What is house music?

House music is defined by its steady four-on-the-floor beat, soulful elements, and emphasis on groove, setting it apart from the harder, more aggressive sounds of techno or the breakbeats of drum and bass.

House music has continually evolved, embracing diverse influences as artists explore more experimental and fusion sounds.

House music has played a pivotal role in shaping pop, R&B, and hip-hop, driving the mainstream acceptance of electronic dance music.

Popular house music subgenres include deep house, tech house, progressive house, and acid house.

Key elements include a steady four-on-the-floor beat, deep and prominent basslines, vibrant synthesizer riffs, and often soulful, expressive vocals.

Vocals in house music range from full-length songs to short, repetitive phrases. These vocals are often sampled, processed, and manipulated to seamlessly blend with the track's groove, enhancing its rhythm and energy.

Popular software for producing house music includes Ableton Live, FL Studio, and a variety of VST plugins for advanced sound design.

House music emerged in Chicago, Illinois, during the early 1980s, evolving from disco and other musical influences.

Some of the most influential house artists include Frankie Knuckles, Larry Heard, Marshall Jefferson, and Daft Punk. These pioneers helped shape the sound and culture of house music, influencing generations of artists and fans worldwide.

Ghost production is a common practice in house music, where established artists collaborate with ghost producers to enhance their creative output.