Musical genres are categories that classify music based on shared characteristics, such as style, form, and cultural context. Common genres include rock, pop, jazz, classical, and hip-hop. Each genre has its own unique elements, such as instrumentation, rhythm, and lyrical themes, which help listeners identify and appreciate different types of music. Genres can also evolve over time, leading to the creation of subgenres. For example, rock has subgenres like punk rock and alternative rock. Additionally, genres often influence one another, resulting in hybrid styles, such as country pop or jazz fusion, showcasing the diversity and richness of the musical landscape.