House

Definition

House is a genre of electronic dance music characterized by a repetitive four-on-the-floor beat, synthesized melodies, and a tempo typically ranging from 120 to 130 BPM. Originating in Chicago in the early 1980s, house music emerged as a fusion of disco, funk, soul, and electronic influences, leading to a variety of subgenres that reflect diverse musical styles and cultural influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. House music was born out of the underground club scene in Chicago, where DJs began to experiment with mixing tracks to create seamless dance experiences.
2. The genre has given rise to numerous subgenres, including Acid House, Progressive House, and Electro House, each with its own unique characteristics.
3. Notable artists such as Frankie Knuckles and Larry Heard played significant roles in shaping house music and are often referred to as the 'Godfathers' of the genre.
4. House music has had a global influence, leading to the emergence of vibrant electronic dance music scenes around the world, particularly in Europe and North America.
5. The use of technology in house music production has evolved over the years, from the early use of drum machines and synthesizers to contemporary software-based production techniques.

Review Questions

• How did house music emerge from earlier genres, and what influences contributed to its development?
  • House music emerged in the early 1980s from a blend of various genres like disco, funk, and soul. DJs in Chicago began to remix tracks using drum machines and synthesizers to create a continuous dance experience. This fusion allowed house to carve out its identity while paying homage to its predecessors. The repetitive beats and synthesized sounds became defining characteristics that separated house from other forms of dance music.
• Analyze the impact of house music on the global electronic dance music scene and its influence on various subgenres.
  • House music has significantly influenced the global electronic dance music scene by setting the foundation for many subgenres such as Deep House, Tech House, and Progressive House. Each of these styles borrows elements from traditional house but adds new layers, creating distinct sounds that appeal to diverse audiences. As house spread globally, it fostered unique regional scenes that incorporated local musical elements while remaining rooted in house's rhythmic structure.
• Evaluate how technological advancements have transformed the production and distribution of house music since its inception.
  • Technological advancements have dramatically transformed house music production from its early days. Initially reliant on drum machines and synthesizers, producers now utilize sophisticated software that allows for intricate layering and manipulation of sounds. The rise of digital platforms has also changed distribution methods; tracks can be shared globally almost instantaneously via streaming services and social media. This evolution not only democratizes access to producing but also shapes how new styles within house continue to emerge.

Related terms

Techno: A genre of electronic music that originated in Detroit in the mid-1980s, known for its emphasis on rhythmic, mechanical beats and futuristic soundscapes.

Deep House: A subgenre of house music that incorporates complex melodies, soulful vocals, and a more laid-back tempo, often blending elements of jazz and funk.

Disco: A genre of dance music popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s, characterized by its strong beat, syncopated basslines, and orchestral arrangements, which greatly influenced the development of house music.