Bounce music is a genre of music originated in New Orleans, Louisiana. The spelling of the word "bounce" in the genre's name is often mispronounced due to its non-standard English spelling. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /baʊns/ which represents the sound in the word "house". The spelling "bounce" reflects the pronunciation of the word with a nasalized vowel sound instead of a typical "o" sound. The correct pronunciation of "bounce music" is /bɑʊns mjuːzɪk/.
Bounce music is a highly energetic and rhythmic genre that originated in New Orleans, Louisiana. It emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s and gained popularity for its infectious beats and explicit lyrics. Bounce music is characterized by its distinctive call-and-response style, where the rapper or DJ prompts the audience to respond to their chants, creating an engaging and interactive atmosphere.
The genre is heavily influenced by various musical styles like hip-hop, dance, and electronic music, which are blended together with traditional New Orleans bounce rhythms. These rhythms are marked by their rapid tempo, repetitive drum patterns, and the prominent use of distinctive local samples, often taken from popular songs, and mixed with synthesized sounds.
Lyrically, bounce music is known for its sexually explicit and sometimes controversial content, with lyrics centering around topics like sexuality, empowerment, and celebrating urban life. It often features quick, humorous wordplay and repetitive catchphrases that invite the crowd to participate by dancing and reacting energetically.
Bounce music is famous for its vibrant and boisterous live performances, where dancers and performers use their bodies to interpret the music's rhythmic and dynamic elements. It has become an integral part of the New Orleans cultural scene and a symbol of resilience and self-expression for local communities.
Over the years, bounce music has influenced and inspired numerous artists and genres, contributing to the rich tapestry of the New Orleans music scene and influencing the global music landscape.
The etymology of the term "bounce music" can be traced back to the local slang of the African-American community in New Orleans, Louisiana. The term originated in the 1990s and was primarily associated with a unique style of hip-hop and dance music that emerged from the city's vibrant music scene.
The term "bounce" itself can be understood as a reference to the energetic and rhythmic nature of the music. It reflects the lively and bouncy beats that characterize the genre. Additionally, it is said that the term may also relate to the action of people dancing and bouncing to the music at parties and clubs where bounce music was popularized.
The sound of bounce music often incorporates repetitive and looped samples, catchy call-and-response chants, and fast-paced, bass-heavy beats. It has been deeply rooted in the local culture of New Orleans and has played a significant role in shaping the city's music landscape.