Funk automotivo

Funk automotivo
Stylistic origins	Funk carioca EDM
Cultural origins	Late 2010s, São Paulo, Brazil.
Other topics
funk carioca

Funk automotivo is a musical subgenre that originated from funk mandelão, which itself descended from funk carioca, a genre that emerged in the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro in the 1980s. It is heavily related to funk montagem (funk MTG) and funk bruxaria.

This subgenre emerged in the late 2010s in São Paulo and gained popularity with the rise of "paredões de som" — cars equipped with powerful sound systems that became the centerpiece of parties and gatherings. From 2020 onwards, the subgenre gained worldwide popularity, especially in social media edits, notably on platforms like TikTok. Funk automotivo is often confused with phonk and ends up being called "Brazilian phonk", although both genres are different.

Characteristics

Funk automotivo is characterized by heavy and repetitive electronic rhythms, four on the floor beats, ideal for playback on high-power car audio systems, heavily sampled, reverberated and repetitive vocals. These tracks are usually accompanied by short, remixed samples, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The lyrics, when present, often address themes related to the lifestyle of young people from the outskirts, such as ostentation, parties, sex, and car culture.

Funk automotivo is a direct evolution of funk mandelão (descendant of funk carioca), but it incorporates influences from other genres such as EDM (Electronic Dance Music). Its relevance has grown not only in Brazil but also internationally. Furthermore, the genre has become a means of expression for young people from the outskirts and parties.

Funk automotivo is more than just a musical style; it is a cultural manifestation symbolizing the resilience, creativity, and identity of Brazilian peripheral communities. Its evolution and popularity show how the genre continues to adapt and influence popular culture both inside and outside Brazil.

See also

• Funk ostentação