If you asked me to describe myself, I would say I'm a pretty sheltered person. I grew up in a very conservative and traditional household. It wasn't up until college that I began to finally branch out into the real world and broaden my horizons.

Of course, much of that had to do with the friends I made and the people I surrounded myself around. In fact, something that many of my friends and even mere acquaintances introduced to me was a genre of music I never would've listened to before.

And that would be electronic dance music, more commonly known as EDM.

Like most people, I had a general idea of what EDM was and to be honest, I didn't think much of it. My music taste just didn't include it. It was another genre to me and nothing too significant.

I came to realize how absolutely wrong I was.

My perception started to change in the past few months as I heard more about raves, music festivals, and upcoming EDM artists.

I found myself tentatively exploring this music scene, starting with a last minute and spontaneous trip to go see Porter Robinson and Madeon on the Shelter Live Tour. That in itself was an extraordinary experience and I could easily say it was one of those beautiful moments where I felt truly happy.

You may think that EDM is one huge genre, but in actuality, it is comprised of a smaller subset. EDM is essentially a large umbrella and under it falls a great variety of subgenres. This is another factor that makes EDM special because it allows people from all walks of life to find a subgenere that appeals to them.

Music is a universal language that speaks to people of all cultures and backgrounds, no matter how diverse they may be. It has a unique way of relating to humanity's emotions where other forms of art cannot. To me, music is the connecting piece of all our souls.

For most EDM lovers, this type of music is more than just a genre. Some artists' music are so powerful and sentimental that they can be classified by feelings and what they do to the audience emotionally.

For instance, going back to my experience on the Shelter Tour, I cannot fully articulate how I felt that night...but it was transcendentally magical and blissful. There was something about being around the people you love most and letting yourself go in the music.

In a sense, EDM can be a huge aspect of a person's life and actually influence their mentality on life. I asked a couple of my friends about their personal experience and all of them told me the same thing: that it has allowed them to have a more optimistic and happier lifestyle.

This actually relates to a common mantra associated with the EDM culture, which is PLUR. This is an acronym for Peace, Love, Unity, Respect. For some, PLUR can be the basis and core of one's values and beliefs in regards to the EDM scene or just everyday life.

But even more so, this particular mantra can be seen especially at shows where people are constantly looking out for each other and taking care of one another. In the end, everyone is there to listen to good music and have a great time together despite all their differences.

Music is the bridge that connects them.

In fact, the music is so moving and strong that it has brought stadiums together in unity. They sing, dance, cry...they bond together.

These shows are a place of no judgment, and every person is able to be themselves and show their true colors. (If you've ever been to a rave, you'll know that there are all types of interesting people.) You can be raw, vulnerable, and in complete touch with your emotions.

It is an environment to make new connections, build meaningful relationships, and create everlasting memories.

"Remember: Life is all about those moments you never forget." -Above & Beyond