28 Electronic Music Genres That Spark Unstoppable Creativity

EDM (Electronic Dance Music) is a vague term that describes all of the electronic music genres that we know and love. 

But, did you ever wonder the difference between them all?…

Well, you’re in luck, because we’re breaking down all of the most popular electronic music genres that have dominated dance clubs/music festivals since their inception.

Everything you need to know about what makes these electronic music genres unique, we’re covering today, like:

• Distinct rhythms ✓
• Signature soundscapes ✓
• Influential artists & cultural origins ✓
• Key electronic instruments/equipment (e.g., drum machines & synths) ✓
• Tempo ranges ✓
• Iconic tracks ✓
• Production techniques ✓
• Subgenre evolutions ✓
• Dancefloor energy levels ✓
• Audience appeal ✓
• Much more about these epic electronic music genres ✓

After reading this article, you’ll know everything about all the most epic electronic music genres in the game that have massive mainstream success.

As producers, this knowledge can really help you understand the nuances of each genre and how to create tracks that resonate with your audience. 

Plus, you’ll be able to mix and match elements from different genres to create something truly unique, like a true professional.

And produce tracks that actually stand out in the competitive world of electronic music, which isn’t as easy as it sounds.

So, let’s dive right in to these electronic music genres…

What is Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Exactly?

Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is the umbrella term for all electronic music genres that primarily focuses on: 

• Fast beats
• Rhythms
• Synthesized sounds

All of which are designed to really energize a crowd and get people moving.

It’s often played at nightclubs, festivals, and raves, where DJs mix tracks live to create an immersive experience that everybody gets lost in.

EDM has evolved over the decades, incorporating elements from various music styles like house music, techno, and hip hop.

This proves that it’s a dynamic and ever-changing genre. 

Its popularity has led to large-scale events like Ultra Music Festival, where sub-genres like progressive house, deep house, and big room house are mainly featured. 

Its global appeal is driven by its infectious energy, heavy bass, and the emotional highs and lows layed down by expert producers.

28 Electronic Music Genres: Breaking it Down

Now that you have a solid idea of what makes electronic dance music special, let’s dive into the many electronic music genres that it’s made up of. We’ll explore the defining characteristics, unique features, tempos, etc. of 28 electronic music genres. 

#1. House Music

House music originated in Chicago in the early 1980s and is characterized by its repetitive 4/4 beat and soulful melodies. 

It typically features deep basslines, driving drum machines, and synthesized vocals, which makes it a staple in dance music scenes around the world. 

 

The house spectrum is huge, covering sub-genres like deep house, progressive house, and big room house 一 each offering unique takes on the traditional house formula. 

House music often finds a place in electronic music festivals like the Ultra Music Festival, where its infectious vibe keep the dancefloor moving. 

The repetitive, groove-driven structure of house music creates a hypnotic effect, allowing dancers to lose themselves in the rhythm, which is what it’s all about.

Its ability to blend soulful elements with high-energy drum rhythms is what makes it a timeless player of electronic dance music.

Just think Swedish House Mafia, and you’ll get the full picture.

#2. Progressive House

The second genre we’re talking about is Progressive house, which is a sub-genre of house music that emphasizes: 

• Extended builds
• Melodic elements
• Evolving soundscapes

Unlike traditional house and other electronic music genres, progressive house tracks often feature much longer structures.

This allows for more intricate layering of sounds and a deeper emotional journey that people really love.

It started taking over the scene in the 1990s and has remained a popular choice for DJs at massive events and music festivals.

With its focus on melodic progression and euphoric melodies, progressive house has a unique ability to create an immersive experience for listeners. 

It’s a sub-genre that appeals to those who appreciate the emotional depth and complexity that electronic dance music brings to the table.

It really brings the tension and release that drives people crazy (in a good way).

#3. Deep House

Deep house, another epic sub-genre of house music, is known over other forms of house music for its: 

• Complex chords
• Smooth melodies
• More subdued tempo

It often features a mix of live electronic instruments and sounds, which gives it a more organic feel that resonates with fans of soulful and jazz-influenced music. 

The deep, groovy basslines and subtle vocal samples make it perfect for creating a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere on the dancefloor. 

Deep house tracks are staples in the playlists of intelligent dance music enthusiasts who appreciate the genre’s fluidity and emotional depth. 

Its ability to blend chill vibes with danceable drum rhythms is what sets deep house apart from many genres in the electronic music realm.

#4. Intelligent Dance Music (IDM)

Intelligent Dance Music (IDM) is one of those electronic music genres that really traditional norms/structure by using:

• Complex drum rhythms
• Experimental sounds
• More abstract melodies

It avoids the repetitive beats found in other electronic dance music genres, and going for more intricate and ‘cerebral’ compositions if you will.

IDM is characterized by its use of unconventional time signatures, glitchy effects, and atmospheric soundscapes, making it a favorite among innovative music producers. 

Its focus on innovation and creativity over mainstream appeal is what makes it stand out in the world of electronic music, and gains massive respect in my book.

IDM is for those who seek a deeper, more thought-provoking listening experience because it blurs the lines between electronic and ambient music.

#5. Electro House

Electro house is a high-energy sub-genre of house music that combines the four-on-the-floor beat with heavy basslines and aggressive synthesizers. 

It’s known for its punchy kick drums, distorted bass, and razor-sharp leads 一 making it a favorite in both clubs and festivals. 

Electro Housse often features glitchy elements and tech house influences, which creates this awesome futuristic, dancefloor-ready sound people are drawn to.

It has been popularized by notable artists like Calvin Harris and Martin Garrix, whose tracks dominate the electronic dance music charts. 

Its blend of intensity and accessibility has locked down electro house as a staple in the EDM scene, appealing to people looking for those OG electronic music genres.

#6. Big Room House

Big room house is a sub-genre of house music that emerged in the early 2010s, known for its large, powerful drops and minimalistic melodic sections. 

It’s a go-to genre when it comes to festival stages because of its:

• Anthemic builds
• Heavy kick drums
• High-energy leads

This is because it’s basically designed to resonate with large crowds, creating an electrifying atmosphere that few other electronic music genres can match. 

Big room house tracks emphasize simplicity and repetition, letting that mind-blowing powerful bass and drums take center stage. 

What makes big room house unique is its ability to create a massive, room-filling sound that captivates audiences in clubs, festivals, and house parties around the world.

#7. Glitch Hop

Glitch hop is a genre that fuses elements of hip-hop with glitchy electronic sounds, characterized by its: 

• Complex beats
• Chopped samples
• Experimental rhythms

It uses glitch effects as well, which is where the sound is intentionally manipulated to create stutters, skips, and digital distortions (my personal favs).

Glitch Hop’s unique blend of heavy basslines, funky drum rhythms, and tech house influences gives it a distinctive sound that stands out over other electronic music genres.

Glitch hop is popular among those who appreciate innovative production techniques and the fusion of electronic music with hip hop’s rhythmic complexity. 

Its able to create an otherworldly, yet groovy atmosphere is what sets it apart from more classic/traditional forms of electronic dance music.

#8. Tech House

Tech house is a subgenre that combines the minimalism of techno with the groove and soul of house music, creating a sound that’s both super driving and danceable. 

It typically features: 

• A steady four-on-the-floor beat
• Deep basslines
• A heavy focus on subtle changes in the music

This alone makes it a favorite in underground dance scenes.

The genre’s simplicity in structure is balanced by its complexity in sound design, where the focus is on the rhythm and the blend of synthetic and organic sounds. 

Tech house is often played in long, seamless sets, where DJs slowly build the energy 一 making it an absolute must in clubs that prioritize the groove over big drops. 

Its ability to maintain a hypnotic, yet engaging flow is what makes tech house a key player in the electronic music world.

#9. UK Garage

UK Garage (UKG), is one of the many electronic music genres that originated in the United Kingdom during the early 1990s, known for its: 

• Shuffling beats
• Vocal chops
• Bass-heavy grooves

Unlike other electronic dance music genres, UK garage incorporates elements of R&B, jungle, and house music 一 creating a sound that’s both smooth and energetic. 

It typically features a 4/4 beat with syncopated hi-hats and snare patterns, giving it a distinctive swing that sets it apart from more straightforward dance music.

 

UK garage has influenced many other genres, including grime and dubstep, and remains a beloved favorite in the UK dance music scene. 

Its unique blend of soulful vocals and intricate drum rhythms is what makes UK garage a standout in the world of electronic music genres.

#10. Vocal Trance

Vocal trance is a sub-genre of trance music that places a huge emphasis on melodic vocals, often paired with uplifting and euphoric melodies. 

It typically features long, emotional build-ups leading into powerful drops.

The combination of soaring vocals and synthesizers creates an immersive and transcendental experience that is almost addicting.

Unlike other forms of trance, vocal trance integrates catchy lyrics that add an extra layer of emotional depth 一 making it really stick in the listener’s minds more than others.

It is, like a lot of other electronic music genres, popular at large-scale electronic music festivals like the Ultra Music Festival, where its uplifting vibe drives crowds crazy.

What makes vocal trance unique is its ability to evoke strong emotions through its fusion of vocals and high-energy beats.

It provides an unforgettable listening experience that is both intimate and expansive.

#11. Drum and Bass

Drum and bass (DnB) is a high-tempo genre characterized by fast-paced breakbeats, heavy basslines, and intricate drum patterns. 

Another one of the electronic music genres originating from the UK’s rave scene in the early 1990s, drum and bass has evolved into a very diverse genre.

Its sub-genres range from the aggressive sounds of hardcore techno to the smoother, jazz-influenced liquid funk, so it’s really got everything.

Its defining feature is its rapid breakbeats like I said, usually around 160-180 BPM, combined with deep bass that shakes the dancefloor. 

Drum and bass is known for its complex drum rhythms and dark, atmospheric sounds 一 making it a favorite in underground dance music scenes. 

Its ability to maintain a high level of intensity while incorporating intricate musicality is what sets drum and bass apart from other electronic music genres.

#12. Hardcore Techno

Hardcore techno, simply called hardcore usually, is a genre that pushes the boundaries of speed, intensity, and aggression in electronic music. 

It typically features extremely fast-paced tempos, often exceeding 180 BPM, and incorporates: 

• Distorted kick drums
• Harsh synths
• Dark, industrial sounds

Hardcore techno originated in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with its roots in the underground rave scenes of Europe, particularly in the Netherlands and Germany. 

Its relentless energy and epic sound make it a favorite at hardcore raves and festivals, where the intensity of the music is matched by the intensity of the crowd. 

What makes hardcore techno unique is its ability to create a visceral, almost physical experience through its sheer sonic power.

This makes it one of the most extreme forms of dance music/electronic music genres, hands down.

#13. Future House

Future house is a subgenre that blends elements of deep house and electro house, characterized by its bouncy basslines and sharp synths.

Plus, of course, a heavy focus on futuristic sounds. 

It emerged in the mid-2010s, popularized by notable artists like Tchami and Oliver Heldens, who brought this genre some serious mainstream attention. 

Future house tracks often feature a combination of melodic elements and heavy drops 一 making them perfect for both radio play and festival stages. 

Its distinct sound comes from its use of metallic, wobbling basslines and tight, punchy drums, giving it more a modern, polished feel. 

What sets future house apart from other electronic music genres is its ability to maintain the groove and soul of house music. 

All while incorporating the energy and impact of electro house, which crowns it a versatile and widely appealing genre.

#14. Tropical House

Tropical house (aka trop house), is a sub-genre of deep house that incorporates elements of: 

• Reggae
• Dancehall
• Caribbean music

It really gives a laid-back, sun-soaked vibe that is appreciated by many.

It typically features slower tempos, melodic steel drums, and smooth, relaxing synths, making it the perfect soundtrack for beach parties and summer festivals. 

Tropical house gained popularity in the mid-2010s, with notable artists like Kygo and Frankie Knuckles bringing the genre to international attention. 

Its distinctive sound is its warm, breezy feel, often complemented by soothing vocal samples and mellow basslines. 

What makes tropical house unique over other electronic music is its ability to evoke a sense of escapism and relaxation that even Bob Marley would be proud of.

It’s one of those sub-genres that really has a knack for transporting listeners to a tropical paradise through its uplifting melodies and chilled-out drum rhythms.

#15. Acid House

Acid house is a subgenre of house music that became absolutely iconic in the late 1980s thanks to its distinctive use of the Roland TB-303 bass synthesizer. 

It’s characterized by its squelching, resonant basslines, repetitive beats, and hypnotic rhythms, which create an entrancing, almost psychedelic experience on the dancefloor. 

Acid house played a key role in the UK’s rave culture, where its underground sound became the soundtrack to the poppin’ electronic dance music scene. 

What sets acid house apart from other electronic music genres is its use of the TB-303’s unique filter sweeps and modulations.

It produced the signature “acid” sound that defines the genre. 

Plus the raw, minimalistic approach to production allows the bassline to take center stage, making acid house one of the most timeless/influential electronic music genres.

#16. Fidget House

Fidget house is a subgenre of house music that emerged in the mid-2000s, known for its quirky, glitchy sounds, and playful, bouncy drum rhythms. 

It typically features a mix of cut-up vocal samples, distorted basslines, and jacking beats 一 creating a sound that’s both chaotic and fun. 

Fidget house tracks often incorporate elements of electro house and tech house, blending them with a hyperactive, almost jittery production style. 

It’s super popular in underground dance scenes, where its unpredictable and energetic sound keeps the dancefloor moving. 

What sets fidget house apart from other electronic music genres is its playful approach to house music.

It constantly surprises listeners with unexpected twists and turns in the rhythm and sound design, which means it never gets dull or boring.

This makes it a unique and exciting genre within the electronic music realm.

#17. Hard House

Hard house is a subgenre of house music that is defined by its fast-paced tempos, heavy basslines, and hard-hitting beats. 

It originated in the UK during the 1990s and quickly became a favorite in the rave scene due to its relentless energy and driving drum rhythms. 

Hard house tracks often feature: 

• Repetitive loops
• High-pitched synthesizers
• Intense build-ups

And the cherry on top is that they always lead to explosive drops to create that high-energy atmosphere on the dancefloor. 

Its straightforward, no-nonsense approach to production is what makes it so effective in club settings (where the focus is, of course, to keep people dancing all night long). 

What makes Hard House epic over other electronic music genres is its ability to maintain an intense level of energy throughout a track, making it a go-to genre for those looking to keep the party going.

#18. Techno

Ahh, Techno… one of the most classic foundational sub-genres of electronic music, originating in Detroit in the mid-1980s. 

It is famous for its repetitive, mechanical beats, synthesized melodies, and futuristic soundscapes 一 often creating a cool, industrial atmosphere. 

As a sound designer, I personally can’t stand the sound, but I have to give respect where respect is due.

Techno tracks typically feature a 4/4 beat with deep bass and minimalistic arrangements, focusing on the rhythmic and textural elements rather than melody. 

It’s actually influenced countless other styles of electronic music, including tech house, acid house, and hardcore techno, which is awesome.

What really sets techno apart is its relentless drive and hypnotic rhythms, which create an immersive, almost trance-like experience on the dancefloor. 

Techno’s ability to transport listeners to a futuristic, dystopian world through sound is what makes it a unique and captivating genre in the electronic music scene.

#19. Dubstep

Dubstep is another super popular genre that emerged in the early 2000s in London, known for its heavy basslines, syncopated rhythms, and dark, eerie atmospheres. 

It typically features a tempo around 140 BPM, with half-time rhythms that allow for deep, wobbling bass and intricate sound design to take center stage. 

Dubstep is famous for its use of sub-bass frequencies, which are often modulated to create the signature “wobble” sound that defines dubstep. 

Unlike other electronic music genres, dubstep places a strong emphasis on the drop…

That sudden, intense shift in the track that releases pent-up energy in a powerful burst of sound which most people find completely irresistible.

What makes dubstep unique is its ability to create a sense of tension and release through its masterful manipulation of bass and rhythm.

It’s one of those sub-genres that hit hard both physically and emotionally, which is why it’s so renowned.

#20. Trance

Trance is a genre that originated in the early 1990s, known for its repetitive melodic phrases and hypnotic rhythms that are designed to put listeners into a trance-like state. 

Yes, even more so than Techno (and most of the other electronic music genres).

It typically features tempos between 125 and 150 BPM, with long build-ups that lead to euphoric, uplifting drops that EDM is famous for.

Notable artists like Armin Van Buuren has really made this sub-genre popular.

Trance music often incorporates: 

• Sweeping pads
• Arpeggiated synths
• Soaring melodies

It creates an expansive and emotional soundscape. 

Unlike other forms of dance music, trance places a strong emphasis on melody and atmosphere, often creating a long-lasting emotional journey for the listener. 

What sets trance apart from other electronic music genres is its ability to evoke deep feelings of euphoria and connection through its intricate layered sounds.

As well as its heavy focus on creating an immersive, almost spiritual experience on the dancefloor.

#21. Future Bass

Future bass is a genre that emerged in the 2010s, blending elements of: 

• Trap
• Dubstep
• House music

It creates a sound that is both melodic and bass-heavy. 

Future Bass is made up of lush, vibrant synths, pitched vocal chops, and modulated basslines that create a sense of unparalleled movement and energy.

 Future bass tracks often feature uplifting, feel-good melodies paired with heavy drops, making it a popular choice for both radio play and festival stages. 

Its distinctive sound comes from its use of bright, shimmering synths and dope percussion, which give it a modern, polished feel. 

What makes future bass particularly interesting is its ability to balance emotional, melodic content with powerful, bass-driven drops.

This makes it a genre that appeals to a wide range of electronic music fans all around the world, and will certainly continue to do so.

#22. Hardstyle

Hardstyle is a genre of electronic dance music that is characterized by its fast-paced tempos, typically around 150 BPM, and it’s hard-hitting, distorted kicks. 

It typically features reverse basslines, intense melodies, and aggressive synths 一 creating a sound that is both powerful and energetic. 

Hardstyle originated in the Netherlands in the early 2000s and quickly gained popularity in the European rave scene.

Its relentless energy even made it a staple at events like Defqon.1, which is legendary.

Plus, it often incorporates elements of hardcore techno, with a focus on creating an intense, almost aggressive atmosphere, which is pretty cool.

What sets hardstyle apart is its ability to maintain a high level of intensity while still incorporating melodic elements, making it a genre that is both hard-hitting and emotionally impactful.

#23. Jungle

Jungle is a genre that emerged in the early 1990s in the UK, known for its fast breakbeats, deep basslines, and complex, syncopated rhythms. 

It is often seen as a precursor to drum and bass, but it has its own distinct sound as well that incorporates elements of reggae, dub, and dancehall. 

Jungle tracks typically feature rapid, chopped-up breakbeats, often sampled from classic funk tracks, layered with deep sub-bass and dub-style effects. 

It’s raw, gritty sound is balanced by its use of soulful vocals and atmospheric samples, creating a soundscape that is both chaotic and deeply rhythmic. 

What makes jungle unique is its ability to blend the frenetic energy of breakbeats with the deep, rolling basslines of dub, creating a sound that is both intense and immersive.

#24. Breakbeat

Breakbeat is a genre of electronic music that is defined by its use of non-4/4 drum patterns, often incorporating complex, syncopated rhythms.

Ones that differ from the steady, repetitive beats of house and techno. 

Originating from the amen break sections of funk and hip hop tracks, breakbeat became a main element in the development of jungle, drum and bass, and big beat. 

It’s known for its energetic, chopped-up beats, which are typically sampled from old funk, soul, or jazz records and rearranged to create a dynamic, rhythmic flow. 

Side note, if you want to know how to use samples creatively, we’ve got you covered.

Breakbeat’s versatility allows it to be fused with various other genres (from hip hop to dance music), which makes it a key component in many forms of electronic music. 

What sets breakbeat apart from other electronic music genres is its emphasis on rhythm and groove 一 creating a driving, kinetic energy.

One that propels tracks forward in a way that few other sub-genres can match.

#25. Synthwave

Synthwave draws heavily from the sounds and aesthetics of the 1980s, blending electronic music with nostalgic elements of: 

• Synth-pop
• New wave
• Film soundtracks

It’s loved for its use of vintage synthesizers, drum machines, and reverb-heavy production techniques, creating a sound that is both retro and futuristic. 

Synthwave often evokes a sense of nostalgia for the 1980s, with its neon-soaked visuals, cinematic soundscapes, and anthemic melodies that go back to the era’s pop music culture. 

NOTE: It has made a comeback in recent years, gaining popularity in both the music and film industries, with many notable artists incorporating synthwave elements all day.

Synthwave really has a unique ability to transport listeners to a bygone era, while still feeling fresh and contemporary, which isn’t as easy as you’d think.

#26. Bass House

Bass house is a sub-genre of house music that combines the infectious grooves of house with the heavy, wobbling basslines of dubstep (and other bass-centric genres). 

It emerged in the mid-2010s and quickly went viral for its high-energy sound that is both danceable and hard-hitting. 

Bass house tracks are characterized by their punchy, four-on-the-floor beats, gritty basslines, and a focus on creating massive drops that energize the dancefloor. 

It incorporates elements from electro house and future house 一 blending them with deep, bumpin’ bass to create a sound that is both dynamic and powerful. 

It’s actually a super fun vibe that most people react well to.

What sets bass house apart is its ability to maintain the rhythmic groove of house music while infusing it with the raw energy and intensity of bass music. 

This makes it a favorite at both underground clubs and major EDM music festivals that love the house scene and want to throw their hands up.

#27. Electro Swing

Electro swing is a genre that fuses the vintage sounds of swing and jazz music from the 1920s-1940s with modern electronic production techniques. 

It’s all about: 

• Upbeat tempos
• Lively horn sections
• Syncopated rhythms

Which is, by the way, often combined with electronic beats, basslines, and samples. 

Electro swing brings the nostalgic charm of swing music into the 21st century 一 creating a fun, danceable sound.

It appeals to both fans of vintage music and modern electronic dance music, so it really transcends not only time, but eras.

Plus those jazz samples and swing records mixed with contemporary production creates a sound that is both familiar and fresh. 

What makes electro swing unique is its ability to bridge the gap between past and present, blending the elegance and sophistication of swing with the energy and excitement of EDM music. 

Bottom line, it’s both timeless and cutting-edge, which is awesome.

#28. Industrial

Last on our list of electronic music genres is Industrial music.

Industrial music is a genre that emerged in the late 1970s, characterized by its abrasive, mechanical sound and its use of unconventional instruments and noise. 

It blends elements of electronic music, punk, and experimental music 一 creating a sound that is both harsh and confrontational. 

Industrial tracks typically feature distorted synthesizers, heavy percussion, and samples of machinery or other non-musical sounds.

It brings that highly-favored, intense dystopian feel that’s a whole vibe.

The aesthetic usually reflects themes of dehumanization, technology, and, like I mentioned, dystopia, making it a powerful medium for social and political commentary. 

What sets industrial music apart is its willingness to push the boundaries of what music can be when it comes to electronic music genres, using noise and dissonance to create a sound that is as challenging as it is captivating.

Electronic Music Genres: Final Thoughts

Electronic music genres all deserve recognition for their distinct sounds, vibes, and cultural impact, which is why we broke them all down today.

This way, you can really understand what makes each one unique 一 from the driving energy of House to the intricate soundscapes of IDM, and everything in between. 

They all contribute to the diverse landscape of electronic music and have the ability to bring powerful emotions to the table, inspire creativity, and keep the dancefloor alive. 

It just comes down to preference of sound and style because each genre offers something special for different moods and moments.

To help you create EDM tracks that really stand out, don’t miss out on the legendary Free EDM Drum Kit, which includes over 45 drum samples, loops, and MIDIs.

It’ll make your tracks hit harder than ever before, guaranteed.

With this pack, your EDM tracks will always be crisp, clear, and polished to perfection. 

If you want to create tracks that are punchy, infectious, and dominate the dancefloor (which I’m sure you do), this pack is perfect for you. 

The best part about these royalty-free sounds is they cater to all the most popular electronic music genres, so you’ll certainly find sounds that match your unique style.

Remember, the key to producing great EDM music is understanding what makes each genre tick and using that knowledge to create something that resonates with your audience. 

Keep experimenting, stay inspired, and most importantly, have fun with the process because that’s really the key.

Until next time…