The banjo, with African origins, became a defining instrument in American folk, bluegrass, and country music. Typically featuring a resonant drum-like body and either four, five, or six strings, it produces bright, percussive tones. Leading models include Deering Goodtime, Gibson Mastertone, Gold Tone CC-100R, and Stelling Staghorn. Banjos excel in bluegrass picking, folk melodies, and hybrid styles, making them a staple for rhythmic and melodic playing.