Underrepresented Music Genres

Which Music Genres are Most Underrepresented in Film, TV, and Advertising – and Why We Need More of Them

Discover the potential for underrepresented music in media and advertising

In the world of film, TV, and advertising, music is an essential storytelling tool that helps shape narratives, convey emotions, and solidify brand identities. Yet, despite the vast array of music genres available today, certain genres remain underrepresented across these media. For production music libraries and bespoke music providers, exploring these overlooked genres presents a unique opportunity to offer more diverse and distinctive soundtracks that can captivate audiences and make brands stand out.

Here we’ll take a quick look at which music genres are most underrepresented in film, TV, and advertising, and perhaps argue for their consideration, and why expanding their use can lead to more innovative and memorable content.

"Jazz" – A Forgotten Gem in Modern Media

While jazz has deep roots in film scoring (think of its classic use in noir films and early Hollywood soundtracks), it is surprisingly underutilised in contemporary film, TV, and advertising. Often overshadowed by more mainstream genres such as pop, rock, and orchestral scores, jazz is rarely the go-to choice for soundtracks outside of niche projects.

Why Jazz is Underrepresented:

Jazz is often associated with specific time periods or genres (e.g., film noir, period dramas), leading filmmakers and advertisers to see it as outdated or limited in scope. Its complex rhythms and improvisational nature may be viewed as less accessible or suitable for modern, fast-paced advertising campaigns.

Why Jazz Deserves More Use:

Emotional Depth: Jazz can add layers of emotion to a scene, ranging from smooth and sensual to frantic and dynamic. This versatility makes it ideal for both character-driven dramas and creative ads.

Unique Atmosphere: With its signature blend of swing, syncopation, and improvisation, jazz can set an atmosphere that feels sophisticated, urban, or nostalgic qualities often desired by high-end brands.

Modern Adaptations: There’s a growing trend of contemporary artists blending jazz with other genres, such as electronic and hip-hop, creating more accessible and modern forms of the genre.

"World Music" – Untapped Global Potential

Despite the increasing popularity of global cultures and influences, “world music” remains underrepresented in mainstream media. Whether it’s African drumming, Middle Eastern melodies, or Latin rhythms, these global sounds are rarely featured in Western advertising or TV production, beyond token use.

Why World Music is Underrepresented:

There may be a lack of familiarity with global music traditions among Western producers and advertisers. Concerns about cultural appropriation can make brands hesitant to use non-Western music genres without proper context.

Why World Music Should Be More Prominent:

Cultural Diversity: In a globalized world, where cross-cultural exchange is more prevalent than ever, world music offers an opportunity to engage with diverse audiences and reflect a brand’s inclusivity.

Fresh and Distinctive Sound: The unique instruments, scales, and rhythms found in world music can provide fresh, memorable soundtracks that stand out from the more commonly used genres.

Cross-Cultural Appeal: As global audiences become more interconnected, world music has the potential to resonate with a wider demographic, enhancing a brand’s reach.

"Folk and Traditional Music" – Stories in Sound

“Folk music” has long been a tool for storytelling, yet it is often overlooked in favor of more commercial genres. Whether it’s traditional British or American folk, Celtic, or other indigenous styles, this genre has a richness and authenticity that is often absent from today’s media.

Why Folk Music is Underrepresented:

Folk music may be seen as too niche, particularly in urban or cosmopolitan settings. Its organic, acoustic sound might not always align with the polished, modern aesthetic that many brands and filmmakers seek.

Why Folk Music Should Be Used More:

Authentic Storytelling: Folk music’s roots in storytelling make it perfect for conveying authenticity, sincerity, and intimacy in film and advertising.

Nostalgia and Simplicity: Folk music evokes simplicity and nostalgia, which can create an emotional bond with audiences, particularly in ads focused on heritage, tradition, or craftsmanship.

Modern Folk Revival: With the recent popularity of folk-inspired artists like Mumford & Sons and Fleet Foxes, folk music has a growing appeal, particularly among younger, indie-oriented audiences.

“Experimental and Avant-Garde Music” – Sound Innovation

“Experimental music” pushes boundaries and explores unconventional sounds, structures, and rhythms. While it’s frequently used in art films or niche indie projects, it is significantly underrepresented in mainstream advertising and television.

Why Experimental Music is Underrepresented:

Its unconventional nature can be polarizing, making it a risky choice for brands looking to appeal to a broad audience. Experimental music often lacks the familiar structures that are typically associated with catchy, memorable advertising jingles.

Why Experimental Music Should Be More Prominent:

Innovation and Creativity: For brands that want to be seen as cutting-edge or forward-thinking, experimental music can break the mould and signal innovation.

Captivating and Memorable: The unexpectedness of experimental music can capture attention more effectively than predictable or generic soundtracks, making it ideal for disruptive or bold advertising campaigns.

Artistic Appeal: In film, experimental scores can enhance the artistic depth of a project, providing a distinct and original soundtrack that resonates with critical audiences.

“Heavy Metal and Hard Rock” – Energy and Intensity

While “rock” and “pop” have long been staples of advertising and TV soundtracks, harder genres like “heavy metal” and “hard rock” are rarely used outside of very specific, niche applications (such as action movies or sports commercials).

Why Heavy Metal is Underrepresented:

Heavy metal and hard rock are often viewed as aggressive, niche genres with a limited target audience. Brands may fear alienating consumers by associating with genres that are seen as too loud or intense for general audiences.

Why Heavy Metal Deserves More Use:

Raw Energy: Metal and hard rock bring unmatched intensity and energy, which can be harnessed to create bold, dynamic commercials or high-stakes film scenes.

Underrated Versatility: Heavy metal is more versatile than it seems, it can range from aggressive to melodic, making it adaptable for various moods and themes.

Appealing to a Loyal Fan Base: Metal fans are known for their loyalty and passion, and brands that embrace this genre could tap into a highly engaged audience that often feels overlooked in mainstream media.

Other Underrepresented Music Genres

Punk

Baroque and Early Classical

Bluegrass

Reggaeton & Dancehall

Electronic Subgenres

The Case for Increased Diversity in Music Genres

Expanding the use of these underrepresented genres offers several advantages for brands, advertisers, and production: Fresh, Distinctive Soundtracks. In a media landscape saturated with pop and electronic music, using jazz, folk, world music, or metal can help your project stand out.

Emotional and Cultural Resonance: Audiences are increasingly looking for authenticity and diversity. Incorporating more niche genres can help brands connect with a wider range of audiences. Creative Innovation: For brands that want to be seen as trendsetters, adopting unconventional or experimental music.

Which genre would you like to hear used more often? Let 560 Music work with you to create the perfect bespoke music for your next ground breaking project.