swinghouse

Swingin’ into the House: A Groovy History of Swinghouse

Swinghouse, a fusion of smooth jazz and soulful house music, emerged in the early 90s, blending the laid-back vibes of the former with the hypnotic beats of the latter. Think smooth saxophone melodies weaving their way through pulsating basslines and uplifting melodies, a sonic marriage that proved irresistible to dance floors worldwide.

The Roots Run Deep:

Swinghouse emerged as a natural progression of the growing fusion scene in the late 80s. DJs like Larry Heard (better known as Mr. Fingers) experimented with incorporating jazz elements into their house tracks, laying the groundwork for the genre’s signature sound.

A Global Phenomenon:

The genre quickly took off, attracting artists across the globe. From the UK, Nightmares on Wax and The Brand New Heavies became household names, while The Groove Collective in the US brought their unique blend of jazz, funk, and house to the masses.

Funny Facts:

• Saxophonist extraordinaire Kenny G was initially hesitant to collaborate with house producers, fearing it would compromise his “serious” jazz image. He eventually came around, releasing a string of chart-topping swinghouse tracks that proved he could groove with the best of them.

• One of the most popular swinghouse tracks, “The Horn Song” by The Brand New Heavies, was almost entirely composed by accident. The band’s engineer, in a moment of creative genius, accidentally left a microphone open during a rehearsal, capturing the band jamming with a horn section. This spontaneous improvisation turned into a legendary track.

• The legendary DJ and producer, Carl Cox, famously joked that he once mistook a swinghouse track for elevator music. His dry wit and unexpected humor often contrasted with his hard-hitting techno sets, making him a beloved figure in the music scene.

Swinghouse Legacy:

Despite its peak popularity in the 90s, the influence of swinghouse remains strong. Many contemporary artists, from Jamiroquai to Disclosure, draw inspiration from its smooth, groove-driven sound.

Swinghouse is a testament to the power of musical fusion. It combined the best of two worlds, creating a unique and infectious sound that still inspires and moves dancefloors today.