Drum and bass, often abbreviated as D&B or DnB, is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the early 1990s in the United Kingdom. It is characterized by fast breakbeats and heavy basslines, creating a high-energy and dynamic sound that has become a staple in dance music culture.
The roots of drum and bass can be traced back to the jungle and breakbeat scenes of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Jungle music, a precursor to drum and bass, combined elements of reggae, hip hop, and electronic music to create a raw and gritty sound that was popular in underground clubs in London and other UK cities.
As the jungle sound evolved, producers began to experiment with faster tempos and more intricate drum patterns, leading to the creation of drum and bass as a distinct genre. Artists like LTJ Bukem, Goldie, and Roni Size were instrumental in shaping the sound of drum and bass, blending influences from hip hop, techno, and dub to create a unique and innovative style of music.
In the mid-1990s, drum and bass experienced a surge in popularity with the rise of labels like Metalheadz, RAM Records, and Hospital Records, as well as the emergence of iconic club nights such as Fabio & Grooverider Rage and Goldie’s Metalheadz at the Blue Note. The genre gained mainstream recognition with chart hits like Goldie’s “Inner City Life” and Roni Size’s “Brown Paper Bag,” further establishing drum and bass as a powerful and influential force in electronic music.
In the early 2000s, drum and bass continued to evolve and diversify, with artists incorporating elements of jazz, soul, and funk into their music to create a more melodic and emotive sound. Labels like Hospital Records and Shogun Audio emerged as leaders in the scene, championing artists like High Contrast, London Elektricity, and Alix Perez, who pushed the boundaries of the genre and brought new influences to the table.
Today, drum and bass remains a vibrant and exciting genre, with a global fanbase and a thriving underground scene. Artists continue to push the boundaries of the genre, blending elements of jungle, dubstep, and house to create innovative and genre-defying music that captivates audiences around the world.
In conclusion, the history of drum and bass is a rich and diverse one, filled with innovation, creativity, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of electronic music. From its humble beginnings in the underground clubs of London to its current status as a global phenomenon, drum and bass has solidified its place as one of the most exciting and influential genres in electronic music.