carnatic
what it is
Carnatic music (Sanskrit: Karnāṭaka saṃgīta) is a system of music commonly associated with the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, with its area roughly confined to four modern states of India: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. It is one of two main sub-genres of Indian classical music that evolved from ancient Hindu traditions; the other sub-genre being Hindustani music, which emerged as a distinct form due to Persian and Islamic influences in North India. In contrast to Hindustani music, the main emphasis in Carnatic music is on vocal music; most compositions are written to be sung, and even when played on instruments, they are meant to be performed in gāyaki (singing) style.
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art pop, hyperpop, and the underground
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deep experimental
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questions
What is carnatic?
Carnatic music (Sanskrit: Karnāṭaka saṃgīta) is a system of music commonly associated with the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, with its area roughly confined to four modern states of India: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. It is one of two main sub-genres of Indian classical music that evolved from ancient Hindu traditions; the other sub-genre being Hindustani music, which emerged as a distinct form due to Persian and Islamic influences in North India. In contrast to Hindustani music, the main emphasis in Carnatic music is on vocal music; most compositions are written to be sung, and even when played on instruments, they are meant to be performed in gāyaki (singing) style.
What are good carnatic albums to start with?
Try Vidwan: Music of South India -- Songs of the Carnatic Tradition by Ramnad Krishnan, 3 by Saagara, Vathapi Ganapathim by M. S. Subbulakshmi, and South Meets North: Violin & Sarod Jugalbandi by Lalgudi Jayaraman & Ustad Amjad Ali Khan.
Who are some women making carnatic?
musicisforgirls.com/genres/carnatic/girls lists women, non-binary artists, and bands with women making carnatic, from mainstream to underground.
genre notes from last.fm listeners · artists and albums from last.fm, updated 2026-10-20