Top EDM Subgenres You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is a vast and diverse genre with countless subgenres, each offering its unique flavor and vibe. While mainstream styles like house, techno, and dubstep dominate the charts, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known subgenres waiting to be explored. Here’s a deep dive into some of the most unique EDM subgenres you’ve probably never heard of—and why they deserve a spot on your playlist.

1. Glitch Hop

• What It Is: A fusion of hip-hop beats with glitchy, electronic sound effects.
• Signature Features: Syncopated rhythms, heavy basslines, and chopped-up samples.
• Why You Should Listen: Glitch hop combines the groove of hip-hop with the experimental edge of electronic music, making it perfect for those who crave funky, unpredictable tracks.
• Artists to Explore: The Glitch Mob, KOAN Sound, Opiuo.

2. Neurofunk

• What It Is: A darker, more complex subgenre of drum and bass.
• Signature Features: Intricate basslines, sci-fi-inspired sounds, and aggressive energy.
• Why You Should Listen: Neurofunk pushes the boundaries of bass music with its futuristic, high-intensity vibe.
• Artists to Explore: Noisia, Black Sun Empire, Phace.

3. Vaporwave

• What It Is: A nostalgic, surreal subgenre blending electronic music with 1980s and 1990s pop culture samples.
• Signature Features: Slow tempos, dreamy synths, and retro sound bites.
• Why You Should Listen: Vaporwave offers a nostalgic escape with its hypnotic, lo-fi aesthetic.
• Artists to Explore: Macintosh Plus, Saint Pepsi, Yung Bae.

4. Psybient

• What It Is: A blend of psychedelic trance and ambient music.
• Signature Features: Relaxing melodies, ethereal soundscapes, and minimal beats.
• Why You Should Listen: Psybient is ideal for meditation, relaxation, or zoning out after a long day.
• Artists to Explore: Shpongle, Carbon Based Lifeforms, Entheogenic.

5. Moombahton

• What It Is: A hybrid of reggaeton and house music, originating in the early 2010s.
• Signature Features: Slower tempos (around 108 BPM), tropical vibes, and rhythmic percussion.
• Why You Should Listen: Moombahton brings the party to the dancefloor with its infectious, danceable grooves.
• Artists to Explore: Dillon Francis, Major Lazer, Dave Nada.

6. Footwork

• What It Is: A high-energy subgenre of electronic music from Chicago, heavily influenced by juke and hip-hop.
• Signature Features: Rapid tempos, chopped vocal samples, and syncopated beats.
• Why You Should Listen: Footwork’s frenetic rhythms and creative use of samples make it a unique listening experience.
• Artists to Explore: DJ Rashad, Machinedrum, Traxman.

7. Synthwave

• What It Is: A retro-inspired subgenre that channels 1980s synthpop and movie soundtracks.
• Signature Features: Analog synths, nostalgic melodies, and neon-drenched aesthetics.
• Why You Should Listen: Synthwave captures the essence of 1980s nostalgia while feeling modern and fresh.
• Artists to Explore: Kavinsky, Perturbator, Carpenter Brut.

8. Witch House

• What It Is: A dark, atmospheric subgenre combining elements of EDM, goth, and industrial music.
• Signature Features: Slow tempos, haunting vocals, and eerie soundscapes.
• Why You Should Listen: Witch house is perfect for those who love mysterious and moody vibes in their music.
• Artists to Explore: Salem, White Ring, oOoOO.

9. Chillstep

• What It Is: A mellower take on dubstep, focusing on soothing beats and melodic progressions.
• Signature Features: Subtle basslines, ethereal vocals, and relaxed tempos.
• Why You Should Listen: Chillstep offers a laid-back alternative to traditional dubstep, making it great for studying or relaxing.
• Artists to Explore: Blackmill, CMA, Seven Lions.

10. Darkpsy

• What It Is: A subgenre of psytrance with darker, more intense sounds.
• Signature Features: Fast tempos (150+ BPM), distorted synths, and eerie atmospheres.
• Why You Should Listen: Darkpsy is for those who enjoy intense, immersive experiences in their music.
• Artists to Explore: Alienapia, Kindzadza, Psykovsky.

Why Exploring Subgenres Matters

Diving into lesser-known subgenres allows you to:

• Expand Your Musical Horizons: Discover new sounds and styles that you may not encounter in mainstream EDM.
• Support Emerging Artists: Many subgenres are driven by underground producers who rely on dedicated fans.
• Find Your Unique Vibe: With so much variety, you’re bound to find a subgenre that resonates with your personal taste.

How to Discover More Subgenres

1. Follow Niche Playlists: Look for playlists dedicated to specific subgenres on platforms like Spotify or SoundCloud.
2. Explore Music Blogs: Sites like EDM Sauce and Dancing Astronaut often highlight emerging styles and artists.
3. Attend Festivals or Events: Smaller stages at EDM festivals are great places to discover unique subgenres.
4. Engage with Communities: Reddit threads and Discord servers for EDM fans can provide great recommendations.

Conclusion

The world of EDM is filled with hidden gems that go beyond the mainstream. Exploring these unique subgenres not only enhances your appreciation for electronic music but also introduces you to talented artists and fresh sounds. So, take a leap into the unknown, explore these styles, and find the beats that move you. Your next favorite track might be waiting in a subgenre you’ve never heard of before!