If you are a music fan, chances are that you likely use streaming platforms to discover and listen to songs. After all, there is no shortage of music on Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud, and all other streaming platforms.
But have you ever wondered what the most popular and most streamed genres are on these platforms?
If so, keep reading this article as we highlight the top five music genres currently dominating the streaming platform charts.
Hip-Hop
This genre is undoubtedly the reigning genre across all major music streaming platforms. It originated in the eighties as an urban underground movement for young Afro-Americans, Caribbean Americans, and Latino Americans to express themselves and their frustrations with their economic conditions.
This genre swiftly became well-liked and famous with catchy beats, rough sounds, and sharp lyrics. Over the years, the genre has evolved to create various styles but still remains true to its roots of creating awareness about the plight of minorities.
Pop
The best way to describe pop music is, well, anything that is popular. Hence, this is why this genre has been on the top of the charts for decades. It is hard to describe what pop is as a genre because it has changed drastically over the years.
The best way to describe it is anything that is gaining massive popularity during the current time. That said, pop can encompass classical music, jazz, hip-hop, and much more.
Rock
This is perhaps one of the oldest genres that are still quite popular, as seen on streaming platforms. It started out in the 50s and quickly took over much of the United States, Great Britain, and, eventually, the rest of the world.
Today, rock has multiple sub-groups ranging from soft rock, psychedelic rock, grunge, and so much more. The most popular bands worldwide belong to this genre, including the Beatles, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, and more.
Electronic Dance Music
The rise of technology, specifically computers, and electronic instruments, lead to the creation and rise of this genre that now dominates music charts. However, despite its novel nature, the genre actually came about during the 70s.
EDM has its roots in the disco culture of the 70s but largely comprises songs that are primarily created through the software on computers. Today, EDM rings through clubs worldwide all night long.
R&B
Another genre that dominates streaming platforms today is R&B. It began in the 40s by Afro-Americans when they combined the two most popular genres of the time, Rhythm and Blues. Though it has humble beginnings, the genre is nothing but rich.
Today, it encompasses various sounds, from electronic beats and thought-provoking lyrics, to blues-themed melodies and soulful riffs. Not only that, but the most popular artists worldwide hail from this genre, including Stevie Wonder, Beyonce, Aretha Franklin, and Mariah Carey.
Conclusion
Streaming platforms have made it considerably easier for people to discover new music, revisit old tracks, and keep track of the latest additions in their favorite genre.
These are just some of the reigning genres that fill the streaming charts, but as time passes, it is clear that they will keep evolving to become better.
Eric Dalius is The Executive Chairman of MuzicSwipe, a music and content discovery platform designed to maximize artist discovery and optimize fan relationships. He also hosts the weekly podcast “FULLSPEED,” showcasing conversations with trailblazing entrepreneurs from various fields. Through the “Eric Dalius Foundation,” Eric has created four scholarships for US students. Connect with Eric on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Entrepreneur.com.