Which of the following was NOT a characteristic of 19th-century popular music?

In the context of 19th-century popular music, the characteristic that stands out as not typical is complex harmonies. During this time, popular music often emphasized accessibility and appeal to a broad audience. Simple melodies were a hallmark, making songs easy to sing along with and remember. Catchy refrains played a crucial role in engaging listeners and ensuring that songs were memorable. Emotionally expressive lyrics were also prominent, as they connected with the sentiments of the audience and often conveyed relatable themes and feelings.

In contrast, complex harmonies typically belong to more sophisticated musical styles and genres, such as classical or jazz, which emphasize intricate chord progressions and counterpoints. Popular music of the 19th century was more focused on straightforward musical structures that catered to mass enjoyment rather than complexity, encapsulating easily digestible tunes and relatable emotional content.