CultureJuly 13, 2026
gqom
/ˈɡkɒm/
Definition
A subgenre of electronic dance music originating from Durban, South Africa, characterized by minimal, raw, and hypnotic bass-heavy beats.
Etymology
The word is derived from the isiZulu word 'gqom,' which is an onomatopoeia imitating the sound of a drum beating. It was coined in the Durban township music scene to describe the genre's percussive and rhythmic style.
In the news
The article mentions gqom as one of the specific African electronic rhythms featured on the Afrotronic stage at the Afro Nation festival. It highlights the genre's role in the festival's diverse musical lineup.
Afro Nation 2026: Where African Music, Cuban Heritage & Global Culture Collided
Read the full article ↗Complex