Latino EDM Subgenres That Are Shaping The Scene

Electronic dance music is a genre of music that is difficult to define but it is commonly known for its energizing and danceable tracks that are produced digitally. Approaching EDM with this broad definition expands the idea of what electronic dance music is or could be. Additionally, EDM’s massive popularity contributes to an even wider definition, as EDM holds influences in so many musical genres that go past the bounds of what it is commonly thought of when we think of EDM.

When we think of EDM, it is common to focus primarily on the US and European scenes as the history of EDM holds deep roots in these two areas. House, techno, DNB, trance, and dubstep are some of the main genres that have a spotlight in the wide spectrum of subgenres. As the scene grows so does the extensive list of EDM subgenres. Now that EDM has stretched to all corners of the world, each diverse community brings their own unique styles, perspectives, and cultural influences into the music.

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Latinos have shaped electronic dance music by fusing electronic sounds with culture and this has created a new wave of electronic music. Whether creating new electronic music genres or adding influences of other latino music genres into well-known edm subgenres, latinos have changed and continue to change the game. The genres of music below are a representation of these contributions and express how latinos are shaping and electrifying the edm scene.

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Latin House 

Latin house is one well known subgenre of house music that had an explosive rise in the last few years. Latin house spread through the scene like wildfire, with house djs all over the world producing and playing iconic tracks on the dancefloor. This revamped version of house music becomes transformed by latino rhythms and influences. Some tracks even feature samples of popular latino songs and mixes them into the energetic house beats. Latin house popularity is attributed to its addictive and refreshing style.

Guaracha

Originating from Colombia, Guaracha is a high energy genre with bouncy rhythms and electrified beats. Other common names include zapateo and aleteo. Guaracha blends EDM with Colombian music and culture. This genre of electronic music brings together influences from tribal house, cumbia, and other latin percussions. Guaracha is a buzzing with explosive drops that get you moving. Guaracha has an already booming scene in Colombia but is rising in popularity across the globe.

Neoperreo

Neoperreo is a relatively newer genre of music and it is a subgenre that derives from reggaeton. The genre keeps the foundational flow of old school reggaeton while blending in experimental and alternative electronic influences. Neoperreo has a futuristic and complex sound design that mixes heavy bass, distorted dembow and reggaeton beats, hyperpop and lo-fi aesthetics, industrial beats, and dark rhythms. Neoperreo emerged from the underground scenes across Latin America and can even be described as having its own subculture connected to the music. Neoperreo continues to grow in popularity everyday.

Moombahton

Now let’s take it back to the “golden age” of EDM, where Moombahton was a mainstage staple. Moombahton is a genre of music created from electro house that was slowed down and blended with heavy reggaeton influences and trap beats. Moombahton was all the rage in the early 2010’s, where popular DJs like Skrillex, Major Lazer, Bro Safari, etc. blasted the sounds on dancefloors around the globe. Moombahton is a classic genre that is guaranteed to get a crowd moving to this day.

Honorable Mentions: Dembow & Cumbia Sonidera

Dembow and cumbia sonidera are two genres of music whose sound may not fit the traditional idea of what EDM is, but they are two genres made digitally that fit the definition of electronic music.  Dembow coming from the Dominican Republic has energizing bouncy rhythms with rapid-fire drums and pounding bass. It is a genre of music that brings energy. Cumbia sonidera uses electronic instruments and synthesizers to revolutionize traditional cumbias. There are also DJs called sonideros, that blend and manipulate the tracks in live mixes. These two genres are an inventive form of electronic music that bring a special dynamism. 

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EDM goes far beyond what it is perceived as and it has many influences in much of modern music. Latino contributions and influences to EDM show how much depth there is in the genre and showcases the endless possibilities of electronic music. Latino EDM genres of music are a reflection of the diverse cultures and communities. Which brings innovation and expands the definition of EDM more with each new genre and subgenre of music created. Each genre above has a rich history and unique style, showcasing the variety of electronic music.