Robotic funk meets deep bass in a futuristic groove. 122–143 BPM.
Electro Dub is a genre that emerged in the early 1980s in the USA, combining the rhythmic elements of electro with the spacious, echo-laden production of dub. It features drum machines, synthesizers, and vocoders, with tempos ranging from 122 to 143 BPM. The genre is known for its futuristic, robotic feel and deep, resonant basslines.
The defining artists of Electro Dub — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Electro Dub.
Electro Dub is characterized by its robotic, syncopated drum machine patterns, deep sub-bass lines, and the use of vocoders for processed vocals. The rhythm is typically steady and driving, with a strong emphasis on the kick drum and snare. Synthesizers create melodic hooks and atmospheric pads, while dub effects like echo and reverb add depth and space.
The overall sound is futuristic and hypnotic, with a dark, moody undertone. Tracks often feature breakdowns and build-ups, with elements dropping in and out to create tension. The bass is particularly prominent, often using sine waves or filtered square waves to produce a rumbling, tactile low end.
Electro Dub originated in the USA around 1982, emerging from the intersection of electro funk and Jamaican dub techniques. Producers like Arthur Baker and John Robie experimented with drum machines and synthesizers, adding dub-style effects such as reverb and delay to create a spacious, otherworldly sound.
Throughout the 1980s, Electro Dub evolved as artists incorporated vocoders and more complex sequencing. It influenced the development of Miami bass and later genres like techno and house. The genre remained underground but maintained a cult following, especially in dance clubs and radio shows.
Culturally, Electro Dub reflected the futuristic optimism of the early computer age, with lyrics often exploring themes of technology and alienation. It was a staple of the emerging hip-hop and dance scenes, providing a bridge between funk, disco, and electronic music.
How Electro Dub is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
To produce Electro Dub, start with a drum machine pattern around 130 BPM. Use a 4/4 kick on the beat, with a snare or clap on 2 and 4. Add hi-hats with swing to create a shuffling feel. Layer a Roland TR-808 or similar drum machine for classic sounds.
For bass, use a synthesizer with a low-pass filter, playing simple, repetitive patterns that lock with the kick. Add a vocoder for vocal lines, processing them with reverb and delay. Use dub effects like spring reverb and tape echo on various elements. Keep the arrangement sparse, allowing space for each sound to breathe.
Press play here, or open the playlist in Spotify. Best for Late-night driving, Futuristic parties, Coding sessions.
The playlist is hosted on Spotify and plays through its official player. The guide — sound, history, artists and tracks — is put together by Dropo, and every artist and track links to Spotify so you can check it by ear. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. How Dropo is made →