Indian Pop & Bhangra Music

Question 1

What is Indian Pop music also known as?

Answer 1

Indian Pop music is also known as:

• Indi-pop
• I-pop, or
• Hindi-pop

Question 2

Describe what Indian Bhangra music is.

Answer 2

The term ‘bhangra’ originally referred to a type of Punjabi dancing, which people would take part in every around harvest time.

Question 3

Alongside the traditional Indian instruments used, what newer instruments were introduced?

Answer 3

Alongside the traditional instruments such as a Dhol (a double ended drum), you will often hear synthesisers, guitars, drum machines and samples (which are sometimes taken from Bollywood film soundtracks).

Question 4

What is the most common structure of Indian Bhangra music?

Answer 4

The structure of these songs are verse, chorus, instrumental (similar to Western pop music).

Question 5

How would you describe the texture of Indian Pop and Bhangra music?

Answer 5

The texture can be described as melody and accompaniment but with several layers of melody/ percussion.

Question 6

Describe the tempo of Indian Pop and Bhangra music.

Answer 6

The tempo of the music is often 4/4 (4 beats in a bar), fast, with a Chaal rhythm played on the dhol.