The world is filled with different types of music because it is filled with different kinds of people. From music genres to lists of music styles, discover how many types of music there are in the world.
Top Music Genres in the World
An exhaustive list of musical genres from around the world is nearly impossible to create because there is no universally accepted way of classifying types of music. However, these are the top recorded music genres in the world.
- Classical
- Country
- Electronic dance music (EDM)
- Hip-hop
- Indie rock
- Jazz
- K-pop
- Metal
- Oldies
- Pop
- Rap
- Rhythm & blues (R&B)
- Rock
- Techno
Major Types of African Music
African music can vary widely by region, but common instruments include drums, musical bows, xylophones, and rattles. Music and dance go together in many African cultures and help mark important life events while bringing communities together.
- Afrobeats
- Benga
- Chimurenga
- Ethio-jazz
- Gnawa/ethno-pop/gwani blues
- Highlife
- Hiplife
- Inkiranya
- Juju
- Majika
- Mbalax
- Ndombolo
- Palm wine
- Rababah
- Shaabi
- Somali jazz
- Soukou/Congolese rumba
- Ubongo
- Zilin
- Zouglou
Major Types of Asian Music
Traditional Asian music includes a lot of flutes and pipes, drums, and unique stringed instruments. The traditional approach to music in many Asian countries was scientific, or methodical. Modern Asian pop music keeps the simplicity of traditional music, but adds modern appeal.
- Baila
- Bollywood
- Carnatic
- Chinese folk
- Chinese traditional opera
- C-pop
- Dangdut
- Gagaku court music
- Goa trance
- Hindustani
- Japanese folk
- J-pop
- K-trot
- Punjabi
- Rafi
- Raga rock
- V-pop
Major Types of Caribbean Music
Caribbean music often features a mix of African and European music styles. The most popular instruments used in Caribbean music are drums and other percussion instruments and different types of guitars. Dance and music go hand-in-hand.
- Calypso
- Dancehall
- Mambo
- Mento
- Merengue
- Reggae
- Rocksteady
- Salsa
- Ska
- Soca
- Steel band music/pan music
- Zouk
Major Types of European Music
Traditional European music is best exemplified by the classical music genre, as many noted classical musicians were from Europe. Modern European music incorporates a mix of influences from around the world.
- A capella
- Celtic chant
- Drum & bass
- Euro-disco
- Flamenco
- Glitch pop
- Grime
- Opera
- Polka
- Trance
Major Types of Latin and South American Music
Popular and common types of music in Latin America and South America are often referred to as Latin music. Traditional and modern Latin music often feature upbeat tunes, are heavily influenced by a variety of cultures, and include complex rhythms.
- Bachata
- Balada
- Bossa nova
- Compas
- Cumbia
- Mariachi
- Mexican
- Mesitzo
- Ranchera
- Reggaeton
- Samba
- Tango
- Vallenatto
Major Types of North American Music
Traditional American music and Canadian music features drums and simple instruments used by Native tribes. Modern American music incorporates influences from a variety of cultures.
- American folk
- Bluegrass
- Blues
- Canadian folk
- Gospel
- Industrial
- Swing
- Tejano
- Zydeco
Music to Move You
There are thousands of types of music played around the world. You can learn more about specific types of music by learning about iconic musicians like Bob Marley or modern musicians like Rihanna. If you're looking to have some fun with music, explore some interesting music facts.