Music is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. It can express emotions, tell stories, inspire people, and create connections. But which countries are the most musical in the world? Which ones have the most diverse, influential, and popular music scenes? This is not an easy question to answer, as different genres, styles, and tastes may appeal to different audiences. However, based on some criteria such as music exports, awards, charts, festivals, and cultural impact, we can try to rank the top 10 countries with the best music in the world.
Top 10 Countries with Best Music in 2023
10. China
China’s music market is the fastest growing in the world, but it still has a lot of potential to tap into. The country has a rich musical heritage that spans from ancient folk songs to modern pop stars. Some of the most famous Chinese musicians include Jackie Chan, Jay Chou, Cai Xukun, and G.E.M. China also hosts some of the biggest music festivals in Asia, such as Strawberry Music Festival, Midi Music Festival, and Storm Electronic Music Festival.
9. Netherlands
The Netherlands is a small country with a big impact on the global music scene. The country is the leader in electronic dance music (EDM), with many top DJs such as Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix, and Hardwell hailing from there. The country also has a vibrant indie rock, hip hop, and jazz scene, with artists like Anouk, De Jeugd van Tegenwoordig, and Caro Emerald. The Netherlands also hosts some of the most popular music festivals in Europe, such as Amsterdam Dance Event, Lowlands, and Pinkpop.
8. Russia
Russia is a country with a long and diverse musical history that ranges from classical composers like Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff to modern pop stars like t.A.T.u. and Little Big. The country has a strong tradition of folk music, rock music, and opera, as well as a growing rap and EDM scene. Some of the most famous Russian musicians include Sergey Lazarev, Zemfira, Polina Gagarina, and Vitas. Russia also organizes some of the largest music festivals in Eastern Europe, such as Park Live, Alfa Future People, and Nashestvie.
7. Australia
Australia is a country that has produced some of the most iconic and successful musicians in the world. From rock legends like AC/DC, INXS, and Midnight Oil to pop sensations like Kylie Minogue, Sia, and Iggy Azalea, Australia has a diverse and influential music scene. The country also has a thriving indie rock, alternative, and hip-hop scene, with artists like Tame Impala, Flume, Courtney Barnett, and Hilltop Hoods. Australia also hosts some of the best music festivals in the world, such as Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival.
6. Canada
Canada is a country that has given the world some of the most talented and popular musicians of all time. From pop icons like Celine Dion, Justin Bieber, and Drake to rock legends like Neil Young, Rush, and Arcade Fire, Canada has a rich and diverse music scene. The country also has a strong indie, folk, and country scene, with artists like Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, and Shania Twain. Canada also hosts some of the most prestigious music awards and festivals in the world, such as the Juno Awards, the Polaris Music Prize, and the Montreal Jazz Festival.
5. France
France is a country that has a long and influential musical history that spans from classical composers like Debussy and Ravel to modern pop stars like Daft Punk and David Guetta. The country has a distinctive musical style that blends elements of chanson, jazz, hip hop, and electronic music. Some of the most famous French musicians include Edith Piaf, Serge Gainsbourg, Stromae, and Christine and the Queens. France also hosts some of the most popular music festivals in Europe, such as Rock en Seine, Hellfest, and Vieilles Charrues.
4. Japan
Japan is a country that has one of the largest and most diverse music markets in the world. The country is known for its pop culture phenomenon of J-pop, which includes idol groups, anime songs, and karaoke. Some of the most famous J-pop artists include AKB48, Utada Hikaru, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, and BTS. Japan also has a strong rock, metal, and electronic music scene, with artists like X Japan, Babymetal, Perfume, and YMO. Japan also hosts some of the biggest music festivals in Asia, such as Fuji Rock Festival, Summer Sonic Festival.
3. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is a country that has shaped the history of music like no other. The country is the birthplace of many genres and movements, such as rock, punk, metal, pop, and grime. Some of the most legendary and influential musicians of all time come from the UK, such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Clash, Oasis, Adele, and Ed Sheeran. The UK also has a vibrant and diverse music scene, with artists like Dua Lipa, Stormzy, Sam Smith, and Coldplay. The UK also hosts some of the most iconic music festivals in the world, such as Glastonbury, Reading and Leeds, and Download.
2. United States
The United States is a country that has dominated the global music industry for decades. The country is the home of many genres and styles, such as jazz, blues, rock and roll, hip hop, country, and R&B. Some of the most successful and influential musicians of all time come from the US, such as Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Bob Dylan, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift. The US also has a diverse and dynamic music scene, with artists like Billie Eilish, Post Malone, Ariana Grande, and Kendrick Lamar. The US also hosts some of the most famous music awards and festivals in the world, such as the Grammy Awards, the Billboard Music Awards, Coachella, and Lollapalooza.
1. Brazil
Brazil is a country that has the most musical diversity and creativity in the world. The country has a rich musical heritage that combines elements of indigenous, African, European, and American influences. Some of the most distinctive and popular genres of Brazilian music include samba, bossa nova, MPB, funk carioca etc.
Conclusion
Music is a powerful and beautiful form of art that can bring joy, inspiration, and connection to people all over the world. While every country has its own musical culture and identity, some countries stand out for their musical excellence and diversity. These are the top 10 countries with the best music in the world, based on some criteria such as music exports, awards, charts, festivals, and cultural impact. Of course, this ranking is subjective and may not reflect everyone’s preferences and opinions. But we hope that it can spark some curiosity and appreciation for the amazing music that these countries have to offer.
Most Asked Questions and Answers
Q: What is the most popular genre of music in the world?
A: According to a 2019 report by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), the most popular genre of music in the world is pop, followed by rock, oldies, hip hop/rap, dance/electronic, indie/alternative, K-pop, metal, R&B, and classical.
Q: Which country has the most Grammy Awards?
A: According to the official website of the Grammy Awards, the country with the most Grammy Awards is the United States, with 2,826 awards as of 2021. The second place goes to the United Kingdom, with 382 awards, followed by Canada, with 110 awards.
Q: Which country has the most musical instruments?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different sources may have different criteria and methods of counting musical instruments. However, according to one source, the country with the most musical instruments is India, with over 1,000 different types of instruments. Some of the most famous Indian instruments include the sitar, the tabla, the veena, and the bansuri.
Q: Which country has the most music festivals?
A: According to one source, the country with the most music festivals is Germany, with over 1,500 festivals per year. Some of the most famous German music festivals include Rock am Ring, and Wacken Open Air.
Q: Which country has the most music streaming services?
A: According to one source, the country with the most music streaming services is the United States, with over 40 different platforms available. Some of the most popular music streaming services in the US include Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and Pandora.
Q: Which country has the most music genres?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different sources may have different definitions and classifications of music genres. However, according to one source, the country with the most music genres is Brazil, with over 200 different types of music. Some of the most famous Brazilian music genres include samba, bossa nova, MPB, funk carioca, axé, forró, and pagode.
Q: Which country has the most musical influence?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different sources may have different criteria and methods of measuring musical influence. However, according to one source, the country with the most musical influence is the United Kingdom, based on factors such as global sales, awards, charts, streaming, social media, and cultural impact. Some of the most influential British musicians include The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and The Clash.