Renowned for its deep basslines, rapid breakbeats, and infectious energy, jungle and drum and bass has undeniably shaped the soundscape of electronic music. To fully appreciate its essence, we need to acknowledge the significance black culture has had on the emergence of the genre.
Born in the multicultural neighbourhoods of London, where different communities came together to create something new and exciting. Artists, producers, and fans of all backgrounds have played an essential role in this journey, embracing the music and contributing their unique perspectives and talents. But the roots of drum and bass and jungle run deep within the diverse tapestry of Black music. The genre emerged as a dynamic fusion of acid house, reggae, dub, hip-hop, and breakbeat, with elements such as heavy basslines and intricate rhythms borrowed directly from Black music traditions.
Drum and bass often involves the use of samples from Black music, including vocals, and instrumentals and we can’t forget the huge influence dubplates, MCs and Sound Systems have on our scene. These practices pay direct homage to the musical heritage of Black culture.
Drum and bass is a testament to the idea that music knows no boundaries, that it can transcend race, culture, and geography to bring people together in celebration of the universal language of rhythm and bass.
As we continue to mark Black History Month, we chat to Degs and Winslow about how they would like to see Black History Month marked by UKF as well as other labels and brands. As with our previous piece, our conversations with these artists reveal why it is not only our privilege but our responsibility to educate ourselves about the best ways to honour and celebrate Black History Month within this vibrant, pulsating, and transformative subculture.
Words by: Degs
I would like to see Black History Month celebrated in the drum and bass community within a message of cohesion and inclusivity. We live in incredibly divided times in 2023 and it seems constructive events like Black History Month have been sucked into the regressive culture wars that seemingly dominate the public discourse at the moment. We shouldn’t be afraid to talk about the history and contributions of Black people in society, including the struggles and oppression; especially as the cultural aspects and generational hardships in Black communities were a huge catalyst for the creation of Drum & Bass. We can’t change history, but we can learn from it for the benefit of everyone.
The drum and bass community can encourage diversity through responsible action and continued discussion. A lot of promoters, labels, artists and ravers are trying their best and that should be celebrated. There’s more diversity in lineups now. There is a lot of work to do, and that work is sometimes held back by the rampant division in our society. The current phenomenon of calling people out without reasonable debate just doesn’t seem effective or practical to me. I’d love to see us be able to have difficult conversations positively.
Drum and Bass’ the unique fusion of culture is why I love it so much. Whether your background is sound system culture, hip-hop, acid house, techno, pop, rock, R&B, metal…you can co-exist in the same space and I think that’s mad! You can hear so many different genres and styles in the music, so many different approaches depending on what the creator has been influenced by. Even for me, the fact that my heritage can be a huge part of what I do shows how open drum and bass is in general- plus I like hearing ravers attempt to say Swahili words!
You can catch Degs at his show with Lens, Unglued & Whiney
Words by: Winslow
The drum and bass scene can celebrate Black History Month with heightened visibility to reach those who aren’t aware of the roots of this sound and culture. Representation matters more than ever, especially when introducing this sound and culture to the “casual passerby”. It’s easier to feel like you belong when you see someone who looks like you, coming from where you came from, doing the thing you want to do.
We should also be upfront, brands and labels should champion artists and the unique pieces they bring to this culture. Don’t rely on the often bemoaned “do your research” when it comes to history and instead present the facts as they are – past, present, and future. The more welcoming and understanding we are, the more this culture can flourish.
We should embrace everyone’s differences. Not just on a musical level but a human level. We all have our own stories and unique look at the world around us, and that informs everything we put into this culture. The music, the media, the raves. Drum and bass or not, we’re all people and the people are what make this culture what it is. Seek to understand and involve people who come from different backgrounds than you, who look different, who speak different, who are different.
Be inclusive, not exclusive. Dubs are exclusive- The Rave should be inclusive.
Drum & Bass is built on the outside influences brought in by the people who engage with and create it. It is very much a melting pot sound and there’s something for everyone in it. There’s hip-hop, soul, RnB, metal, jazz, blues, folk, orchestral, classical…you name it and you can find it within drum and bass. And if you aren’t hearing what you want, there’s space to create that.
A note from us
If you want to learn more about the origins of our beloved genre, a great place to start is “All Crews” by Brian Belle-Fortune. This seminal book, first published in 2004, has played an instrumental role in documenting, preserving, and celebrating the global phenomenon that is jungle and drum and bass music.
“All Crews” is an oral history, an anthology of voices and stories from the individuals who shaped and continue to shape this genre. Through interviews with artists, promoters, label owners, and fans, Belle-Fortune paints a vivid picture of the early days of jungle and drum and bass, from its humble beginnings to its global influence today.
One of the most compelling aspects of “All Crews” is its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Belle-Fortune ensures that a wide range of voices are represented, highlighting the genre’s multicultural and multiracial origins. It serves as a powerful testament to the fact that jungle and drum and bass have always been a melting pot of influences, a space where people from all backgrounds come together to create and celebrate music.
Belle-Fortune’s book captures the spirit of community that has been at the heart of jungle and drum and bass from the very beginning. It celebrates the raves, the sound systems, label heads and the shared experiences that have bound people together, fostering a sense of belonging and unity that continues to define the scene today.
In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, “All Crews” serves as a crucial historical document. It preserves the stories, struggles, and triumphs of a musical movement that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It’s a book that not only educates but also inspires, reminding us of the power of music to bring people together, break down barriers, and create lasting change.
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