Mixtape

Mixtape music originated in the late 20th century, notably taking shape in the 1980s as a cheeky way for artists to compile their favourite tracks and demonstrate their eclectic taste, all whilst trying to avoid the labour of actually recording an album. Essentially, it sounds like a delightful sonic buffet, where you can find a bit of everything, from heart-wrenching ballads to upbeat bangers, all wrapped up in a charmingly haphazard manner. Curiously, mixtapes not only served as a vehicle for musical exploration, they became the ultimate way to express undying affection or friendship, because nothing says 'I fancy you' quite like a homemade tape with a questionable tracklist.