Tropical house
Introduction
Tropical house, often abbreviated as "trop house," is a subgenre of deep house music that emerged in the early 2010s. It is characterized by its warm, laid-back sound, which often incorporates elements of tropical music, such as steel drums, marimbas, and other percussion instruments. The genre is known for its relaxed tempo, typically ranging from 100 to 115 beats per minute, and its use of melodic and harmonic elements that evoke a sense of tropical or beach-like ambiance.
Origins and Development
Tropical house originated as a response to the more aggressive and high-energy sounds of EDM (Electronic Dance Music) that dominated the early 2010s. Artists and producers sought to create a more relaxed and melodic form of dance music that could be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from beach parties to casual listening environments. The genre draws inspiration from various musical styles, including reggae, dancehall, and balearic beat, blending them with modern electronic production techniques.
The term "tropical house" was popularized by Norwegian producer Kygo, who is often credited with bringing the genre to mainstream attention. His remixes and original tracks, characterized by their smooth melodies and tropical instrumentation, quickly gained popularity on platforms like SoundCloud and Spotify.
Musical Characteristics
Tropical house is defined by several key musical characteristics:
Tempo and Rhythm
The tempo of tropical house tracks typically ranges from 100 to 115 beats per minute, making it slower than most other forms of house music. This slower tempo contributes to the genre's relaxed and laid-back feel. The rhythm often incorporates syncopated patterns and off-beat percussion, drawing influence from tropical and Caribbean music styles.
Instrumentation
Instrumentation in tropical house often includes elements such as steel drums, marimbas, flutes, and acoustic guitars. These instruments are used to create a warm and inviting sound that evokes images of tropical landscapes and beach settings. Electronic synthesizers and drum machines are also commonly used to provide a modern and polished production quality.
Melodic and Harmonic Elements
Melody and harmony play a significant role in tropical house music. Tracks often feature catchy and uplifting melodies, with a focus on major keys and simple chord progressions. This melodic approach contributes to the genre's feel-good and positive atmosphere.
Vocals
Vocals in tropical house tracks are typically smooth and soothing, often featuring both male and female singers. Lyrics often revolve around themes of love, relaxation, and escapism, further enhancing the genre's tropical and carefree vibe.
Notable Artists and Tracks
Several artists have been instrumental in shaping the tropical house genre and bringing it to a wider audience:
Kygo
As one of the pioneers of tropical house, Kygo's influence on the genre is undeniable. His remixes of tracks like Ed Sheeran's "I See Fire" and Marvin Gaye's "Sexual Healing" helped define the tropical house sound. Kygo's original tracks, such as "Firestone" and "Stole the Show," have also been major hits, further cementing his status as a leading figure in the genre.
Thomas Jack
Australian producer Thomas Jack is another key figure in the tropical house scene. He is credited with coining the term "tropical house" and has released several popular tracks and remixes that embody the genre's signature sound. His mixes, often featuring a blend of tropical house and other genres, have been widely celebrated for their creativity and musicality.
Other Influential Artists
Other notable artists in the tropical house genre include Matoma, Sam Feldt, and Lost Frequencies. Each of these artists has contributed to the genre's development through their unique interpretations and productions, helping to expand the tropical house sound and reach new audiences.
Cultural Impact
Tropical house has had a significant cultural impact, particularly in the realm of popular music. Its relaxed and accessible sound has made it a popular choice for mainstream radio and streaming playlists, and it has been featured in numerous commercials, films, and television shows. The genre's association with tropical and beach settings has also made it a popular choice for summer festivals and events.
Criticism and Challenges
Despite its popularity, tropical house has faced criticism from some quarters. Critics argue that the genre can be formulaic, with many tracks following similar structures and relying on the same musical tropes. Additionally, some purists within the electronic music community view tropical house as a commercialized and diluted form of house music.
The genre has also faced challenges in maintaining its relevance as musical trends continue to evolve. As new subgenres and styles emerge within the electronic music landscape, tropical house artists must continually innovate and adapt to stay relevant.
Future Directions
The future of tropical house remains uncertain, but there are several potential directions the genre could take. As artists continue to experiment with new sounds and production techniques, tropical house may evolve to incorporate elements from other genres, such as trap, future bass, or lo-fi. Additionally, the genre's emphasis on melody and harmony could lead to collaborations with artists from other musical backgrounds, further expanding its reach and appeal.