Category:Big Beat

Big Beat is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the mid-1990s, characterized by its heavy breakbeats, distorted basslines, and rock and hip-hop influences. Popularized by UK artists and labels, big beat became synonymous with high-energy, festival-friendly dance music, often featuring vocal samples, guitar riffs, and a mix of live and electronic instrumentation.

• Heavy breakbeats and syncopated drum patterns, often sampled from funk and hip-hop.
• Distorted and prominent basslines, adding a gritty, aggressive sound.
• Rock, hip-hop, and rave influences, blending electronic elements with live instrumentation.
• Frequent use of vocal samples and film dialogue, adding a cinematic quality.
• Designed for high-energy club and festival environments, often featuring big drops and crowd-pleasing hooks.

Big Beat was championed by various artists and labels, including:

• Skint Records
• Wall of Sound
• Astralwerks

Notable artists in the genre include:

• The Chemical Brothers
• The Prodigy
• Fatboy Slim
• The Crystal Method
• Propellerheads
• Bentley Rhythm Ace