In the constantly revolving door that is music trends, one genre of music is having a major moment. House music, coined in the 1980s, combines deep beats, vocal samples and snippets, and repetitive basslines to create a groovy, dance-inducing vibe that's sure to keep the summertime rolling.
Contrary to popular belief, the college party scene (i.e., white frat boys) has had little to no hand in creating this revolutionary type of dance music. Beginning as an underground genre influenced by the Chicago club scene
in the early 1980s, it was embraced by minorities, including the LGBTQ+ community, African American, and Latino communities. In a similar regard, techno (the sister genre) began emerging in Detroit, creating discourse about house’s true origins and development. By the late 1980s, the genres spread to New York and around Europe, creating a niche–but totally groovy–music scene.
What makes a house unique is its cultural impact and its ability to foster community and relationships. The origins of house embrace belonging and acceptance on the dance floor, regardless of race, gender, or orientation. House developed alongside Chicago’s first female mayor, the development of the public transportation system, and a cultural shift towards art appreciation and preservation, creating a more progressive culture.
To many, house is JOY and RESISTANCE, so it would make sense that during such a politically tumultuous time, the girls, gays, and theys would gather to dance. Therefore, house music is back and better than ever, integrating new sounds, samples, and technology, to create a safe space to embrace fluidity, build community, and bring joy back into the club scene.
My Top 5 House Songs of the Summer
- No Broke Boys by Disco Lines, Tinashe
- Afraid to Feel by LF SYSTEM
- Pepas by Farruko Dirty Cash
- (Money Talks) by PAWSA, The Adventures of Stevie V
- That Boy Is Mine by James Mac, Vall, Rosalie