turntablist

The Art of the Scratch: A Groovy History of Turntablism

From “Breakin’ Records” to “Beat Juggling”:

Turntablism, the art of manipulating sound on turntables, has a history deeply intertwined with hip hop culture. While its roots lie in the early days of hip hop in the 1970s, its evolution has been a journey of sonic exploration, technical mastery, and sheer creativity.

The Birth of the DJ:

It all started with DJs like Kool Herc and Grandmaster Flash, who discovered the power of manipulating records to create loops and extend the beats of funk and soul tracks. This “breakbeat” technique became the foundation of early hip hop music.

From Beats to Battles:

In the 1980s, turntablism evolved from a musical tool to a competitive art form. Grand Mixer D.S.T. and The Furious Five introduced the idea of “beat juggling,” showcasing complex techniques like scratching, beatmatching, and blending records. Turntablism competitions like the DMC World DJ Championships became popular platforms for showcasing talent and innovation.

Beyond the Beats:

While hip hop remains the core of turntablism, the art form has crossed genres and influenced many other styles. DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince brought turntablism into the pop mainstream, while DJ Shadow and Cut Chemist pushed the boundaries of sonic experimentation.

Funny Facts:

• DJ Kool Herc’s first “turntable” was actually a broken record player! He ingeniously used the broken needle to create the desired scratching effect.
• Scratching a record is not always kind to its health. Some DJs have admitted to wearing out entire copies of classic records just to perfect their signature scratches.
• A popular myth surrounding turntablism is that DJs use two copies of the same record. This is generally not true! While some DJs might have a backup copy, most rely on their skills to seamlessly switch between different records.

The Legacy of Turntablism:

Turntablism continues to inspire a new generation of DJs and producers. From the digital age of DJ software to the resurgence of vinyl, the art of manipulating sound on turntables remains a vibrant and evolving force in music.

It’s not just about the beats, it’s about the art, the skill, and the sheer joy of manipulating sound. So next time you hear a DJ dropping a complex scratch, remember the history of turntablism, the countless hours of practice, and the innovative minds that have made this art form what it is today.