For a long time, the terms genre and style have been used interchangeably to describe different types of music. However, these terms are distinct, playing specific roles in defining and categorizing musical expressions.

A music genre is a more rigid and broad classification system that groups music based on shared characteristics or elements like rhythm, structure, and cultural origin. This gives listeners a general idea of what to expect from a piece of music categorized into a specific genre.

Exploring various genres, Afrobeats features a 3/2 clave pattern, Reggae showcases offbeat rhythms and bass-driven melodies, Amapiano incorporates a shaker rhythm and piano rolls, and Afrohouse follows a consistent 4/4 pattern with a club kick. With these insights, one can have a better grasp or understanding of the foundational elements of a music piece.

While genres define the overarching category, music styles refer to the distinct/personalized manner or technique in which a music piece is performed or created. A style could be a rhythm, an element in a genre, or a personalized fusion in a piece of music. It is more flexible and is influenced by an artist’s interpretation, cultural background, or creative choice. Also, these styles are not entirely exclusive to an artist or group. Most of these styles have been adopted by a generation of artists, resulting in the creation of a more rigid subgenre.

A good example is the Highlife music, which originated in Ghana during the 1950s, the percussive style was changed when it gained popularity in Nigeria. Ghanaian highlife music incorporates the distinctive Ghanaian Cowbell percussive style. This style (rhythm) follows a 6-10-14 pattern in a 16-hour clock format, creating a 4-bar chain. "Saana" by Ebo Taylor helps one understand this style.

In contrast, Nigerian highlife music utilizes a 3/2 or 2/3 clave percussive pattern, which operates on a 16-3-6-10-12 rhythm in the same 16-hour clock framework. To understand this rhythm, listen to "Nwannem Ebezina" by Chief Osita Osadebe.

With the above example, one could define style as an element of a genre/music piece. Other instances where a style has become a broader culmination of a compound genre can be seen in Congolese rumba, with Franco Luambo Makiadi's inclusion of the sebene instrumental section and Meridjo Belobi's creation of the cavacha rhythm.

While genres and styles are distinct, they are not mutually exclusive. A single piece of music can belong to a specific genre and multiple styles. For example, a song might be categorized as Hip hop which is a genre, while having drill and trap infused in it as the styles. This interplay between the two allows for a diverse musical landscape.

In African music, distinguishing between these terms is crucial because it highlights the continent’s diverse musical expressions. Genres often serve as cultural identifiers, connecting people to their roots and helping point out expected elements of a music category. At the same time, styles showcase the growth, innovation, and adaptability of African artists.

Recognizing the difference between the two enriches our understanding of the continent's music depth and impact on global culture.

The terms genre and style have always been used interchangeably to categorize music. This article sets clear boundaries between the two terms.

Music Genre and Style - Same or Different?

The terms genre and style have always been used interchangeably to categorize music. This article sets clear boundaries between the two terms.

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