With the popularity of electronic dance music at an all-time high, it's no wonder that a new genre of music has been taking the world by storm – dubstep. But what exactly is dubstep? Where did it come from? And how can you get into this rapidly growing scene?
In this ultimate guide, we'll answer all of these questions and more. So if you're ready to learn everything there is to know about dubstep, let's get started!
What is Dubstep?
Dubstep is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the early 2000s. Its wobbly basslines, syncopated drum patterns, and sparse melodies are characterized. Dubstep entered the mainstream in the UK in the late 2000s and early 2010s, with more singles and remixes entering the music charts. In recent years, dubstep has also gained popularity in the US, thanks partly to producers like Skrillex, who have fused it with other genres like electro-house and heavy metal.
It is characterized by its heavy bass and drumbeat and use of samples and synthesizers. Dubstep originated in Jamaican dub music and was further influenced by garage and grime.
History of Dubstep
Dubstep emerged in the early 2000s, with producers like Horsepower Productions and El-B creating tracks that would lay the foundations for the genre. In 2003, Dizzee Rascal released his debut album Boy in da Corner, which featured several dubstep tracks and helped to bring the genre to a wider audience.
In 2007, dubstep entered the mainstream in the UK, with hits like M.I.A.'s “Paper Planes” and Santogold's “L.E.S. Artistes” incorporating elements of the genre. This trend continued in 2008, with artists like Rihanna and Katy Perry releasing songs that featured dubstep breakdowns.
In 2010, dubstep producer Skrillex released his debut album, Scary Monsters, and Nice Sprites, which featured several heavily-produced dubstep tracks. The album was a commercial success and helped increase dubstep's popularity in the US.
Since then, dubstep has grown in popularity, with producers like Flux Pavilion and Zeds Dead releasing successful albums and singles. In recent years, the genre has also begun to influence other genres, with artists like Marshmello and Slushii incorporating dubstep elements into their music.
Why Is It Called Dubstep?
The music is characterized by its heavy bass, drumbeat, and slow tempo. It was originally called “dub” after the dub-reggae genre of music which it inspired. The “step” comes from its origins in the 2 step garage genre of music.
While dubstep may have originated in the early 2000s, it has continued to evolve and grow in popularity. Thanks to producers like Skrillex, who have fused it with other genres, dubstep has become one of the most popular electronic music genres.
Who Is Dubstep King?
The style emerged as a subgenre of UK garage and grime and has since evolved into a distinct genre. The most recognized Dubstep pioneers are D.J./producer Skrillex and Sonny Moore. He is largely responsible for popularizing the genre outside of the United Kingdom. His 2010 single “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites” was one of the first mainstream hits to use dubstep elements.
Moreover, Moore's work with the American rock band From First to Last, as well as his solo career, helped to bring the attention of a younger audience to dubstep. Some other important early figures in the dubstep scene include producers/D.J.s such as Rusko, Caspa, and Benga.
What's The First Dubstep Song?
The first dubstep song to reach number one in the UK was “Louder,” featuring Sian Evans. This song made history when it was released ten years ago. The popularity began to grow in the mid-2000s when artists such as Skream, Benga, Rusko, and Caspa started becoming well-known in the underground music scene.
This album helped to further popularize dubstep music in America. Since then, dubstep has continued to grow in popularity worldwide. It is characterized by its heavy bass lines and synths that create a unique soundscape.
Who Popularized Dubstep?
John Peel is credited with popularizing dubstep to a wider audience. He did this through his radio show on B.B.C. Radio 1. Before that, dubstep was an underground music genre popular among British producers and D.J.s. John Peel began playing dubstep tracks on his radio show, which helped to increase the genre's popularity. In recent years, artists like Skrillex and Flux Pavilion have continued to popularize dubstep to a wider audience. Thanks to these artists, dubstep has become one of the most popular genres of electronic dance music.
Also, the release of albums like Scary Monsters, and Nice Sprites, which featured several dubstep songs also helped to further popularize dubstep. Since then, it has continued to grow in popularity worldwide. Today, some of the most well-known dubstep artists include Zeds Dead, Excision, and Flux Pavilion.
What Music Styles Is Dubstep Based On?
Dubstep is a genre characterized by its heavy bass lines and synths that create a unique soundscape. Dubstep tracks often have a slow tempo and are frequently interspersed with breakbeats. The genre was created by British producers and D.J.s who were influenced by the garage, grime, and dub music.
It is a subgenre of electronic dance music with roots in Jamaican dub, British drum N bass, and garage. The dubstep genre was pioneered in the 1960s and 1970s by Jamaican musicians who created a new style of music that was bass-heavy and remix-friendly. This new style of dub music served as a deeply important forerunner for the development of dubstep.
Also, dubstep has been influenced by garage music. In the early 2000s, dubstep producers began experimenting with garage music elements. This led to the development of a new subgenre of dubstep known as the dark garage. A dark garage is characterized by dark and moody atmospheres, minimal soundscapes, and deep bass lines.
So overall, dubstep is based on Jamaican dub, British drum N bass, garage, and grime music. These genres have all influenced the sound and style of dubstep.
Did Skrillex Invent Dubstep?
Though the sound of dubstep originated from productions by El-B, Steve Gurley, Oris Jay, and Zed Bias in 1999-2000, Skrillex is an electronic music producer who is commonly credited with popularizing the genre. His unique production style often features house, dubstep, drum and bass, and drum step.
Skrillex's first taste of mainstream success came with the release of his 2010 single “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites,” which hit number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart. He has since released several more singles, including “Bangarang” and “Recess,” both of which have also topped the dance charts. Skrillex is also a member of the electronic music supergroup Jack Ü, along with fellow producer Diplo.
Also, in 2013, Skrillex won three Grammy Awards for his work on the singles “Bangarang” and “Levels,” as well as for Best Dance Recording for the song “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites.”
While it is clear that Skrillex has greatly impacted the evolution of dubstep, it cannot be said that he invented the genre. Rather, he helped to popularize it, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
FAQs
Is Dubstep The Same As EDM?
The main difference between dubstep and EDM. is that dubstep focuses more on bass sounds, while E.D.M. relies more on drums and vocals. While both styles have unique perks, they add greatly to any D.J. set. They can enhance a night out at the club with soulful electronic-influenced music. Also, both styles can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're a fan of dubstep or EDM., there's sure to be something for everyone.
What Does Dubstep Sound Like?
Dubstep is a genre that is characterized by its heavy bass and drum sounds. It often has a dark, eerie feeling, which can be perfect for setting the mood at a party or club. Additionally, many dubstep tracks feature elements of other genres, such as hip hop or trap. Moreover, dubstep often contains samples of other songs, which can give it an even more unique sound. This makes dubstep a very versatile genre that can appeal to a wide range of listeners.
Where Did Dubstep Come From?
Dubstep sounds originated in the early 2000s in the United Kingdom. It was created by a group of D.J.s and producers looking to experiment with new sounds. Since then, dubstep has evolved and changed, but it still maintains its heavy bass and drum sound. Also, dubstep has gained popularity worldwide, with artists from different countries putting their own spin on the genre.
Who Are Some Popular Dubstep Artists?
Some popular dubstep artists include Skrillex, Nero, and Chase & Status. These artists have helped to bring dubstep to the mainstream and have gained a large following among fans of the genre. Additionally, many up-and-coming dubstep artists are making a name for themselves. As the genre continues to grow in popularity, there is sure to be even more great music from this talented group of artists.
How Can I Get Into Dubstep?
If you're interested in getting into mainstream dubstep, take some time to listen to some of the most popular tracks. This will give you a good idea of what the genre sounds like and its main characteristics. Additionally, you can attend dubstep events or festivals. These are great places to hear new music and meet other people interested in the genre. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with your sound. There are no rules in dubstep, so feel free to create your unique style.
Conclusion
With its heavy bass and distorted synths, dubstep is a genre of electronic music that has taken the world by storm. For many, dubstep is the perfect balance between hard and soft, fast and slow. It's a genre that is constantly evolving, with new artists emerging all the time who are pushing the boundaries of what dubstep can be.
While it may have started as a niche genre, dubstep has now gone mainstream, with everyone from pop stars to film directors incorporating it into their work. We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of dubstep and how it can be used to create some truly amazing music.
Feel free to experiment with the genre, and who knows, you may just come up with the next big dubstep hit!
