Punjabi Bhangra

• What type of music is Bhangra classified as?

  Fusion music
• What elements are combined in Bhangra music?

  Western popular music, club dance music, Hindi film music, and folk music from the Punjabi region
• In which decade did modern Bhangra develop in the UK?

  1970s and 1980s
• What rhythms are fused with Western popular genres in modern Bhangra?

  Chaal rhythms
• What are the two sounds produced by the DHOL drum?

  High and low
• What is the CHAAL rhythm's time signature?

  4/4 metre
• How does the CHAAL rhythm create a 'swung' feel?

  It has a triplet-feel
• What vocal shouts are often added to the CHAAL rhythm?

  'Hoi'
• What role do the DHOLAK and/or TABLA play in Bhangra music?

  They add decorative, more complex rhythms
• What does the TUMBI often play in Bhangra music?


  Repeated riffs or ostinatos
• What is the texture of Bhangra music?

  Homophonic, with melody and accompaniment
• What is the typical tempo range for Bhangra music?

  140-195 bpm
• What does Bhangra originally refer to?

  A type of Punjabi dancing during harvest time
• How has Bhangra music evolved in terms of its cultural context?

  It became popular at celebrations like weddings and is now part of Bollywood cinema
• What is the dynamic level of Bhangra music?

  Consistently loud
• What type of dance is accompanied by the DHOL in Bhangra?

  A male synchronized dance with energetic steps and acrobatic stunts
• What vocal characteristics are common in Bhangra singing?

  High-pitch male vocalists in the tenor range
• What is a common feature of the melodies in Bhangra music?

  They use a small range of notes
• How do backing singers contribute to Bhangra music?

  They often shout 'Hoi' at certain points in the song
• What is a common melodic technique used by lead vocalists in Bhangra?

  Bending notes and using microtonal intervals
• What is the typical harmony structure in Bhangra music?

  Simple, based on one or two repeated chords
• How does the form and structure of Bhangra music compare to Western popular music?

  It includes popular song form with verses and a repeated chorus
• What impact has modern technology had on traditional Bhangra music?

  It has led to the use of remixes, sampling, and DJ sound effects
• What are some electronic instruments commonly used in modern Bhangra?

  Electric guitars, electric bass, synthesizers, and keyboards
• Who are some notable artists associated with Punjabi Bhangra?

  Panjabi MC and Alaap
• What traditional instruments are often used in Bhangra music?

  DHOLAK, TABLA, TUMBI, SARANGI, ALGHOZA
• What is the role of male singers in Bhangra music?

  They provide the lead vocals
• What are the key characteristics of Bhangra music?

  • Fusion of various music styles
  • Use of traditional and Western instruments
  • Fast-paced dance music in 4/4 metre
  • Consistent loud dynamics with strong accents
  • Simple harmony and repetitive structures
• What are the main rhythmic features of Bhangra music?

  • Basic rhythms played by the DHOL
  • Use of polyrhythms, cross-rhythms, and syncopation
  • CHAAL rhythm with a triplet feel
  • Vocal shouts on specific beats
  • Decorative rhythms from DHOLAK and TABLA
• How has Bhangra music evolved over time?

  • Originated as a harvest dance
  • Became popular at weddings and celebrations
  • Integrated into Bollywood cinema
  • Modern Bhangra incorporates technology and club elements
• What are the roles of different instruments in Bhangra music?

  • DHOL: Provides basic rhythm
  • TUMBI: Plays repeated riffs
  • DHOLAK and TABLA: Add complexity
  • Electric instruments: Enhance modern sound
  • Male singers: Lead vocals with energetic delivery