As we leave behind a tumultuous 2020, the music industry is looking towards the future with hope and anticipation. With new technologies emerging and artists constantly pushing boundaries, it’s an exciting time to be a part of this dynamic industry. To help you stay ahead of the curve, we’ve gathered insights from industry experts on the top music trends that will dominate in 2021. From R&B/Soul to New Age and everything in between, get ready for some predictions that are sure to rock your world!
R&B/Soul Music
R&B/Soul music has undergone a major evolution over the past few years, incorporating elements from various genres to create a unique sound. In 2021, we can expect this trend to continue with artists exploring new ways to blend styles and experiment with their sounds.
One of the most notable trends in R&B/Soul music is the return of live instrumentation. After years of relying on electronic beats and samples, many artists are now turning back towards using real instruments like horns, strings and pianos. This shift is giving R&B/Soul songs a more organic feel that resonates with listeners.
Another exciting development in R&B/Soul is the emergence of young artists who are challenging traditional gender norms in their music. Female singers like H.
E.
R., Jorja Smith and Kehlani have been making waves with songs that explore themes related to love, heartbreak and empowerment from a distinctly female perspective. Meanwhile male singers like Frank Ocean and Sampha have also gained popularity for their emotional vulnerability and willingness to express themselves freely through their lyrics.
It’s clear that R&B/Soul will remain one of the most dynamic genres in 2021 as it continues to evolve its sound while staying true to its roots.
Hip-Hop/Rap Music
Hip-Hop/Rap music has been one of the most popular genres in recent years, and 2021 will be no different. Industry experts predict that Hip-Hop/Rap music is going to continue dominating the charts this year.
One of the biggest trends in Hip-Hop/Rap is collaboration between artists. It’s becoming more common for rappers to team up with other musicians from different genres, creating unique sounds and styles. This trend was evident last year with collaborations such as “WAP” by Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion and “Laugh Now Cry Later” by Drake feat. Lil Durk.
Another trend in Hip-Hop/Rap music is the emphasis on lyricism and storytelling. Many rappers are showcasing their talents as wordsmiths, using intricate wordplay and vivid imagery to convey their messages. Kendrick Lamar, J Cole, and Nas are some examples of artists who have mastered this craft.
Social commentary continues to be a significant theme in Hip-Hop/Rap music today. Rappers use their platform to shed light on issues affecting society such as police brutality or political corruption.
It’s clear that Hip-Hop/Rap will remain at the forefront of popular culture in 2021 due to its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
Pop Music
Pop music has always been a staple in the music industry, and it’s no surprise that it will continue to dominate the charts in 2021. This year, we can expect to see more collaborations between pop artists and producers from other genres.
One of the biggest trends in pop music is the fusion of different styles such as R&B, hip-hop, and electronic dance music (EDM). This trend has been evident for a few years now with popular artists like Ariana Grande and Dua Lipa incorporating these elements into their songs.
Another trend in pop music for 2021 is nostalgia. We have seen this with Taylor Swift’s re-recordings of her earlier albums and Olivia Rodrigo’s “Drivers License” which pays tribute to early 2000s emo-pop.
In terms of lyrics, we can expect more introspective themes from pop artists this year. With the pandemic affecting everyone across the globe, many people are looking for comfort through art. Music provides an escape for many individuals who may be struggling during these challenging times.
There are certainly exciting things happening within Pop Music right now!
New Age Music
New Age Music is a genre that’s often associated with relaxation, meditation and spirituality. It emerged in the 1960s and 1970s as an offshoot of various spiritual movements such as Transcendental Meditation and Yoga.
New Age Music incorporates elements from different cultures around the world, including Asian, African and Native American music. The use of natural sounds like birds chirping or waves crashing are also common in this genre.
In recent years, New Age Music has undergone a transformation by incorporating modern electronic sounds. This fusion of traditional instruments with contemporary beats has made it more accessible to younger listeners who may not have been drawn to the genre before.
Many artists are now experimenting with New Age Music by mixing it with other genres like rock or even hip-hop. This experimentation is giving rise to new sub-genres within New Age Music such as “ambient pop” or “electronic folk.”
New Age Music is evolving rapidly thanks to its ability to adapt and incorporate new sounds into its repertoire while still maintaining its core essence of promoting peace, relaxation and introspection.
Holiday Music
Holiday music is a genre that has been around for decades and continues to be popular every year. From classic carols to modern pop songs, holiday music encompasses a wide variety of styles and traditions.
One reason why holiday music is so beloved is its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy. Many people grew up listening to the same Christmas albums year after year, creating memories that are tied to certain songs or artists.
But holiday music isn’t just limited to Christmas; there are also songs for Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other winter holidays celebrated around the world. These songs often reflect cultural traditions and can introduce listeners to different musical styles they may not have heard before.
In recent years, there has been increased diversity in the holiday music scene with more artists from various backgrounds releasing new tracks each season. This trend provides an opportunity for representation while expanding the genre’s reach beyond traditional western cultures.
Holiday music remains a staple during the winter months bringing cheer and happiness into our lives.
Predictions for the Future of Music in 2021
As we enter into a new year, the music industry is already buzzing with anticipation for what’s to come. While no one can predict the future with complete accuracy, there are a few predictions that industry experts have made based on current trends and patterns.
One prediction is that live streaming concerts will continue to grow in popularity as artists find new ways to connect with fans during the ongoing pandemic. Virtual events such as livestreamed festivals and online meet-and-greets will become more common and provide opportunities for musicians to engage with their audience from anywhere in the world.
Another trend expected this year is an increased focus on diversity and representation within music. This not only includes diverse voices being heard but also behind-the-scenes efforts towards greater inclusivity within studios, labels, and other areas of the industry.
As digital streaming continues its dominance over physical sales, expect technology advancements like artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to play a bigger role in how listeners discover new songs or artists they may enjoy. The use of AI could revolutionize how artists promote themselves by using data-driven insights to create targeted marketing campaigns.
Many experts believe that socially conscious lyrics addressing important issues such as racial injustice and climate change will become even more prominent in 2021. As society continues to grapple with these issues, music has always been an outlet for people looking for hope or inspiration – so we can definitely expect it to remain an important part of our lives moving forward.
Conclusion
As we move forward into 2021, the music industry is sure to continue evolving and producing new sounds. From R&B/Soul to Hip-Hop/Rap, Pop, New Age, and Holiday music – each genre has something special to offer.
Industry experts predict that in the coming year, there will be even more emphasis on authenticity and inclusivity in music. With social media platforms becoming a more significant part of artists’ lives than ever before, there’s no limit to what creative minds can achieve.
The world of streaming services also continues its rapid growth trajectory. With this comes an increased focus on creating innovative ways for artists to connect with their fans through virtual events and experiences.
All in all, 2021 promises some exciting trends for music lovers globally. As we eagerly await what the future holds for our favorite genres, let us embrace these changes as they come with open arms!
