A 4/4 rhythm-based dance music originating from the countryside of the Dominican Republic. The music was developed from early romantic guitar music. Today the music is made mostly through electronic samples and drum machines.

Bachata is a form of music and dance that originated in the countryside and rural marginal neighborhoods of Dominican Republic. Its subjects are often romantic; especially prevalent are tales of heartbreak and sadness. In fact, the original term used to name the genre was "amargue" ("bitterness," or "bitter music"), until the rather ambiguous (and mood-neutral) term bachata became popular.