Vocal trance is a subgenre of electronic dance music (EDM) that places a strong emphasis on melodic and emotive vocals, combined with the elements of traditional trance music. Vocal trance is characterized by its uplifting and anthemic melodies, driving beats, and the use of vocalists or vocal samples to convey emotional themes. Here are some key characteristics and features of vocal trance music:
1. **Melodic and Emotional:** Vocal trance is known for its melodic and emotional qualities. The melodies are often uplifting and euphoric, creating a sense of positivity and transcendence.
2. **Vocalists:** Vocal trance tracks feature vocalists who sing lyrics that convey various emotions and themes, such as love, longing, empowerment, and hope. These vocals are an integral part of the music and often serve as the focal point.
3. **Lyrics:** The lyrics in vocal trance songs often explore themes related to personal experiences, relationships, and emotional journeys. The lyrics can be introspective and reflective or celebratory and uplifting.
4. **Driving Beats:** Like traditional trance music, vocal trance features a consistent and driving beat, typically with a four-on-the-floor rhythm. The beats are designed to keep the energy and momentum on the dance floor.
5. **Build-Ups and Drops:** Vocal trance tracks often follow a structured arrangement with build-ups that lead to climactic drops. These build-ups create anticipation and excitement before the music reaches its peak.
6. **Variety of Vocal Styles:** Vocal trance encompasses a range of vocal styles, from powerful and belting vocals to soft and ethereal singing. The choice of vocal style can contribute to the overall emotional impact of the track.
7. **Global Appeal:** Vocal trance has a global following and is popular at EDM festivals and events worldwide. It has a broad appeal among electronic music enthusiasts.
8. **Collaborations:** Producers and vocalists often collaborate in the creation of vocal trance tracks. This collaboration allows for the blending of vocal talent with the production skills of electronic music producers.
9. **Subgenres:** Within the vocal trance subgenre, there are various substyles and variations, including progressive vocal trance, uplifting vocal trance, and vocal trance with elements of other electronic genres.
10. **Timeless Classics:** Vocal trance has produced many timeless classics that continue to be loved by fans and are often played at trance events and festivals.
Prominent vocal trance artists and producers include Armin van Buuren, Above & Beyond, Dash Berlin, Aly & Fila, and many others. Vocal trance has a dedicated fan base that appreciates its ability to evoke strong emotions and create a sense of unity and celebration on the dance floor.