Turntablism, the art of manipulating sounds and creating new music through turntables, has a storied history that mirrors the evolution of modern music itself. It’s a tale of innovation, culture, and the enduring appeal of vinyl records.
Humble Beginnings
The roots of turntablism can be traced back to the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, when experimental composers began using turntables as instruments to create musique concrète1. However, it wasn’t until the late 1970s, within the African-American inner-city hip-hop culture, that turntablism began to take the shape we recognize today. Icons like Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, and Grandmaster Flash are credited with cementing the DJ’s role as a pivotal element of hip-hop2.
The Vinyl Revolution
Parallel to the rise of turntablism was the invention of vinyl records. The grandfather of the modern vinyl record was the phonograph, created by Thomas Edison in 1877. This device laid the groundwork for the gramophone and eventually the turntables used by DJs3. The first mass-produced vinyl records appeared in 1930, made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), offering a more durable and flexible medium for music than the shellac records that preceded them4.
Rise to Fame
Turntablism as an art form gained momentum in the 1990s, with the term itself being popularized by DJ Babu to distinguish between traditional DJs and those who manipulate records to produce new sounds5. This era saw turntablists pushing the boundaries of what could be achieved with a pair of turntables and a mixer, leading to the development of complex scratching techniques and battles.
Modern-Day Maestros
Today, turntablism has transcended its street origins to become a global phenomenon. DJs perform on the largest stages and packed stadiums, showcasing their skills in front of thousands of fans. The tactile feel of vinyl and the analog warmth of the sound continue to attract both artists and audiences, keeping the spirit of the original turntablists alive.
The Vinyl Resurgence
In recent years, there’s been a resurgence in vinyl’s popularity, with music enthusiasts seeking the authentic sound quality and tangible connection to music that vinyl records provide. This revival has ensured that turntablism remains relevant and continues to evolve, blending the nostalgia of the past with the digital innovations of the future.
Turntablism’s journey from the streets to the spotlight is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of DJs who have turned a simple act of playing records into a full-fledged musical movement. As long as there are vinyl records to spin, the art of turntablism will continue to thrive and inspire new generations of artists.