Music is always evolving, and 2023 is no exception. From synth wave to drift phone, from Afrobeats to musica Mexicana, this year has seen the rise of new and exciting genres that reflect the diverse tastes and cultures of music lovers around the world. In this article, we will explore some of the emerging music trends that have shaped the soundtrack of 2023.
Synthwave: Retro-futuristic vibes
Synthwave is a genre that draws inspiration from the electronic music and sci-fi aesthetics of the 1980s. It features synthesizers, drum machines, and retro sound effects that create a nostalgic and futuristic atmosphere. Synthwave has been popularized by TV shows like Stranger Things and movies like Drive, as well as by artists like The Weeknd, Playboi Carti, and Madonna. Synthwave is also a favorite among video game and anime fans, who enjoy its immersive and cinematic soundscapes.
Some of the synthwave artists to check out in 2023 are:
- Rasure, who combines synth-wave with rock and metal influences
- Ben Elson, who creates upbeat and catchy synth-pop tunes
- Oh the City, who blends synth-wave with ambient and chillout elements
Drift phone: Fast and furious beats
Drift Phone is a subgenre of trap music that originated in Russia in the late 2010s. It combines hip-hop, vaporwave, and lo-fi aesthetics to create fast and furious beats that are perfect for drifting and racing. Drift phones are often accompanied by visuals of cars, neon lights, and anime characters, creating a sense of speed and adrenaline. Drift phones have gained popularity among online car culture and TikTok users, who use them to soundtrack their videos and challenges.
Some of the drift-phone artists to check out in 2023 are:
- DJ Yung Vamp, who is considered the pioneer of drift phone
- Tommy Ice, who mixes drift phone with emo rap and pop punk
- Lil Toe, who adds humor and personality to his drift phone tracks
Afrobeats: Global groove
Afrobeats is a genre that fuses African rhythms, melodies, and instruments with pop, hip-hop, and dance music. It originated in Nigeria in the early 2000s but has since spread across the continent and the world, becoming one of the most influential and diverse genres of the decade. Afrobeats is known for its catchy hooks, vibrant vocals, and infectious dance moves, as well as for its social and political messages. Afrobeats has also crossed over to the mainstream, collaborating with artists like Selena Gomez, Drake, and Beyoncé.
Some of the Afrobeats artists to check out in 2023 are:
- Rema, who became the first African artist to join Spotify’s Billions Club with his hit “Calm Down (Remix)”
- Wizkid, who won a Grammy for his collaboration with Beyoncé on “Brown Skin Girl”
- Tiwa Savage, who is dubbed the “Queen of Afrobeats” and has worked with artists like Sam Smith, Davido, and Young Thug
Musica Mexicana: Regional pride
Musica Mexicana is a broad term that encompasses various genres of Mexican music, such as mariachi, ranchera, norteña, banda, and corridos. These genres are rooted in the traditions, history, and culture of Mexico, and often feature acoustic instruments, vocal harmonies, and storytelling lyrics. Musica Mexicana has been enjoying a surge in popularity in 2023, dominating the global charts and streaming platforms. Musica Mexicana has also evolved and diversified, incorporating elements of pop, rock, hip-hop, and reggaeton.
Some of the musica Mexicana artists to check out in 2023 are:
- Eslabon Armado, who scored one of the biggest hits of the year with “Ella Baila Sola”, featuring Peso Pluma
- Christian Nodal, who won a Latin Grammy for his album “Ayayay!”
- Natalia Lafourcade, who released a critically acclaimed tribute album to the Mexican folk icon Chavela Vargas
Folk: Indie revival
Folk is a genre that is based on the traditional music of various regions and cultures, usually featuring acoustic instruments, simple melodies, and poetic lyrics. Folk has been around for centuries, but it has experienced a revival in 2023, thanks to a slew of indie artists who have released folk-inspired albums. These artists have brought a fresh and modern perspective to the genre, experimenting with different sounds, styles, and themes. Folk has also appealed to a younger and wider audience, who appreciate its authenticity and intimacy.
Some of the folk artists to check out in 2023 are:
- Mitski, who returned with a stunning folk album after a four-year hiatus
- Toro Y Moi, who surprised fans with a stripped-down and soulful folk record
- Noah Kahan, who won the 2024 Best New Artist Grammy for his folk-pop debut album.
