Pagode, on the other hand, emerged in the 1970s and 1980s in Brazil, particularly in the southeastern states of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. This genre is marked by its distinctive percussion, often featuring instruments like the surdo, caixa, and tambourine. Pagode's rhythm is typically more relaxed than Samba, with a focus on harmonized vocals and lyrics that often explore themes of love, social issues, and everyday life.