Future bass

Definition

Future bass is a genre of electronic music characterized by its vibrant synths, heavy basslines, and melodic hooks. It often blends elements from various styles, including trap, dubstep, and pop, resulting in an emotionally rich soundscape. The genre focuses on creating an immersive listening experience that integrates dynamic bass elements with catchy melodies, making it a favorite in contemporary electronic dance music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Future bass emerged in the early 2010s, gaining popularity through platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube as artists began to experiment with new sounds and styles.
2. The genre often features a prominent use of vocal chops, which adds texture and emotion to the tracks while keeping them catchy and engaging.
3. Producers typically use sidechain compression to create a 'pumping' effect, allowing the kick drum to punch through the mix while maintaining the lushness of the synths.
4. Notable artists like Flume, Marshmello, and San Holo have significantly shaped the future bass landscape, bringing mainstream attention to the genre.
5. Future bass tracks usually follow a formula that includes build-ups leading to explosive drops, creating a contrast between tension and release that keeps listeners engaged.

Review Questions

• How does future bass integrate bass and melody to create its unique sound?
  • Future bass integrates bass and melody by using heavy basslines that are often syncopated with melodic synth patterns. The genre relies on lush synths to provide harmonic richness, which complements the deep sub-bass. This combination allows for dynamic shifts in energy throughout a track, creating an emotional journey that captivates listeners.
• In what ways has future bass influenced the evolution of electronic dance music genres?
  • Future bass has influenced the evolution of electronic dance music by introducing elements from various styles such as trap and pop into its framework. This blending of genres has encouraged producers to experiment with new sounds and techniques, resulting in innovative tracks that push the boundaries of EDM. Additionally, the genre's emphasis on melody and emotion has led to a rise in collaborations with mainstream pop artists, further bridging the gap between electronic music and popular culture.
• Evaluate the impact of key producers on the development of future bass and its role in contemporary electronic music.
  • Key producers like Flume and Marshmello have played a significant role in shaping future bass by pushing creative boundaries and popularizing the genre through their distinctive styles. Their innovative use of vocal chops, atmospheric synths, and dynamic drop structures has not only influenced aspiring producers but also altered audience expectations within electronic music. As they continue to collaborate with mainstream artists and explore new musical territories, their contributions highlight future bass's role as a driving force in contemporary electronic music culture.

Related terms

Synthwave: A genre of electronic music inspired by 1980s aesthetics and sounds, often featuring nostalgic synth melodies and retro production techniques.

Chillstep: A subgenre of dubstep that emphasizes relaxed tempos and melodic elements, creating a soothing atmosphere while maintaining a strong bass presence.

Vocal chops: A production technique where snippets of vocal recordings are manipulated and rearranged to create rhythmic and melodic elements in a track.