EDM, or electronic dance music, has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry over the past decade With its high-energy beats and euphoric drops, it has captured the hearts and minds of millions around the world However, there is a growing concern among fans and industry insiders alike about what has been dubbed “EDM erosion,” a phenomenon in which the music’s appeal is slowly but surely beginning to wane.
So what is causing this erosion, and what can be done about it?
One of the main culprits behind EDM’s erosion is its own success The genre exploded in popularity in the early 2010s, thanks in part to the rise of festivals such as Ultra Music Festival, Electric Daisy Carnival, and Tomorrowland EDM became the music of choice for a generation of young people seeking an escape from the stresses of daily life As with any cultural movement, however, the more mainstream EDM became, the less appealing it was to many of its original fans.
Another factor contributing to EDM’s erosion is the genre’s lack of innovation There is no denying that EDM can be incredibly formulaic, with many tracks featuring the same build-drop-repeat structure While this formula has been incredibly successful in the past, it has also led to a lack of creativity in the genre Newer artists, in particular, are often criticized for recycling the same sounds and ideas that have already been done to death.
Perhaps most concerning of all, however, is the commodification of EDM In recent years, major corporations and brands have begun to throw their weight behind the genre Festival lineups are increasingly dominated by mainstream artists, while advertising and sponsorships have become ubiquitous at EDM events edm erosion. While these partnerships can provide much-needed financial support for artists and events, they also run the risk of stripping the genre of its authenticity and turning it into nothing more than a marketing ploy.
So how can EDM fans and industry insiders work to combat this erosion?
One solution is to embrace diversity within the genre itself EDM is a broad term that encompasses many different styles, from techno and house to trance and dubstep By embracing this diversity, fans can discover new artists and sounds that they may have otherwise overlooked Promoters and event organizers can also make a concerted effort to book more diverse lineups, featuring up-and-coming artists alongside established headliners.
Another solution is to push for innovation within the genre This can be done by supporting artists who are willing to take risks and experiment with new sounds and ideas Fans can also seek out smaller, underground events that are more likely to showcase innovative and boundary-pushing music.
Ultimately, however, it is up to the community to decide what they want EDM to be Some may be content with the genre’s current state, while others may want to push for more significant changes The important thing is to have an open and honest dialogue about the challenges facing EDM and to work together to find solutions that benefit everyone.
In conclusion, EDM erosion is a real phenomenon that is threatening the long-term viability of the genre However, it is not too late to turn things around By embracing diversity, innovation, and community, fans and industry insiders alike can work to ensure that EDM remains a vibrant and vital force in the music industry for years to come.