Breakbeat

Definition

Breakbeat refers to a specific style of rhythm in music characterized by its use of syncopated drum patterns, often derived from hip hop and funk tracks. This term is especially significant in the context of early hip hop and rap, as breakbeats provided the essential backbone for many tracks, allowing DJs to create dynamic mixes and enabling MCs to showcase their lyrical skills over compelling grooves. The use of breakbeats revolutionized the sound of hip hop, influencing its development and leading to the emergence of new subgenres.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Breakbeats originated from funk and soul tracks that featured extended drum solos or 'breaks' where the rhythm section played prominently.
2. DJ Kool Herc is credited with pioneering the use of breakbeats in hip hop during the 1970s by isolating and looping these sections to extend the danceable parts of songs.
3. The emergence of breakbeat music led to the rise of breakdancing as a popular dance form closely associated with hip hop culture.
4. In addition to hip hop, breakbeats influenced various genres, including electronic dance music (EDM), particularly in the development of genres like jungle and drum and bass.
5. Breakbeat has played a significant role in shaping the sound of early rap music, providing a rhythmic foundation that allowed for creative expression and innovation among artists.

Review Questions

• How did breakbeat contribute to the evolution of early hip hop and rap music?
  • Breakbeat significantly influenced early hip hop and rap by providing a unique rhythmic structure that allowed DJs to create dynamic mixes. This style emerged from funk and soul tracks where drum breaks were isolated and looped, enabling MCs to showcase their lyrical talents over compelling rhythms. As DJs like Kool Herc popularized this technique, it transformed the overall sound of hip hop, paving the way for innovative production methods and the development of distinct subgenres.
• Discuss the relationship between breakbeat and other elements of hip hop culture, such as turntablism and breakdancing.
  • Breakbeat is intricately connected to turntablism and breakdancing within hip hop culture. Turntablism relies on the manipulation of breakbeats to create new sounds and rhythms, showcasing a DJ's skills and creativity. Meanwhile, breakdancing emerged as a physical expression of the energetic beats found in breakbeat music, allowing dancers to interpret the rhythms through movement. Together, these elements fostered a vibrant cultural scene that celebrated rhythm, dance, and artistry.
• Evaluate the impact of breakbeat on modern music genres outside of hip hop, considering its influence on electronic dance music.
  • The impact of breakbeat extends far beyond its origins in hip hop, significantly shaping modern electronic dance music genres such as jungle, drum and bass, and big beat. The syncopated rhythms and dynamic drum patterns characteristic of breakbeat have been adopted by numerous EDM producers who draw inspiration from its energy and complexity. This cross-pollination has led to innovative musical styles that blend elements from both hip hop and electronic music, demonstrating how breakbeat continues to influence artists across diverse genres today.

Related terms

Sampling: The process of taking a portion of a sound recording and reusing it in a different song or piece of music, which was integral to early hip hop production.

Turntablism: The art of manipulating sounds and creating music using turntables and DJ mixers, often utilizing breakbeats as a primary element.

MCing: The act of rapping or performing vocals over music, particularly in hip hop culture, where breakbeats often serve as the foundation for lyrics.