The NOW Popular Dubstep

At MG21, an alternative high school located in Monona, WI, the students are in the process of expanding their knowledge regarding music. Another instructor and I teach a variety of music-related topics including recording, mixing, techniques, lyric writing, and digital music creation. They have been given a wonderful opportunity to learn for free while others pay or learn on their own. One of the main attractions for the students is the ability to create their own beats or instrumentals. How to make Dubstep has become the number one request amongst the students.

Between the other instructor and I, we have accumulated a mass amount of experience regarding music. However, Dubstep hasn’t been an explored genre for either of us. We both enjoy listening to the music, but hadn’t really understood its significance in the music world. How could I teach a group of students about a genre if I didn’t understand its main components? I decided to do a little research so I could compile a list of Dubstep traits, and be able to provide an understanding of the genre for the students. Here is what I found:

1. A note progression is consistent

2. Synthesizer sounds are prominent with typical envelope movement

3. Basses are typically hard and wobbly

4. Kicks are hard, constant, and prominent

5. Most songs are free form, there is no formula

Dubstep was founded in the early 90's in southern London. It had not been referred to as Dubstep until 2002 when the name was officially proclaimed. It has made its way through the underground music scene, taking on dark atmospheric presence with deep and loud bass, harsh kicks, and wobbling synthesizers. London paved the way for its growth, and throughout the 90's became popular in England. Just before the turn of the century, Dubstep was becoming popular amongst underground DJs. It progressed throughout the decade and has become popular in the mainstream music scene, especially over the past two years. While Dubstep has never followed a formula, recent popularity has produced many sound-alike productions.

Even though Dubstep may be a short-lived genre of popularity (which many long-time fans of the genre would like), its impact will be heard on many songs in the near future. Hip-hop, pop, and rock artists are already adapting many of the sounds typically heard in Dubstep and applying it to their own music. While many believe the popularity of Dubstep will dilute and possibly destroy the genre’s underground title of yesteryear, many others are looking forward to what changes it can make in their own music.