Music is often referred to as a universal language because of its ability to connect people from all walks of life and in different parts of the world. With that in mind, it’s understandable why some online casino games have drawn inspiration from music icons by incorporating their popular tunes into the online casino experience.
Legendary musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Ozzy Osbourne and Guns N’ Roses are just a few who have online casino slots named after them. These three have been influential in the music and entertainment industries at large, which is why they’ve cemented themselves as icons in several of the most popular music genres of all time. Below are some genres that are popular right now, ranked by sales, many of which have been inspired by, or evolved from, some of the best music genres of all time. What are you into right now?
Top Music Genres
1. Pop
Pop music is an expansive genre characterized by its catchy melodies, simple lyrics and a strong focus on rhythm. It’s no coincidence then that this genre is the most listened to and accounts for 27% of album sales worldwide.
Pop has continually transformed over the years, adapting to the ever-changing tastes of its audience. However, these core attributes have remained a consistent part of its identity.
Among the pantheon of pop music, several iconic figures have left an indelible mark. Beyoncé, with her distinct blend of R&B (rhythm and blues) and pop, has become a global sensation, renowned for her powerful vocals and dynamic performances.
The influence of boy bands is also noteworthy. From The Beatles and The Beach Boys in the 1960s to NSYNC and Backstreet Boys in the 90s to One Direction in the 2010s, they have persistently been a significant part of the pop culture conversation.
Contemporary pop artists like Olivia Rodrigo, The Weeknd and Taylor Swift have risen to prominence by ingeniously fusing traditional pop components with modern aesthetics. Rodrigo, for instance, intertwines elements of emo and indie rock with her music, while The Weeknd incorporates R&B and electronic dance music influences.
Looking ahead, it’s challenging to predict the exact trajectory of pop music due to its dynamic nature. However, it can be confidently asserted that, with its continuous evolution and adaptability, pop music will sustain its imposing role in the music industry.
2. Hip-Hop and Rap
The emergence of hip-hop and rap in the late 70s and early 80s was met with skepticism and music aficionados dismissed it as a passing fad. Today it makes up 18% of global music sales. Not bad for an inner-city genre born out of necessity rather than comfort.
When you think of hip-hop and rap in this era, mainstream artists such as Drake, Cardi B, Kanye West and Jay-Z may immediately come to mind. Older readers may think of Snoop Dogg, Tupac, Lil’ Kim and Notorious B.I.G. These are just some of the musicians who have been instrumental in making hip-hop and rap as popular as they are today.
Some might even say that these popular music genres extend beyond just music, as they have shaped culture and art forms in areas where they’re most prevalent. Graffiti and freestyling are some elements that are generally associated with these genres, as they’re expressive outlets that were previously used to address people’s socio-political issues and frustrations. These two closely-linked genres are believed to have originated in NYC’s Bronx.
3. Rock
Rock is arguably one of the best music genres to have truly stood the test of time and spawned several variations over the years. When you think of bands like AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses and the Foo Fighters, each has been instrumental in popularizing this music genre in different eras where today it represents 12% of global sales.
It’s widely believed that rock has been around for approximately seven decades, with its roots being traced back to iconic American musician Bill Haley, along with his group, Bill Haley & His Comets, as well as the legendary Elvis Presley.
Fast-forward to 1985, when Gun N’ Roses was born. They’re a rock band that is still active today. In fact, if you’ve visited a casino online, such as Borgata Online, then you may have already come across the Guns N’ Roses-themed slot machine. For some, it’s a bit like attending a live concert or having Axl Rose and Slash as the cheerleaders while you try your luck at the online gambling slots.
Another rock collective that has inspired one of the online slot machines is Motörhead. Some of the band’s most iconic tunes and graphics are featured to enhance the experience.
4. Country
Originating in the Southern United States in the early 20th century, country music is a popular genre with deep roots in traditional folk music. Characterized by simple melodies, catchy lyrics and themes revolving around rural life, love and loss, the genre has evolved significantly over the years and today represents over 10% of global music sales.
Current chart-topping country artists include Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood and Thomas Rhett, all of whom have successfully merged traditional country with contemporary sounds. Combs often integrates elements of bluegrass and rock in his songs, while Underwood’s music takes influences from pop and R&B.
Several artists paved the way for country music’s modern global success. Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and Garth Brooks brought the genre into the mainstream during the 1960s, 70s and 90s, respectively. Their influence continues to resonate today.
Initially, country music emphasized traditional folk and regional styles. However, with its evolution, artists have started exploring modern sounds and production techniques. While traditionally seen as a regional genre popular in the Southern United States, country music has gained global recognition.
Artists worldwide now assimilate elements of country music into their work. The genre, still influenced by other musical styles, has grown increasingly diverse, with artists incorporating everything from rock to hip-hop to electronic dance music into their country creations.
5. Latin
Latin music is a vast and diverse genre that encompasses a wide range of styles and sounds. It’s rooted in the music of Latin America, but it has been influenced by many other cultures and genres over the years. Today, the genre has blossomed and has eclipsed R&B, Christian and electronic, making up 9% of global album sales.
Some of the most popular Latin artists currently charting include Bad Bunny, J Balvin and Karol G. These artists have all found success by blending traditional Latin elements with modern sounds and sensibilities. For example, Bad Bunny’s music is often infused with elements of rap and reggaeton while J Balvin’s music is influenced by R&B and dancehall.
Other popular Latin artists who have laid the groundwork for the genre’s current success include Shakira, Ricky Martin and Selena. These artists helped to bring Latin music to the mainstream in the 1990s and 2000s.
Latin music is a vibrant and exciting genre that’s constantly evolving. It’s a genre that’s influenced by the world around it; it’s always looking for new ways to surprise and entertain its audience.
6. Electronic Dance Music
By virtue of it being rooted in electronic elements, it’s quite clear that Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is a more modern genre of music that emerged in the technological era. However, that’s not to say that everything about it is entirely new. On the contrary, EDM is rooted in disco music, which was popular in the 1970s. One could say that it’s a more modern take on disco. This evolution has contributed massively to the genre claiming 7% of worldwide sales and is continuing on an upward trajectory.
Naturally, EDM boasts some of the biggest dance hits right now, including remixes of songs from popular artists such as Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa. At the forefront of this genre currently are world-renowned musicians like David Guetta, Tiësto and Swedish House Mafia. They are behind the hit singles “Titanium” (featuring Sia,) “Flight 643” and “Don’t You Worry, Child,” respectively.
7. R&B and Soul
This particular genre’s name says a lot about its roots and how it was formed. R&B evolved from a combination of jazz and blues music, which have a more understated rhythmic element.
Some of the world’s favorite ballads and love songs come from artists such as Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston (one of the greatest artists to come out of New Jersey,) Aretha Franklin and Luther Vandross, to name just a few. There are also many other living legends, like Lionel Richie, who have enjoyed success both as part of a group and as a solo artist. These icons have cemented the genre in global terms and this is reflected in the fact that it makes up 6% of sales across the world.
These musical trailblazers paved the way for the R&B musicians of this generation, the likes of Alicia Keys, Bruno Mars, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé and John Legend.
Other Significant Genres That Capture Sales and Ears
K-Pop
Although K-Pop is a term that’s very region-specific and doesn’t necessarily specify a particular genre of music, it’s gradually gaining acclaim all over the world. Pop music is, quite simply, music that is popular at the current time. So, it makes sense that K-Pop music refers to Korean music that is trending.
One of the most memorable K-Pop songs from recent years was PSY’s 2012 hit, “Gangnam Style.” For many, this song (and its colorful music video) was their first introduction to K-Pop, as the song went viral and even sparked a worldwide dance craze.
Some might say that K-Pop took some time to gain momentum in the music industry. Contrary to popular belief, it existed even in the 1990s, when Seo Taiji and Boys took the music scene by storm in the early-to-middle part of that decade. The “Hallyu Wave” (literally translating to “Korean Wave,” referring to a period when the global popularity of Korean media ascended to unprecedented heights) saw artists like 2PM, BoA and Girls’ Generation achieving international fame in the new millennium.
Today, BTS is by far one of the most recognizable bands in K-Pop today. As a group and as individual artists, they boast several awards and hit singles that have been amassed over a relatively short period.
Jazz
Jazz is a music genre with its roots in blues and ragtime. Early forms emerged in the African-American communities of New Orleans. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became synonymous with improvisation, syncopated rhythms and intricate harmonies.
Present-day popular jazz artists like Kamasi Washington, Brad Mehldau and Esperanza Spalding have achieved recognition by infusing traditional jazz with contemporary sounds. Washington, for instance, integrates elements of funk and soul, while Mehldau draws influences from classical music and electronica.
Historical jazz icons like Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Thelonious Monk played instrumental roles in mainstreaming jazz in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Initially, jazz emphasized improvisation and swing, but as it evolved, more complex harmonies and rhythms have been explored.
Previously viewed as a niche genre, jazz has grown in popularity recently, with artists like Washington and Spalding introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Today’s jazz is increasingly diverse, blending elements from genres such as hip-hop, electronica and world music.
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