Rising Genres in 2025: Where Are Listeners Going?

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Genres In 2025, musical tastes are evolving faster than ever, especially among younger listeners. Social media platforms, digital streaming, and AI generated content have all contributed to reshaping the landscape of music genres . But which styles are actually growing, and why are they connecting with new generations?

Let’s start with Drill music. Originating from Chicago and later adapted in the UK and New York, Drill remains a strong force. However, it’s not just about aggressive beats and gritty lyrics anymore. The genre has evolved into more melodic forms, blending emotional themes with traditional Drill rhythms. Artists are now using Drill to tell more introspective stories, gaining popularity even outside the urban music scene.

Then there’s Hyperpop, a chaotic yet emotionally raw genre that gained momentum on platforms like TikTok. Artists like 100 gecs and Glaive brought glitchy, exaggerated vocals and high energy beats into the spotlight. In 2025, Hyperpop continues to expand, often merging with other genres like emo rap and digital punk. Its appeal lies in its rawness, its refusal to fit into mainstream molds, and its DIY aesthetic. For many Gen Z and Gen Alpha fans, Hyperpop feels like their musical voice, anxious, expressive, and hyper connected.

Phonk, on the other hand, is a fascinating comeback story. Rooted in 90s Memphis rap and Southern hip hop, it blends retro samples with chopped vocals and distorted 808s. What is surprising is its massive popularity on platforms like YouTube and Spotify playlists related to driving, gym workouts, or even racing games. The rise of “Drift Phonk” (a subgenre often associated with fast cars and neon aesthetics) has given Phonk a unique place in youth culture. It is raw, energetic, and heavily visual.

Lofi, despite being around for a while, remains incredibly strong. While the classic “Lofi chill beats to study and relax to” trend has plateaued, the genre has diversified. Now you will find Lofi jazz, Lofi hip hop, Lofi ambient, all serving different emotional needs. Lofi’s calming effect makes it perfect for background music , but also for emotional introspection. Younger audiences turn to it when they need to disconnect and breathe.

A notable newcomer is Cinematic Trap, a fusion of orchestral elements with modern trap beats. It is gaining traction in trailer music, YouTube background scores, and even gaming content. Producers blend epic strings, choirs, or piano with booming kicks and hi hats, crafting powerful and emotional tracks. This genre appeals to creators and listeners who want intensity and drama in their playlists.

Overall, the younger generations are seeking emotion, vibe, and identity in the music they consume. They are less interested in traditional genre boundaries and more into hybrid sounds. They love experimentation, aesthetic coherence (visuals matter), and authenticity. Whether it is the cinematic storytelling of Trap, the rawness of Hyperpop, or the nostalgia of Phonk, one thing is clear: this is a generation that listens with both their ears and their hearts.

If you are a producer or composer, tapping into these emerging trends could open doors, not by imitating, but by understanding what emotions and aesthetics drive them.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME