- It is believed to have been developed from the songs of camel drivers.
- It is noted for its quick turns of phrases.
- Poetry full of expressions of love and physical intimacy is the salient feature of Tappa.
- It was developed as a form of classical music by Mian Gulam Nabi Shori or Shori Mian, who was a court singer for the Nawab of Awadh, Asaf-Ud-Dowlah.
- Tappa employs Ragas like Khamaj, Jhinjhoti, Kafi, Tilang, Bhairavi, and Des.