Tropical House

Definition

Tropical House is a subgenre of house music that emerged in the early 2010s, characterized by its laid-back and melodic sound, incorporating elements of reggae, dancehall, and pop music. This genre often features tropical instrumentation such as steel drums, marimbas, and soft synths, evoking a relaxed, summer vibe. Its rise has been fueled by electronic dance music (EDM) influences and collaborations with various artists, creating a unique blend of Caribbean and international styles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tropical House gained mainstream popularity through artists like Kygo and Thomas Jack who helped define its sound with uplifting melodies and beach-themed aesthetics.
2. The genre often uses a slower tempo than traditional house music, typically around 100-115 BPM, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.
3. Tropical House has significantly influenced the global music scene by integrating Caribbean sounds with modern pop and electronic music trends.
4. Collaborations between Tropical House artists and other genres have increased its reach, blending influences from pop stars and creating cross-genre hits.
5. The use of organic instruments like acoustic guitars and tropical percussion is a hallmark of Tropical House, giving it a unique flavor compared to other EDM genres.

Review Questions

• How does Tropical House differentiate itself from other subgenres of house music in terms of sound and instrumentation?
  • Tropical House stands out from other subgenres of house music primarily through its incorporation of laid-back melodies and tropical instrumentation. Unlike deep house which leans towards more complex arrangements, Tropical House often features instruments like steel drums and marimbas that evoke a summer vibe. The slower tempo creates a relaxed atmosphere that sets it apart from the energetic pace typical in many house tracks.
• Evaluate the impact of Tropical House on the global music landscape and its role in popularizing Caribbean musical elements.
  • Tropical House has significantly reshaped the global music landscape by introducing Caribbean musical elements to mainstream audiences. Artists like Kygo have utilized reggae and dancehall influences to create catchy tracks that resonate worldwide. This genre has allowed for greater visibility of Caribbean sounds within pop music, fostering collaborations across genres that blend these influences into a cohesive musical experience.
• Analyze the relationships between Tropical House artists and international musicians in shaping contemporary music trends.
  • The collaborations between Tropical House artists and international musicians have played a critical role in shaping contemporary music trends by merging different musical styles. By working together with pop artists or those from different genres, Tropical House has expanded its reach beyond typical electronic audiences. This cross-pollination not only promotes Caribbean sounds but also introduces new listeners to diverse musical influences, ultimately redefining what popular music can encompass in today's industry.

Related terms

Deep House: A subgenre of house music known for its complex melodies, soulful vocals, and use of jazz and funk samples, often providing a more emotional listening experience.

Reggaeton: A genre that originated in Puerto Rico in the late 1990s, combining Latin rhythms with hip-hop influences, characterized by its catchy beats and danceable melodies.

EDM: Electronic Dance Music is a broad range of percussive electronic music genres produced primarily for nightclubs, raves, and festivals, encompassing various styles including house, techno, and dubstep.