Sufi music is a genre characterized by devotional and introspective qualities, often featuring soaring vocals, intricate instrumentation, and complex rhythms. Emerging from the mystical traditions of Sufi Islam, it originated in the Middle East and South Asia, particularly in modern-day Pakistan, India, and Turkey. Popularized during the 20th century, Sufi music flourished in the 1980s and 1990s, with notable artists blending traditional qawwali and folk elements with contemporary styles. Sufi music is marked by its emotive, often poetic lyrics, and distinctive vocal techniques, such as the use of melismatic ornamentation and powerful, heart-wrenching crescendos. Its cultural significance lies in its ability to transcend borders and unite people across faiths and cultures. While sharing similarities with qawwali and classical Indian music, Sufi music is distinct in its focus on spiritual longing and its use of folk instruments like the tabla, harmonium, and tanpura.
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