House

Definition

House is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in the Chicago club scene in the early 1980s. Characterized by its repetitive 4/4 beat and synthesized melodies, house music has evolved to encompass various subgenres, making it a cornerstone of popular music, especially in dance clubs and festivals around the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. House music is typically built around a steady kick drum on every beat, creating a driving rhythm that encourages dancing.
2. The genre was popularized by influential artists and DJs like Frankie Knuckles, Larry Heard, and Marshall Jefferson, who played significant roles in its early development.
3. House has given rise to numerous subgenres, including deep house, progressive house, and acid house, each with its own distinct sound and style.
4. The use of samples from disco tracks, soul music, and funk has been a hallmark of house music, connecting it to its musical roots while also innovating new sounds.
5. House music became globally popular in the 1990s with the rise of rave culture and festivals, significantly impacting popular music across many genres.

Review Questions

• How did the cultural context of the early 1980s Chicago scene contribute to the emergence of house music?
  • The early 1980s Chicago scene was marked by a vibrant club culture that sought new forms of expression through music. The decline of disco in mainstream popularity left a gap that DJs and producers filled by experimenting with electronic instruments and dance beats. This environment fostered creativity, leading to the birth of house music as artists blended elements from disco, funk, and soul into a new sound designed for the dance floor.
• Discuss how house music has influenced other genres and led to the creation of new subgenres within electronic dance music.
  • House music has had a profound impact on various genres beyond its own, influencing pop, hip-hop, and even rock with its distinctive rhythms and production techniques. As it evolved, new subgenres emerged such as deep house and progressive house, each adding layers of complexity or variation. This adaptability has allowed house music to remain relevant, with artists continually pushing boundaries and incorporating elements from different styles, demonstrating its lasting influence on the broader musical landscape.
• Evaluate the role of technology in shaping the sound and accessibility of house music since its inception.
  • Technology has been a key factor in both the sound and accessibility of house music. The introduction of synthesizers and drum machines allowed producers to create rich, complex sounds that defined the genre. Moreover, advancements in digital distribution and streaming platforms have made house music accessible to global audiences. This accessibility has led to a diverse array of artists contributing to the genre while maintaining its foundational characteristics. The evolution of technology continues to inspire new innovations within house music, ensuring its relevance in contemporary popular culture.

Related terms

Techno: A genre of electronic music that emerged in Detroit during the same period as house music, known for its more mechanical sound and often faster tempo.

Disco: A genre of dance music that developed in the 1970s, heavily influencing the creation of house music with its rhythmic grooves and emphasis on danceability.

Synthesizer: An electronic musical instrument that generates audio signals, playing a crucial role in creating the melodies and sounds found in house music.