Category:Breaks

Breaks refers to a DJing and production style that focuses on cutting, looping, and editing the break sections of rare groove, soul, jazz, pop, and hip-hop records. Unlike breakbeat, which is a genre built around syncopated drum patterns, breaks emphasize the use of drum breaks from older recordings, often manipulated using turntablism techniques or digital sampling. This style is closely associated with hip-hop, funk, and crate-digging culture.

Characteristics

• Focus on break sections of records, often sampled from classic funk, jazz, and soul tracks.
• Heavy use of turntablism techniques, such as cutting, scratching, and beat juggling.
• Loop-based and sample-driven, emphasizing groove and rhythm.
• Strong connection to hip-hop and rare groove culture, often used in DJ sets and beat-making.
• Influence on hip-hop production and sample-based electronic music, forming the foundation of many classic beats.

Artists and Labels

Breaks have been championed by various artists and labels, including:

• Mo'Wax
• Ninja Tune
• Stones Throw Records

Notable artists in the style include:

• DJ Shadow
• Cut Chemist
• DJ Krush
• Madlib
• DJ Premier
• Kenny Dope