Classical Music

Characterized by its complex compositions, classical music makes use of orchestras and chamber ensembles and an adherence to traditional forms.

It spans various periods from the Baroque to Romantic to Contemporary and weaves an incredibly rich tapestry of compositions from renowned composers like Beethoven, Mozart, and Tchaikovsky.

Classical music is often appreciated for its emotional depth, intricate melodies, and the technical virtuosity required to perform it.

Jazz

Notable jazz artists include Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane, jazz is a known for its improvisation, syncopated rhythms, and rich harmonies.

It emerged in the United States in the late 19th century and has since evolved into various subgenres like bebop, swing, and fusion.

Jazz musicians often create expressive and spontaneous performances, making each rendition unique.

For a deep dive into jazz, its history, and its profound effects on American society and beyond, take a look a Ken Burns Jazz miniseries.

Rock & Roll

With roots in jazz, blues, folk, country, and even classical, rock music is characterized by its use of amplified instruments, strong rhythms, and often lyrics addressing personal or societal themes.

With a million different subgenres, from classic rock and punk to alternative and progressive rock, there's something for everyone in rock music... just ask (truly) legendary producers Quincy Jones and Rick Ruben.

Iconic rock bands like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd and individual performers like Tina Turner, Eric Clapton, and Melissa Etheridge, rock has made such an indelible mark on the history, it's even got its own Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!

Hip Hop

Hip-hop has its roots in African-American culture and is characterized by its rhythmic spoken word, aka rapping.

It emerged in the Bronx, New York, in the 1970s and has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon.

Hip-hop artists use their lyrics to convey personal experiences, social commentary, and political messages.

No mention of hip hop and rap is complete without shoutouts to Grandmaster Flash, Eminem, The Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, Run DMC, and Kendrick Lamar, who've reshaped the music industry.

Electronic Dance Music (EDM)

To an outsider EDM is known for its electronic beats, synthesized sounds, and a focus on danceability.

To those in-the-know about EDM, it's also about PLUR or Peace. Love. Unity. Respect.

Its subgenres like house, techno, trance, and dubstep, are often associated with vibrant nightlife and electronic festivals, where it's common to see festival goers hugging complete strangers for no reason other than the humanity and beauty of the moment they're sharing as a society.

On the dance floor, EDM DJs and producers use technology to create immersive and energetic soundscapes that captivate audiences around the world.

Country

Sure, people joke about country music being all about pickup trucks, dogs, and redneck living, but country music has a rich history that transcends time and place.

Country music tells stories of rural life, love, and personal experiences, often featuring acoustic instruments like guitars, fiddles, and banjos.

Subgenres of the art form like traditional country, outlaw country, and country pop showcase the genre's diversity.

And, how could we even mention country music without mentioning the likes of artists like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Garth Brooks who've each made significant contributions to country music and American culture.

Salsa

Salsa music—and dance—originated in the Caribbean with strong influences from Cuban and Puerto Rican rhythms.

It's characterized by infectious percussion, vibrant horn sections, and lively danceability.

Salsa's energetic beats and passionate lyrics make it a staple in Latin music and dance scenes worldwide.

Iconic salsa musicians include Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, and Marc Anthony.

Reggae

Originating in Jamaica, reggae is known for its laid-back rhythms, offbeat guitar strokes, and socially conscious lyrics.

Bob Marley, arguably THE reggae icon, brought the genre to international prominence with songs like "One Love" and "No Woman, No Cry."

Reggae's messages of peace, love, and social justice continue to resonate worldwide.

R&B (Rhythm and Blues)

R&B combines soulful vocals with elements of jazz, gospel, and blues.

It focuses on emotional expression and often addresses themes of love, relationships, and personal struggles.

While legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and Whitney Houston have left an enduring legacy within the genre, most anyone who's a student of the art form would agree all roads lead to Robert Johnson as the true originator of The Blues.

Heavy Metal

While heavy metal is best known by its loud, strong guitars, powerful drumming, and often dark or aggressive themes, there's a lot more to it... a lot more.

In fact, dig a bit into, you'll find some of the world's most talented musicians.

Subgenres like classic metal, thrash, and progressive metal offer diverse sonic experiences.

Bands like Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and, of course, Metallica, have been influential in shaping the genre's intensity and sound.

Indie Rock

Characterized by its DIY ethos and an emphasis on creative expression and independence from major record labels, indie rock encompasses a broad spectrum of sounds, from lo-fi indie pop to experimental indie rock.

Bands like Radiohead, Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, and The Strokes have gained acclaim for their innovative and often non-mainstream approaches to rock music.