Exploring how traditional beats from Africa, Asia, and South America have found their way into EDM
The rich tapestry of global music has always been an ever-evolving blend of old and new, with influences crisscrossing borders, cultures, and time. In the world of modern music, Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has become a dominant force. But even within its synthesized beats and digital rhythms, the echoes of ancient and traditional sounds are evident. From the drumming circles of Africa to the bamboo flutes of Asia and the samba rhythms of South America, these traditional sounds have found their way into the heart of EDM.
The Rhythms of Africa: The vast expanse of the African continent isn’t just a mere geographical entity; it pulsates with a rhythmic heart that has been echoing its beats since time immemorial. The music, the instruments, and the beats that arise from this land tell tales of ancient traditions, of civilizations long past, and of a spirit that is indomitable and ageless.
Take a moment to let your senses tune into the hypnotic beats of the Djembe drums that originate from Mali. These drums resonate with tales of old, of stories passed down through countless generations. Not far from there, in the soulful terrains of Zimbabwe, the delicate yet evocative melodies of the Mbira, also known as the thumb piano, capture the essence of the African soul in every pluck. Each sound, each rhythm emanating from these instruments is distinctive, unfiltered, and commands an elemental power.
Modern music, while being a realm of relentless innovation, has also become a melting pot of global influences. In this eclectic blend, the soulful rhythms of Africa have found more than just a mention. Beyond the acclaimed works of Diplo and Major Lazer, who have effortlessly infused African beats into their global anthems, there are torchbearers of genuine African musical essence who are carving their niche on the world stage. Black Coffee, the South African DJ, is a perfect testament to this. In his tracks, one can hear the heartbeat of his homeland. He masterfully weaves tribal beats with traditional Zulu instruments, creating a soundscape that is deep, haunting, and uniquely African within the modern framework of deep house music.
And then there is Nicolas Jaar, an artist who delicately balances his contemporary sounds with age-old traditions. His track “Mi Mujer” is a perfect example of this harmony. In it, he samples a timeless African chant, merging it seamlessly with the pulsating rhythms of modern EDM, creating a bridge between two worlds.
The Melodies of Asia: Asia, with its myriad landscapes, has a musical heritage that mirrors its vastness. From the haunting strains of the Chinese guzheng to the rhythmic beats of the Indonesian gamelan, each nation boasts a unique sonic fingerprint that tells a story of its history, culture, and spirit. Central to this aural tapestry is an underlying ethos of spiritual transcendence and connection to the divine. This deep spiritual resonance, married with the distinctive instrumental sounds of the continent, makes Asian music an alluring foundation for the pulsating beats of Electronic Dance Music (EDM).
Flume, the acclaimed Australian electronic music producer, is one such artist who has tapped into Asia’s rich musical treasure trove. In some of his tracks, listeners are transported to far-off lands as the plucked melodies of the Japanese Koto or the rhythmic cadences of the Indian Tabla meld seamlessly with his electronic synths and beats. This fusion not only introduces a wider audience to these traditional instruments but also creates a bridge between the contemporary and the ancient, the familiar and the exotic.
Another noteworthy mention is the British trance group Above & Beyond. With their track “Anjunabeach,” they delve into the evocative world of Indian classical music. Named after Anjuna in Goa, a place synonymous with trance and beach parties, the track is a harmonious marriage of ethereal Indian sounds and modern trance beats. By drawing inspiration from Asia, these artists pay homage to the age-old traditions of the continent while propelling its melodies into the future, proving that music, like humanity, is bound by no borders.
The Passion of South America: South America’s musical ethos is a captivating blend of passion, vitality, and an infectious rhythm that effortlessly gets people moving. The continent is deeply rooted in rich cultural traditions, which have given birth to some of the world’s most recognizable and soul-stirring musical genres. From the sensual strains of tango to the lively beats of samba, South American music has always possessed an undeniable magnetism. Today, this rhythm-rich legacy is leaving its indelible mark on the Electronic Dance Music (EDM) scene, introducing a vibrant and colorful fusion that sets dance floors alight around the globe.
One cannot discuss South America’s contribution to EDM without mentioning notable figures such as Tiesto and Alok, who have prominently incorporated elements of this continent’s musical vibrancy. However, rising above the cacophony of synthesized beats is Nicola Cruz, an Ecuadorian music producer whose style is unmistakably influenced by the majestic Andean terrain. Drawing inspiration from the mountains and valleys of his homeland, Cruz skillfully weaves traditional instruments like the quena, a South American flute, and the rhythmic bomba drums into his tracks, offering a fresh and innovative sound that is quintessentially South American.
Another artist making waves in the EDM scene is Deorro, a Mexican-American DJ who has seamlessly blended Latin beats into the pulsating world of big room house. His tracks, which resonate with the distinctive tones and rhythms of Central America, are a testament to the continent’s profound influence on global music. From pulsating bass lines to the entrancing allure of indigenous instruments, Deorro’s music encapsulates the fiery spirit and rich heritage of a region that continues to shape and inspire the world of electronic dance music.
Deepening Roots and Newer Branches
As we delve deeper into the nuances of EDM, we find myriad influences that give it depth and variety. Traditional Middle Eastern maqams, the haunting scales of the Balkans, or the lilt of Celtic tunes — they all find their space in this vast soundscape.
Artists like Armin van Buuren have tapped into the Pharaonic vibes of Egypt, while Infected Mushroom often infuses their psychedelic trance with hints of their Israeli heritage.
EDM, in essence, is a culmination. It borrows, respects, and then innovates. By intertwining ancient rhythms with modern synthesis, EDM becomes a dance of epochs, a celebration of humanity’s shared musical heritage. And as it continues to grow, this genre ensures that the traditional beats of yesteryears won’t just survive; they will thrive, pulse, and reverberate in the hearts of the new generation.
