Electronic Dance Music, a genre of music produced primarily for nightclubs, raves, and festivals. It features synthesized sounds, electronic beats, and is designed for dancing.
Acronym formed in the 1980s-1990s from 'Electronic Dance Music'. The term emerged as electronic instruments became accessible and club culture expanded, needing a category for beat-driven electronic music.
EDM represents a unique linguistic phenomenon where an acronym became more popular than its full form - most fans simply say 'EDM' rather than 'electronic dance music'. The genre's emphasis on the 'drop' - a moment of musical climax - mirrors how the abbreviated name itself 'drops' unnecessary syllables for maximum impact.
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