Jungle Music: The High-Energy Roots of Drum and Bass

History of Jungle Music

Jungle music emerged in the early 1990s in the UK as a fast-paced, breakbeat-driven style of electronic dance music. Combining reggae and dancehall influences with rapid drum patterns and heavy basslines, jungle became a foundational genre leading to modern drum and bass. Its use of sampled breakbeats, deep bass, and MC vocals created a raw, urban sound that resonated with diverse audiences.

Significant Artists and DJs

1. Goldie – Iconic producer and DJ who brought jungle to mainstream attention.
2. LTJ Bukem – Known for atmospheric, jazzy jungle and drum and bass.
3. Shy FX – Pioneering jungle and drum and bass producer with a reggae touch.
4. Roni Size – Influential artist blending live instruments with jungle beats.
5. DJ Hype – Renowned jungle DJ and producer famous for his technical skills.

Notable Tracks

1. « Inner City Life » – Goldie
2. « Horizons » – LTJ Bukem
3. « Original Nuttah » – Shy FX
4. « Brown Paper Bag » – Roni Size
5. « Super Sharp Shooter » – DJ Hype

Events and Festivals

Jungle Fever (Various locations): Dedicated jungle music events worldwide

Hospitality (UK): Long-running drum and bass and jungle club night and events.

Outlook Festival (Croatia): Celebrates bass music including jungle and dubstep.

Let It Roll (Czech Republic): Europe’s biggest drum and bass festival featuring jungle.

Sun and Bass (Italy): Known for bass-heavy electronic music, including jungle.