The 90’s Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Revolution
The 1990s was a pivotal era for electronic dance music (EDM). The genre had been around for decades, but it was the 90’s that truly saw it explode onto the mainstream scene. With the rise of clubs, festivals, and radio stations, EDM became a staple of popular culture. In this article, we’ll delve into the 12 pioneering tracks that helped shape the 90’s EDM revolution.
1. Daft Punk – “Da Funk” (1995)
French duo Daft Punk’s debut single “Da Funk” is a genre-defining track that introduced the world to their signature blend of disco, house, and techno. With its infectious bassline and filtered vocals, “Da Funk” became an anthem for the underground rave scene.
2. Chemical Brothers – “Setting Sun” (1996)
This critically acclaimed track by the British duo The Chemical Brothers brought a new level of production quality to the genre. With its driving beats, catchy hooks, and liberal use of samples, “Setting Sun” showcased the brothers’ ability to create energetic and danceable anthems.
3. Fatboy Slim – “The Rockafeller Skank” (1998)
Signed to Skint Records, Fatboy Slim (Norman Cook) exploded onto the scene with “The Rockafeller Skank.” This upbeat track’s infectious horn riffs, filtered vocals, and relentless energy made it an instant hit, and helped establish Cook as one of the genre’s leading acts.
4. Underworld – “Born Slippy” (1995)
As part of the Goldfrapp-produced “Trainspotting” soundtrack, Underworld’s “Born Slippy” was a groundbreaking track that incorporated elements of techno, drum and bass, and vocal-driven songwriting. This innovative approach helped propel Underworld to international acclaim.
5. The Prodigy – “Breathe” (1996)
The Prodigy, a British trio known for their high-energy live shows, released “Breathe” as a follow-up to their breakthrough hit “Charly.” With its driving beats, screeching guitars, and Keith Flint’s signature howls, “Breathe” solidified the group’s status as punk-influenced electronic stalwarts.
6. Apollo 440 – “Stop the Rock” (1999)
This British collective, formed by brothers Tom and Trevor Gray, was heavily influenced by 70’s disco and funk. Their debut single “Stop the Rock” showcased their signature blend of retro sounds, driving beats, and futuristic production techniques.
7. The Crystal Method – “Busy Child” (1997)
American duo The Crystal Method, consisting of Scott Kirkland and Ken Jordan, released “Busy Child” as a breakthrough single. This euphoric track’s catchy piano riff, soaring synths, and driving beats encapsulated the duo’s distinctive sound.
8. Basement Jaxx – “Red Alert” (1997)
This British duo’s debut single “Red Alert” was a groundbreaking release that combined elements of breakbeat, techno, and house. With its energetic beats, catchy hooks, and vocal-driven songwriting, “Red Alert” established Basement Jaxx as one of the era’s most innovative acts.
9. Moby – “Porcelain” (1993)
American musician Moby’s debut single “Porcelain” is a hauntingly beautiful track that showcased his unique blend of ambient textures, sweeping orchestral arrangements, and emotive vocals. “Porcelain” has become a timeless classic within the genre.
10. Snap! – “Rhythm Is a Dancer” (1992)
This German act’s breakout hit “Rhythm Is a Dancer” was a floor-filling anthem that captured the essence of the late 80’s and early 90’s rave scene. With its infectious melody, driving beats, and catchy hooks, “Rhythm Is a Dancer” remains a staple of EDM playlists.
11. Groove Armada – “Superstylin'” (1999)
This British duo’s debut single “Superstylin'” blended elements of house, trip-hop, and drum and bass to create a sonic masterpiece. With its haunting vocals, driving beats, and atmospheric textures, “Superstylin'” demonstrated Groove Armada’s innovative approach to production.
12. Air – “Sexy Boy” (1998)
This French duo, comprised of Nicolas Godin and Jean-Benoît Dunckel, brought a touch of elegance to the genre with their breakthrough single “Sexy Boy.” With its lush textures, atmospheric synths, and catchy hooks, “Sexy Boy” showcased Air’s ability to craft beautiful and captivating electronic music.
Conclusion
The 90’s were a transformative era for EDM, with the genre breaking into the mainstream and adopting new styles, sounds, and influences. The pioneering tracks listed above helped shape the genre’s evolution and paved the way for the electronic dance music scene that exists today. These trailblazing artists, armed with innovative production techniques and a passion for their craft, brought the world into a new era of dance floor anthems, soundtracks, and innovative electronica.
FAQs
Q: What is electronic dance music (EDM)?
A: EDM refers to a broad range of electronic music genres that emphasize rhythm, melody, and beats, often created with the intention of getting people to dance.
Q: Which genres did the 90’s EDM revolution encompass?
A: The 90’s EDM revolution included sub-genres such as acid house, techno, breakbeat, drum and bass, trip-hop, ambient, and more.
Q: What was the significance of the 90’s in the development of EDM?
A: The 90’s saw EDM transition from an underground movement to a mainstream phenomenon, with widespread commercial success, festival bookings, and radio airplay.
Q: Who are some notable EDM artists from the 90’s?
A: Notable EDM artists from the 90’s include Daft Punk, The Chemical Brothers, Fatboy Slim, Underworld, The Prodigy, Apollo 440, The Crystal Method, Basement Jaxx, Moby, Snap!, Groove Armada, and Air.
Q: What legacy did the 90’s EDM revolution leave behind?
A: The 90’s EDM revolution laid the foundation for the modern electronic music scene, influencing countless acts and paving the way for the genre’s continued growth and evolution.
Q: Where can I listen to 90’s EDM tracks?
A: You can listen to 90’s EDM tracks on music streaming platforms, online radio stations, or purchase them on CD, vinyl, or digital download.
