On 30 November 1966, Barbados became an independent state and Commonwealth realm with Elizabeth II as its queen. In October 2021, Sandra Mason was elected to become the first president of Barbados. Barbados is now in transition to a republic. The population of 287,010 is predominantly of African descent. While it is an Atlantic island, Barbados is closely associated with the Caribbean and is ranked as one of its leading tourist destinations.

The music of Barbados draws on the island's cultural heritage, and the music history of Barbados reflects the island's diverse cultures.