It’s 2019, And Single Genres Of Music Are Dead
Start writing a post
Music

It’s 2019, And Single Genres Of Music Are Dead

A popular trend of mixing different genres into a single song is on the rise, and people are calling it genre-bending.

184
It’s 2019, And Single Genres Of Music Are Dead

Whether you were at a frat party, jamming to new music in the car or anywhere doing absolutely anything, you've heard Lil Nas X's song "Old Town Road." The catchy tune has remained atop the Billboard Hot 100 for the second week in a row, and the world doesn't know whether to call it a disgrace of a country song or the worst rap song to exist. I call it one of the most successful examples of a cross-genre song.

Genre-bending, or the concept of mixing two or more genres of music into a single song, has been around for awhile, but it has gained popularity in recent years.

This video published by NPR Music demonstrates genre-bending for over 15 minutes.

Yo-Yo Ma, Edgar Meyer, Chris Thile And Stuart Duncan: NPR Music Tiny Desk ConcertYouTube

Not only is creating cross-genre tracks a reflection of a versatile artist, but it is a skill that demonstrates creativity, thoughtfulness and talent. Artists like Mac Miller (R.I.P.), Kanye West and Jesse Rutherford from The Neighbourhood use genre-blending in much of their music, and they do it well.

Mac Miller's song "2009" from his most recent album Swimming begins with a classical intro before beginning the talk rap tune that he did so well.

Kanye weaves the vintage song "Bound" released in 1971 and "Sweet Nothin's" from 1960 into his rap song "Bound 2". According to Genius, the soulful rap tune peaked at 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Jesse's "Tunnelovision" begins as an upbeat rock song but transitions into a trap-like rap intermission at 0:41 before returning back to rock-n-roll.

While some are opposed to cross-genre songs, others are welcoming the style with open arms. It's refreshing, it's pushing boundaries and it might even save the music industry.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

94551
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments