beats music

From Scratch to Sample: A Groovy History of Beats Music

Beats music, a genre built on rhythm and raw energy, has a history as rich and diverse as its sound. Its roots can be traced back to the rhythmic pulse of African drumming, the funky grooves of soul and funk, and the rebellious spirit of hip-hop.

The Early Days:

The origins of beats music can be found in the 1970s, as DJs in New York City started blending funk and disco tracks to create extended instrumental breaks. This rhythmic experimentation, known as “breakbeat” DJing, laid the foundation for the birth of hip-hop.

The Birth of Hip-Hop:

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, hip-hop exploded onto the scene. DJs like Grandmaster Flash and Kool Herc pioneered the art of turntablism, creating intricate rhythms and soundscapes through innovative techniques like scratching and beatmatching.

The Rise of Sampling:

The introduction of samplers in the 1980s revolutionized beats music. Musicians could now take snippets of existing recordings – from funk breaks to soul melodies – and manipulate them to create entirely new sonic landscapes. This allowed for endless creativity and experimentation, paving the way for the rise of iconic artists like The Bomb Squad, who famously used samples to create the signature sound of Public Enemy.

The Evolution of Electronic Beats:

The advent of electronic music in the late 20th century further expanded the possibilities of beats music. Artists like Kraftwerk and Yellow Magic Orchestra explored the use of synthesizers and drum machines to create groundbreaking sounds.

The Modern Era:

Today, beats music encompasses a wide range of subgenres, from the experimental sounds of electronic music to the high-energy rhythms of trap music. Artists like Flying Lotus, Hudson Mohawke, and Kendrick Lamar have pushed the boundaries of beats music, blending genres and incorporating influences from across the musical spectrum.

Fun Facts:

• Did you know that the iconic sample used in “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five comes from a disco song by MFSB, a group that ironically stood for “Mother Father Sister Brother”? Talk about a family affair!
• The iconic “Amen Break” sample, which has been used in thousands of songs, comes from a 1969 instrumental by The Winstons. That’s right, a psychedelic soul track from the late 60s continues to rock the foundations of modern beats music.
• When Public Enemy released their album “It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back”, the band wanted to incorporate the sound of an actual riot. They ended up using audio from a riot they themselves staged, showcasing their commitment to authenticity.

The future of beats music is bright:

As technology continues to evolve and artists continue to experiment, beats music will continue to shape and define the soundscape of the future. From the rhythmic pulse of the past to the innovative sounds of the present, beats music remains a powerful and inspiring force in the world of music.