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Deep House music emerged in the early 1980s in Chicago, Illinois, as a subgenre of House music. It is characterized by its use of complex melodies, soulful vocals, and intricate basslines. The term "deep" refers to the emotional depth and introspective qualities of the music.
Deep House gained popularity in the underground club scene in Chicago and New York in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with DJs such as Frankie Knuckles and Larry Heard leading the movement. The genre's popularity continued to grow in Europe in the 1990s, with the emergence of artists such as Kerri Chandler, DJ Sneak, and Masters at Work.
Deep House has since evolved to encompass a wider range of styles and influences, including jazz, funk, and soul. The genre continues to thrive in underground club scenes around the world, with a dedicated following of fans who appreciate its emotional depth and musical complexity.
Step into the world of Deep House, a genre that weaves soulful melodies, infectious grooves, and heartfelt vocals into a tapestry of emotive electronic music. In this journey, we explore the artists who have shaped and defined the genre, from the pioneers who laid its foundation to the modern visionaries who continue to push its boundaries.
Larry Heard (Mr. Fingers): A pioneer of Deep House, Larry Heard's soulful and emotive productions laid the foundation for the genre, blending intricate melodies with warm, deep basslines.
Kerri Chandler: Known for his soulful and jazzy approach to Deep House, Kerri Chandler's productions and DJ sets showcase a distinct blend of grooves, melodies, and heartfelt vocals.
Dennis Ferrer: With his blend of soul, jazz, and Latin influences, Dennis Ferrer has been a key figure in shaping the Deep House sound, characterized by infectious rhythms and rich musicality.
Osunlade: Known for infusing spiritual and African elements into his Deep House compositions, Osunlade's music creates a deep and introspective atmosphere.
Marshall Jefferson: As a prominent figure in Chicago House, Marshall Jefferson's contributions to Deep House include iconic tracks like "Move Your Body," which exemplify the genre's soulful and groovy essence.
Maya Jane Coles: Her versatile productions have spanned various electronic genres, but Maya Jane Coles' deep and atmospheric tracks have had a significant impact on the Deep House scene.
Frankie Knuckles: While primarily associated with Chicago House, Frankie Knuckles' influential work as a DJ and producer has transcended genres, contributing to the development of Deep House.
Motor City Drum Ensemble: Known for his eclectic and soulful Deep House selections, Motor City Drum Ensemble (MCDE) has garnered acclaim for his DJ sets and productions that blend deep grooves with diverse musical influences.
Deep House has evolved into a timeless and cherished form of musical expression. So, let the groove guide you, let the melodies embrace you, and may the spirit of Deep House continue to resonate within you, long after the music fades.
In this curated selection, we explore a chronological journey through Deep House's history, highlighting standout songs and albums that have defined and shaped the genre's distinct characteristics.
1980s:
1986: Mr. Fingers - "Can You Feel It" (song): Considered a Deep House anthem, this track by Larry Heard (Mr. Fingers) laid the foundation for the genre with its soulful melodies and deep basslines.
1990s:
1993: Kerri Chandler - "Atmosphere EP" (album): A seminal release by Kerri Chandler, this EP showcased his signature blend of deep grooves, soulful vocals, and atmospheric elements.
2000s:
2001: Osunlade - "Paradigm" (album): Osunlade's album is a masterclass in deep and soulful House music, incorporating spiritual and African influences.
2008: Motor City Drum Ensemble - "Raw Cuts" series (songs): A series of tracks by Motor City Drum Ensemble, known for their deep and groovy nature, capturing the essence of Deep House.
2009: Dennis Ferrer - "Hey Hey" (song): A classic Deep House track, Dennis Ferrer's production combined infectious rhythms, captivating vocals, and soulful vibes.
2010s:
2013: Maya Jane Coles - "Comfort" (album): Maya Jane Coles' debut album showcases her versatile production skills, blending deep and atmospheric elements with catchy melodies.
2013: Disclosure - "Settle" (album): A breakthrough album for Disclosure, featuring a fusion of Deep House with pop sensibilities and infectious hooks.
2020s:
2020: Jayda G - "Both of Us" (song): A feel-good Deep House track by Jayda G, known for her captivating vocals and infectious grooves.
2021: Bicep - "Isles" (album): Bicep's album explores the boundaries of Deep House and electronica, offering a mesmerizing blend of atmospheric sounds and rhythmic beats.
As we conclude our journey through the decades of Deep House, we are reminded of the genre's enduring appeal and its ability to create a sense of unity and euphoria on the dance floor. From the early pioneers who established its foundations to the modern innovators pushing its boundaries, Deep House has continued to evolve and captivate audiences around the world.
Some of the popular music festivals and events that represent the Deep House music genre include Defected Croatia, Amsterdam Dance Event, Miami Music Week, and Sunwaves Festival.
These festivals showcase a diverse range of Deep House music sub-genres, including soulful house, tech house, and Afro house.
Famous Deep House DJs such as Dixon, Black Coffee, Solomun, and Kerri Chandler often perform at these events, attracting a sizable audience of Deep House music enthusiasts from all over the world. These festivals and events provide a platform for emerging and established Deep House artists to showcase their talent and connect with their fans.