What is “Detroit House” Music?
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If you’re a fan of electronic dance music, you’ve probably heard the term “Detroit house” thrown around. But what is Detroit house music, exactly? In this blog post, we’ll explore the history and sound of this genre, and some of its most famous pioneers.
Origins
Detroit house music is a subgenre of house music that originated in Detroit, Michigan in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The style is characterized by a deep, heavy bass line and a slower tempo than other house music subgenres. The first Detroit house track is believed to be “String of Life” by Rhythim is Rhythim, which was released in 1987.
First wave of Detroit techno
The first wave of Detroit techno is often credited to Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson, who were the three main originators of the sound in the mid-1980s. All three artists attended Belleville High School in Belleville, Michigan, just outside of Detroit. Atkins was the first to release music under the name Model 500 with his 1985 single “No UFOs,” followed by May’s “Big Fun” in 1988. Saunderson’s group Inner City would also have several hits throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Second wave of Detroit techno
The second wave of Detroit techno is generally considered to have started in the early 1990s and reached its height in the mid-1990s. This period was characterized by a move away from the relatively simple, sparse sound of early Detroit techno towards a more complex, layered sound. Producers also began to experiment more with different sounds and textures, and to incorporate elements from other genres such as house, Soul, R&B, and Hip Hop.
Characteristics
Detroit house music is a subgenre of house music that originated in Detroit, Michigan in the early 1990s. It is characterized by a deep, hard-hitting bassline and a four-on-the-floor drum beat. The music is often tinged with elements of techno, jazz, and soul.
Melodic elements
The melodies in Detroit house music are often emotions and/or vibe based. The feel of the music is more important to the overall sound than the actual notes being played. This is why a lot of Detroit house tracks have a feeling of being repetitive, but never boring.
Rhythmic elements
Detroit house music relies on strong, insistent 4/4 kick drums—often heavily compressed to sound almost like a thudding heartbeat—layered with simpler hi-hat patterns and snares. These drums typically are placed dead center in the mix, giving them the drive and energy that is characteristic of the genre.
Percussive elements
An important characteristic of Detroit house music is its use of percussive elements. The Roland TR-909 drum machine, for example, is a key component of many Detroit house tracks. This machine provides the music with a driving, insistent beat that is perfect for dancing. Other percussion instruments, such as claps, cymbals, and snares, are often used to create a more complex and layered sound.
Notable artists
Juan Atkins
Juan Atkins is an African American musician born in Detroit, Michigan, considered to be the originator of techno music, specifically Detroit techno along with Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson. He has variously worked under the pseudonyms Model 500, Channel X, Infiniti, Magic Juan. Atkins was born in Detroit on December 9, 1962. When he was seven, his sisters began to teach him how to play the piano. His first musical experience was singing in the church choir at St. Joseph’s Mercy Hospital on Charlevoix Street in Detroit.
Derrick May
Derrick May, from Detroit, Michigan, is considered to be one of the fathers of the Detroit techno sound. He was a resident DJ at the Music Institute and a member of the Belleville Three with Juan Atkins and Kevin Saunderson. His first single, “Nude Photo,” was released in 1985 on his own label, Transmat. In 1987, he founded the record label Relief with fellow Detroit techno producer Carl Craig.
Carl Craig
Craig is a Grammy-nominated producer, composer, DJ and visual artist from Detroit, Michigan. He is best known for his work in the techno and house music genres, and is considered one of the most important figures in the history of those genres. His work has been influential to many subsequent producers and DJs.
