10 Music Genres That Will Dominate 2021
2020 might have made us all yearn for simpler times, but music has remained constant throughout the chaos. From Korean pop to lo-fi beats, the world’s musical landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, and 2021 will undoubtedly bring new trends and flourishing genres to the fore. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 music genres that are expected to dominate the charts, airwaves, and streaming platforms in 2021.
1. Hyperpop
Hyperpop has been brewing underground for several years but has lately broken out into the mainstream, thanks to artists like 100 Gecs and Rico Nasty. Hyperpop is a fusion of glitchy electronic beats, saccharine vocals, and tongue-in-cheek lyricism. Fans of bubblegum pop, trap, and EDM will find solace in the refreshing and audacious sounds of hyperpop in 2021.
2. Afrobeat
Afrobeat has been on the rise for several years now, and 2021 is shaping up to be another great year for the genre. Originated in Nigeria in the 1970s, Afrobeat blends traditional African rhythms with funk, jazz, and highlife music. Artists such as Burna Boy, WizKid, and Davido are flying the flag for Afrobeat on the global stage, and their influence is likely to continue in the coming year.
3. Indie Rock
Despite the steady rise of pop and hip hop, indie rock remains a steadfast genre that has always found resonance with alternative music lovers. From the nostalgic sounds of The Strokes to the experimentalism of King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, indie rock remains one of the most exciting and diverse genres out there. In 2021, expect to see more introspective, lo-fi, and DIY indie rock bands that reflect the uncertain times we live in.
4. Reggaeton
Reggaeton continues to transcend cultural boundaries, with artists such as Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Rosalía bringing their own unique flavors to the genre. Originated in Latin America, reggaeton blends dancehall reggae, hip hop, and Latin rhythms to create a potent mix that appeals to anyone who loves to dance. In 2021, expect even more experimentation and fusion between different genres within reggaeton.
5. K-Pop
K-Pop has arguably become the most significant global export of South Korea in recent years, with boy and girl bands like BTS, BLACKPINK, and TWICE capturing the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. K-Pop combines catchy melodies, impeccably choreographed dance routines, and stunning visuals to create a total entertainment package. In 2021, expect K-Pop to continue to dominate social media, streaming platforms, and music charts around the world.
6. Country
Country music has always been a genre that prides itself on telling authentic and relatable stories. The success of artists like Lil Nas X, Kane Brown, and Gabby Barrett has brought country music into the spotlight, with more people than ever before listening to the genre. In 2021, expect country artists to continue to push the boundaries of the genre with unique collaborations and experimentation.
7. Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has been a mainstay of the club and festival scene for many years, and there’s no reason to believe 2021 will be any different. EDM blends different electronic sub-genres such as house, trance, and dubstep to create pulsating beats that get people moving. Expect more diverse and eclectic sounds, experimentalism, and collaborations in the world of EDM in 2021.
8. Heavy Metal
Despite the misconception that heavy metal is a dying genre, the truth is quite the opposite. Heavy metal, with its roaring guitars, thundering drums, and guttural vocals, continues to be a genre that resonates with fans of hard rock. The success of bands such as Metallica, Slipknot, and System of a Down proves that heavy metal is here to stay and will only get stronger in 2021.
9. Jazz
Jazz, with its improvisation, swing, and soulful melodies, is a genre that transcends time and place. Jazz music has undergone many transformations throughout its history, from the bebop of the 1940s to the fusion of the 1970s. Jazz is a genre that inspires musicians of all kinds, and the coming year will undoubtedly bring new interpretations and experimentation of the genre.
10. Trap
Trap, with its thumping beats, Auto-Tuned vocals, and nihilistic lyrics, has become a genre that has broken out of the underground and into the mainstream. Trap is a sub-genre of hip hop that originated in the Southern United States but has now taken over the world. Expect more trap artists to emerge in 2021, reflecting the genre’s ability to be both accessible and innovative.
In conclusion, the world of music continues to be a rich and diverse place, and 2021 promises to be another exciting year for genre-bending and experimentation. Whether you’re a fan of hyperpop or heavy metal, there’s sure to be something on this list that will pique your interest.