Old Skool Dance

The Emergence of Old Skool Dance in the UK

Old Skool Dance - KISS FM
The Genesis of a Movement

Old Skool Dance music, often abbreviated to OSD, was born out of the rise of electronic music and the rave scene in the late 80s and early 90s. This genre was an exciting blend of different styles, including techno, house, hardcore, and drum and bass. What made OSD so unique was its incorporation of synthetic, hypnotic beats and euphoric melodies, which led to it becoming the soundtrack for a generation of ravers across the UK.

The Influencers

Key influencers of the OSD scene in the UK were pioneering DJs and producers like Carl Cox, The Prodigy, and Orbital. They honed a raw, untamed sound, blending pulsating beats and fast-paced rhythms, which became iconic for the genre. They took the energy of the burgeoning rave scene and injected it into their music, creating a new, vibrant form of dance music that resonated with the youth.

The Legacy

Despite its age, OSD maintains a significant presence in the UK dance scene. Many contemporary DJs and producers still draw inspiration from the raw and electric energy of Old Skool Dance. Its influences can be seen in the work of artists like Bicep and Daniel Avery, who often incorporate OSD elements into their music.

The UK Scene Today

Today, the UK Old Skool Dance scene is as vibrant as ever, with a new generation of artists and DJs breathing new life into the genre. Regular events and raves continue to celebrate OSD across the country, from the streets of London to the clubs of Manchester and the festivals of Brighton. The genre’s timeless appeal is in its ability to bring people together, instigating a sense of unity and joy through its pulsating rhythms and high-energy beats.

Experiencing Old Skool Dance

For those interested in experiencing the OSD scene in the UK, there are plenty of opportunities. Regular club nights and events dedicated to the genre take place across the country, particularly in cities with a strong musical heritage like Manchester, Bristol, and London. The internet is also a treasure trove of OSD tracks, with platforms like SoundCloud and Mixcloud offering endless hours of Old Skool Dance sets to explore.

UK artists and groups that have been influential in the Old Skool Dance scene
  • The Prodigy
    Known for their energetic and punk-infused take on electronic music, The Prodigy became synonymous with the rave scene in the 90s.
  • Carl Cox
    A figurehead in the world of dance music, Carl Cox's sets are legendary and his contributions to the Old Skool Dance scene are immeasurable.
  • Orbital
    Consisting of brothers Paul and Phil Hartnoll, Orbital is known for their live shows and atmospheric tracks that have become staples of the OSD genre.
  • 808 State
    From Manchester, 808 State was one of the pioneers of acid house, a key component of the Old Skool Dance scene.
  • A Guy Called Gerald
    Known for the seminal track "Voodoo Ray", A Guy Called Gerald is a central figure in the OSD scene.
  • Altern 8
    Altern 8, known for their chemical warfare suits and rave anthems, were emblematic of the early 90s rave scene.
  • The Shamen
    The Shamen blended psychedelic influences with electronic dance music, and their track "Move Any Mountain" is considered an OSD classic.
  • The KLF
    Known for their avant-garde approach to dance music, The KLF had several big hits and their influence on the OSD scene is profound.
  • N-Joi
    Known for their anthemic tracks such as "Anthem" and "Mindflux", N-Joi were regulars on the OSD scene.
  • SL2
    Consisting of DJs Slipmatt & Lime, SL2's track "On a Ragga Tip" is considered one of the defining tracks of the OSD genre.
Conclusion

The UK's Old Skool Dance scene represents an important piece of the country’s rich musical tapestry. It remains a genre that unites people on the dance floor, making it a powerful cultural phenomenon that will continue to resonate for many more generations.