Future bass

Definition

Future bass is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the mid-2010s, characterized by its rich harmonies, heavy use of synths, and distinct rhythmic patterns. It combines elements of pop music with electronic dance music (EDM), resulting in a sound that is both melodic and energetic, often featuring pitched vocal samples and a prominent bassline. This genre reflects the fusion of modern pop sensibilities with innovative production techniques, creating an accessible yet complex listening experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Future bass is heavily influenced by artists like Flume, who helped popularize the genre with his unique sound and production techniques.
2. The genre is known for its dynamic drops, where tension builds before releasing into a powerful bass-heavy section that energizes listeners.
3. Future bass often incorporates vocal chops, where vocal samples are manipulated to create catchy melodies and hooks.
4. This genre typically blends various musical elements from pop, R&B, and hip-hop, making it versatile for both dance floors and radio play.
5. Future bass has gained significant mainstream success, with tracks appearing on charts and being featured in advertisements, movies, and video games.

Review Questions

• How does future bass blend elements from both pop music and electronic dance music to create its distinctive sound?
  • Future bass blends pop music's catchy melodies and hooks with the energetic beats of electronic dance music. The genre utilizes rich harmonies typical of pop while incorporating the intricate production techniques of EDM, such as layering synths and manipulating vocal samples. This combination results in tracks that are both radio-friendly and danceable, appealing to a wide audience.
• Discuss the impact of artists like Flume on the future bass genre and how they have influenced its growth in the music industry.
  • Artists like Flume have significantly impacted the future bass genre by introducing innovative production techniques and unique sounds that define its characteristics. Flume's ability to blend diverse musical elements has opened up the genre to a broader audience, leading to collaborations with pop artists and mainstream success. His influence has helped shape future bass into a staple within the electronic music scene, driving its evolution and popularity in recent years.
• Evaluate how the incorporation of vocal chops in future bass contributes to its overall appeal in modern music culture.
  • The incorporation of vocal chops in future bass enhances its appeal by adding a layer of creativity and catchiness that resonates with listeners. These manipulated vocal samples can serve as memorable hooks that draw people in while also providing an emotional depth to the tracks. This technique not only showcases the producer's skill but also aligns with modern pop trends, making future bass a versatile genre capable of crossing over into various musical landscapes. As a result, it maintains relevance in an ever-evolving music culture.

Related terms

Synthwave: A genre that draws inspiration from 1980s music and culture, featuring synthesizers and nostalgic sounds, often evoking a retro-futuristic aesthetic.

Chillwave: An electronic music genre known for its lo-fi production style and dreamy soundscapes, often incorporating elements of nostalgia and introspection.

Trap: A subgenre of hip-hop and electronic music that is defined by its use of hi-hats, deep bass, and rhythmic vocal delivery, influencing many modern EDM styles including future bass.