Beatport Expands Genre Offerings with New Ambient/Experimental and Downtempo Categories

03 April 2025 - Press release

 

Beatport, the global leader in music for DJs, producers, and their fans, continues to refine its genre classification by introducing Ambient/Experimental as a new standalone genre and reclassifying Downtempo as its own category, separate from Organic House. These additions reflect the growing influence of immersive, atmospheric soundscapes and slow-groove rhythms within electronic music, providing artists with a more precise platform to showcase their work.

"Electronic music is constantly evolving, and Ambient/Experimental and Downtempo have become essential parts of the ecosystem," said Raphael Pujol, Vice President of Global Curation at The Beatport Group. “These genres offer artists a space for deep sonic exploration and provide listeners with immersive, boundary-pushing experiences. By introducing dedicated pages, we’re making it easier for fans to discover these sounds and for artists to connect with their audiences."

Ambient & Experimental highlights music that prioritizes mood and texture over traditional rhythms and melodies. Ambient music creates immersive soundscapes through slow-evolving, minimalistic compositions, while Experimental music pushes the boundaries of conventional structures with abstract textures and unconventional rhythms. Leading labels supporting this movement include Warp Records, Kompakt, Mille Plateaux, Kranky, Erased Tapes, NOTON, and Music from Memory, alongside pioneering artists like Aphex Twin, Max Richter, Tim Hecker, Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, Autechre, and Kali Malone.

Downtempo music emphasizes groove and introspection. Ranging from the organic textures of Balearic and Lo-Fi to the beat-driven sounds of Trip-Hop and Chillout, Downtempo offers a versatile listening experience that resonates on both dance floors and intimate spaces. Prominent labels such as Wonderwheel Recordings, Sol Selectas, Cosmic Awakenings, and Shika Shika have championed this sound, while influential artists like Chancha Via Circuito, El Búho, Kermesse, Rodrigo Gallardo, and Riyoon continue to push the genre forward.