What is breakbeat?
Breakbeat is a broad term used to describe a collection of sub-genres in electronic music, primarily characterized by the use of a non-straightened 4/4 drum pattern (as opposed to the steady beat of house or trance). Its name comes from the fact that these rhythms were originally created by looping, cutting, and mixing the "breaks" from funk and soul tracks. The genre has its roots in the UK but has since spread worldwide, influencing numerous other styles of music.
History of breakbeat
The origins of breakbeat can be traced back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, when DJs began experimenting with using two turntables to extend the "breaks" in funk and soul records. These breaks were the sections of the songs where the melody would drop out, leaving only the rhythm section, which often featured a distinctive drum pattern. DJs would loop these sections, creating a continuous beat.
As technology advanced, DJs and producers began using samplers and drum machines to create their own breakbeats. This led to the development of a new style of music, which came to be known as breakbeat. The genre really began to take off in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with the rise of rave culture in the UK.
Legendary figures in breakbeat history
Several leading figures have played a significant role in the development of breakbeat. Among them are Kool Herc, a Jamaican-American DJ who is often credited with originating hip-hop music, and Grandmaster Flash, who was one of the first DJs to use breakbeats in his mixes. In the UK, artists like The Prodigy, Fatboy Slim, and The Chemical Brothers helped popularize the genre.
Other notable figures include DJ Shadow, who is known for his innovative use of sampling and breakbeats, and Aphex Twin, whose complex, intricate breakbeats have influenced countless other artists. These musicians, among others, have helped shape breakbeat into the diverse and influential genre it is today.
Characteristics of breakbeat
Breakbeat music is characterized by its distinctive rhythmic patterns. Unlike most other forms of dance music, which use a straightforward 4/4 beat (four beats to a measure, with a quarter note receiving one beat), breakbeat rhythms are typically syncopated, meaning they emphasize the off-beats. This gives the music a unique, choppy feel that sets it apart from other genres.
Another characteristic of breakbeat is its use of samples. Many breakbeat tracks feature samples from other songs, often from funk or soul records. These samples are typically looped and manipulated to create new rhythms and melodies. In addition to these musical elements, breakbeat tracks often feature heavy basslines and complex, layered arrangements.
Also, the tempo of breakbeat is between 130 and 135 BPM—slower than drum and bass but faster than house and some forms of techno. It falls within the uptempo range typical of dance music.
Impact of breakbeat
Breakbeat has had a significant impact on the world of music. Its distinctive rhythms have influenced countless other genres, from hip-hop to drum and bass, and its innovative use of sampling has paved the way for new forms of musical expression. The genre's emphasis on rhythm and groove has helped make it a popular choice for DJs and dance music producers.
Moreover, breakbeat has also had a cultural impact. Its association with rave culture in the UK has made it a symbol of youth rebellion and counterculture, and its influence can be seen in everything from fashion to visual art. Despite its origins in the underground, breakbeat has managed to permeate mainstream culture in a way few other genres have.
