Slovak music isn’t just about folklore and accordions. Here’s a breakdown of the genres you’ll actually hear, plus the vocab you need to sound like you know what you’re talking about.
Folk Music (Ľudová hudba)
The backbone of Slovak culture. Expect fiddles, fujaras (a giant flute), and lyrics about shepherds. Modern folk bands like SĽUK keep it alive.
Fujara
/ˈfujara/“Fujara (no direct translation)”
Chalga (Slovak Pop-Folk)
Balkan-inspired trash-pop. Heavy on synth, cheap lyrics, and questionable fashion. Divisive, but impossible to escape in clubs. Key artists: Dara Rolins, Desmod.
Chalga
/ˈxalɡa/“Pop-folk (derogatory)”
Rock/Metal
Slovak rock bands punch above their weight. Horkýže Slíže (punk-rock) and Čad (metal) are legends. Lyrics are often sarcastic or political.
Metalec
/ˈmɛtalɛts/“Metalhead”
Electronic & Hip-Hop
Slovak hip-hop (Rytmus, Momo) is growing. Electronic scene is niche but solid - check out LUMER for darkwave vibes.
Repár
/ˈrɛpaːr/“Rapper”
Useful Phrases
- “Čo to hrá?” – What’s playing?
- “Toto je môj jam.” – This is my jam.
- “Hrajte niečo slovenské!” – Play something Slovak!
For more Slovak vocab, check out our guide on talking about family in Slovak or how to flirt in Slovak.
