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nu jazz hip hop

Nu Jazz Hip Hop: A Groovy Fusion

Nu jazz hip hop, a genre born in the late 90s, is a vibrant blend of soulful jazz melodies, smooth hip hop beats, and the lyrical prowess of the rap scene. It’s like a musical cocktail party where James Brown throws down with Miles Davis, while Jay-Z sips on a flute of Motown. 🥂

The roots of this genre lie in the fertile ground of hip hop’s experimentation. Artists like **J Dilla** and **Madlib**, who were already pushing the boundaries of hip hop production, found themselves drawn to the complex harmonies and rhythms of jazz. This, combined with the growing popularity of **trip hop** and **neo-soul**, created the perfect storm for nu jazz hip hop to blossom.

One of the earliest pioneers of this sound was **The Roots**, whose 1999 album “Things Fall Apart” seamlessly fused live instrumentation with hip hop beats. This laid the foundation for a new wave of artists who embraced the genre’s unique aesthetic. **Erykah Badu** infused her sultry vocals with jazzy arrangements, while **D’Angelo** took the neo-soul vibe to a whole new level, creating a sophisticated blend of funk and jazz.

However, nu jazz hip hop wasn’t just about smooth sounds and sophisticated lyrics. It was also about pushing the boundaries of hip hop culture. **DJ Shadow**’s groundbreaking album “Endtroducing…” showcased the genre’s experimental side, utilizing intricate samples and innovative production techniques. **DJ Krush** brought a Japanese influence to the scene, combining jazz with traditional Japanese sounds.

The fun doesn’t end there! Here are some quirky facts about nu jazz hip hop musicians:

  • **J Dilla** was known to sample sounds from old cereal boxes! That’s right, the man who revolutionized hip hop production was a cereal box aficionado. 🥣
  • **Madlib** is a master of disguise! He has released music under various aliases, including Quasimoto, Yesterday’s New Quintet, and the equally confusing “Lord Quas.” 🤔
  • **Erykah Badu** once wore a dress made entirely of duct tape! Talk about a fashion statement! 🤯

Nu jazz hip hop is a genre that continues to evolve and inspire. From the soulful sounds of **Flying Lotus** to the innovative beats of **Kendrick Lamar**, the genre’s influence is undeniable. So, next time you’re looking for something groovy and fresh, give nu jazz hip hop a listen. You might just discover your new favorite sound. 😎

Here are our favorite tracks by nu jazz hip hop