Genre Tempo Signatures

Every genre has a characteristic tempo range that partly defines its identity. Hip-hop typically sits at 85-115 BPM, giving it a laid-back groove. House music locks in at 120-130 BPM. Techno pushes to 130-150 BPM.

Reggae sits comfortably at 60-90 BPM, creating its characteristic relaxed feel. Punk rock charges at 150-180 BPM. Trap uses 140-170 BPM but with half-time hi-hats that make it feel slower than it is. This half-time trick is why trap can feel both laid-back and intense simultaneously.