SoundCloud, the world’s largest open audio platform, has released its inaugural “Music Intelligence Report”—an annual roundup offering an insightful look into the emerging sounds, genres, and artists gaining momentum across its global user base.
This newly launched report is framed as a discovery-first alternative to traditional industry charts, designed to highlight the underground scenes and fresh movements before they become mainstream. By analyzing listening behavior and artist engagement across the platform, SoundCloud continues to position itself as the go-to destination for music discovery and trend forecasting.
Music Discovery Is Booming on SoundCloud
One of the report’s most eye-opening insights is the dominance of new music. According to SoundCloud data, 46.5% of all plays on the platform in the past year were for tracks released within the last 18 months. That’s nearly double the industry-wide average of 26.7%, as reported by Luminate.
This powerful stat reaffirms SoundCloud’s reputation as a launchpad for emerging artists and evolving genres. While mainstream charts often focus on established hits, SoundCloud continues to amplify the voices of underground artists and offer a space where niche sounds can flourish and grow organically.
Electronic Music Surges to the Top
The Music Intelligence Report reveals that electronic music is now the fastest-growing genre in the United States, rapidly climbing in popularity and overtaking many long-standing genres. In fact, it now ranks second only to hip-hop in the U.S.—and claims the top spot in the United Kingdom, showing that electronic’s global influence is stronger than ever.
Subgenres on the Rise: Minimal, Tech House, and Trance
Beyond broad genre categories, the report digs deeper into the subgenres making waves on the platform. Notably, minimal and tech house are gaining traction, capturing the attention of listeners seeking fresh, rhythmic, and immersive sonic experiences.
At the same time, trance music is enjoying a compelling revival—a trend largely driven by influential artists like Ben Nicky and Symmetrik, who are helping to breathe new life into the genre. These artists exemplify the kind of talent that finds a home and a loyal audience on SoundCloud long before hitting mainstream recognition.
A Cultural Barometer for the Sound of Tomorrow
With its commitment to surfacing cutting-edge music, SoundCloud is more than just a streaming service—it’s a cultural barometer. The Music Intelligence Report not only tracks listening habits but also offers valuable insight into how music is evolving on a global scale.
By identifying genre shifts and lifting up breakthrough artists, SoundCloud continues to shape the next wave of global music trends, staying true to its roots as a platform built for creators and listeners with a passion for discovery.