Electronic Music : House
House Music is probably the most popular genre of electronic music and personally one of my favorites. I grew up playing a lot of rock and blues guitar so I am not exactly sure when my love for house music crept in but I’m pretty sure it had something to do with Need for Speed Underground 2. I remember that game had a killer playlist, not too long after I was introduced to Deadmau5 thanks to this wonderful friend below. I have been building playlists ever since of all my favorite electronic tracks and House has all the vibes. Its that type of genre that allows you to remix every other genre imaginable with it, most would argue any electronic genre is like that but House has all the VIBES man!
DJ Alan Martin performing in Ireland
House music has been a driving force in the global dance music scene since its inception in the early 1980s. Originating in Chicago, it has since splintered into a variety of subgenres, each with its own distinct sound and cultural significance. In this blog, we'll delve into the evolution of house music, exploring its key subgenres and the notable tracks and artists that have defined them.
Classic House
Defining Features:
Classic house, also known as Chicago house, is characterized by its four-on-the-floor beat, soulful vocals, and the use of drum machines like the Roland TR-808 and TR-909. It often incorporates elements of disco, funk, and soul, creating a warm, danceable sound.
Notable Artists and Tracks:
Frankie Knuckles - Your Love: Often referred to as the "Godfather of House," Knuckles' productions laid the groundwork for the genre.
Marshall Jefferson - Move Your Body: Known as the "House Music Anthem," this track is a quintessential example of the classic house sound.
Deep House
Defining Features:
Deep house is known for its slower tempo (usually around 120 BPM), jazzy chords, and smooth, atmospheric sounds. It often features soulful vocals and a more laid-back, introspective vibe compared to other house subgenres. The deep basslines and intricate melodies give deep house its signature sound.
Notable Artists and Tracks:
Larry Heard (Mr. Fingers) - Can You Feel It: A pioneering track in the deep house genre, showcasing its melodic and emotional depth.
Kerri Chandler - Atmosphere: A track that epitomizes the warm, enveloping sound of deep house.
Acid House
Acid house emerged in the mid-1980s and is characterized by its squelching, resonant basslines produced by the Roland TB-303 synthesizer. The genre is known for its repetitive, hypnotic beats and psychedelic soundscapes, often associated with the rave culture of the late 1980s.
Notable Artists and Tracks:
Phuture - Acid Tracks: Widely regarded as the first acid house track, this 1987 release set the tone for the genre.
303 Nation - Seis: A track that highlights the genre's characteristic use of the TB-303 synth.
Progressive House
Progressive house is marked by its extended build-ups, euphoric melodies, and lush production. It typically features a slower tempo than classic house but emphasizes a more cinematic, emotionally charged sound. The genre often incorporates elements of trance and ambient music.
Notable Artists and Tracks:
Sasha & John Digweed - Xpander: A track that exemplifies the epic, evolving nature of progressive house.
Eric Prydz - Call on Me: A commercial hit that brought progressive house to mainstream audiences, known for its infectious melody.
Tech House
Tech house blends the rhythmic elements of techno with the grooves of house music. It’s known for its minimalistic approach, focusing on tight, driving beats and subtle basslines. The genre often features percussive, looped samples and a more stripped-back sound compared to other house subgenres.
Notable Artists and Tracks:
Carl Cox - I Want You (Forever): A track that fuses the energy of techno with the accessibility of house.
Dubfire - Roadkill: A dark, driving tech house track that exemplifies the genre’s blend of minimalism and intensity.
Vocal House
Vocal house is characterized by its use of prominent, soulful vocals set against a backdrop of house beats. The genre often draws from gospel, R&B, and soul music, creating a powerful, emotive sound that resonates on the dance floor. It’s a staple in club scenes around the world.
Notable Artists and Tracks:
CeCe Peniston - Finally: A classic vocal house anthem that showcases the genre’s uplifting spirit.
Robin S. - Show Me Love: A track that has become synonymous with vocal house, known for its infectious hook and powerful vocals.
Funky House
Funky House is a subgenre that emphasizes groovy basslines, and uplifting melodies, and often includes elements of funk and disco. It’s designed to be highly danceable, with an upbeat tempo and feel-good vibes. The genre often incorporates brass sections, guitar riffs, and funky basslines to create a lively, energetic atmosphere.
Notable Artists and Tracks:
David Morales - Needin’ U: A funky house track that became a club hit, known for its infectious energy and catchy hooks.
Stardust- Music Sounds Better With You: A quintessential funky house track, blending disco influences with a modern house groove.
House music is a genre that continues to evolve, with its subgenres offering a rich tapestry of sounds and experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the deep, soulful vibes of deep house or the raw, hypnotic beats of acid house, there’s a style of house music for every mood and moment. As you explore these subgenres, you’ll discover the enduring appeal of house music and its ability to bring people together on the dance floor, no matter where they are in the world.
Clovermind Music LLC
A blog by Christopher Grehan
