Big beat facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big beat |
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Stylistic origins | Electronica, alternative rock, punk rock, trip hop, drum and bass, psychedelic rock, beat music, house |
Cultural origins | mid-1990s United Kingdom |
Typical instruments | Keyboards, turntables, synthesizer, guitar, bass, drums, drum machine, sequencer, sampler, digital effects |
Big beat is an exciting type of dance music. It became very popular in the late 1990s. Think of it as a cool mix of different music styles. It takes sounds from drum and bass, alternative rock, trip-hop, and even punk rock. This mix creates a powerful and energetic sound.
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What is Big Beat Music?
Big beat music is known for its strong, heavy beat. It often uses breakbeat rhythms, which are like drum patterns from old funk or hip-hop songs. Artists use samplers to take small parts of other songs. They then loop these parts and add them to their own music. This creates a unique and catchy sound.
How Big Beat Sounds
The music usually has a fast tempo, which means it's great for dancing. You will often hear loud synthesizer sounds and strong basslines. Many big beat songs also include parts of rock music or psychedelic rock. This makes the music feel very big and exciting. It's like a party in your ears!
Where Did Big Beat Come From?
Big beat music started in the United Kingdom in the mid-1990s. It grew out of the electronic music scene. DJs and producers wanted to make dance music that was different. They wanted to mix the energy of rock with the rhythms of electronic music. This new sound quickly became popular in clubs and at music festivals.
Famous Big Beat Artists
Many artists helped make big beat famous around the world. These musicians created some of the most well-known big beat tracks.
The Chemical Brothers
The Chemical Brothers are one of the most important big beat groups. They are from England. Their music is known for its powerful beats and unique electronic sounds. They released many popular songs like "Block Rockin' Beats". They often perform live shows that are full of energy.

Fatboy Slim
Fatboy Slim is another huge name in big beat. His real name is Norman Cook. He is famous for his fun and catchy songs. He often uses interesting samples from old records. Songs like "Praise You" and "The Rockafeller Skank" made him a global superstar. His music videos were also very creative and popular.
The Prodigy
While The Prodigy started earlier, they also played a big role in the big beat sound. They mixed electronic music with punk rock energy. Their songs are very intense and powerful. They are known for their energetic live performances.
The Crystal Method
The Crystal Method is an American electronic music duo. They also helped define the big beat sound. Their music is often used in movies, TV shows, and video games. They are known for their strong beats and exciting electronic melodies.

Big Beat's Legacy
Big beat was very popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It influenced many other electronic music genres. It showed that electronic music could be powerful and exciting. It also helped bring electronic dance music to a wider audience. Even today, you can hear its influence in modern dance tracks.
See also
In Spanish: Big beat para niños