House

Definition

House is a genre of electronic dance music characterized by its repetitive 4/4 beat, synthesized melodies, and a tempo typically ranging from 120 to 130 beats per minute. Originating in the early 1980s, house music emerged from Chicago's underground club scene and has since evolved into various subgenres while remaining influential in shaping the broader landscape of electronic music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. House music was named after the Chicago nightclub The Warehouse, where DJ Frankie Knuckles played a significant role in popularizing the genre.
2. The genre incorporates elements from various musical styles, including soul, funk, disco, and electronic music, making it diverse and adaptable.
3. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, house music had spread globally, influencing pop music and leading to the development of other electronic genres.
4. Subgenres of house include deep house, acid house, and progressive house, each featuring unique characteristics while retaining the core elements of the genre.
5. House music is often associated with vibrant club culture and has been instrumental in fostering communities around dance and self-expression.

Review Questions

• How did the cultural context of Chicago in the 1980s influence the development of house music?
  • The cultural context of Chicago in the 1980s played a crucial role in shaping house music as it emerged from the city's underground club scene. The city was experiencing a rich diversity of musical influences, including disco and soul, which contributed to the unique sound of house. Additionally, clubs like The Warehouse provided a space for DJs to experiment with blending different styles, creating an environment ripe for innovation. This fusion of influences set the foundation for house as a distinct genre in electronic dance music.
• Discuss how house music has evolved over the years and its impact on other genres.
  • House music has undergone significant evolution since its inception in the 1980s. As it gained popularity, various subgenres emerged—such as deep house and tech house—each adding new elements while retaining the foundational characteristics. The infectious beats and melodies of house have also permeated pop music, influencing mainstream artists and leading to collaborations between DJs and famous singers. This cross-pollination has helped to keep house music relevant and has broadened its appeal across different audiences.
• Evaluate the role of technology in the creation and distribution of house music in contemporary settings.
  • Technology has profoundly impacted both the creation and distribution of house music today. Advancements in digital audio workstations (DAWs) allow producers to experiment with sounds and create intricate tracks from their home studios. Additionally, social media platforms and streaming services have transformed how music is distributed, enabling independent artists to reach global audiences without traditional record label support. This accessibility encourages collaboration within the global dance community and fosters new talent while keeping the spirit of house music alive through innovation.

Related terms

Disco:

A genre of dance music that emerged in the 1970s, featuring a steady beat and rhythm, which laid the foundation for house music.

Techno: A genre of electronic music that developed around the same time as house but is generally more focused on instrumental sounds and rhythm, often using synthesizers and drum machines.

DJ Culture: The practice of mixing and blending tracks by DJs, which is integral to house music and its emergence in clubs and dance events.