Dive into shimmering synths and euphoric drops that define a generation. 130–160 BPM.
Future Bass is a genre of electronic dance music that emerged in the USA around 2012. It is characterized by melodic, euphoric chord progressions, heavy basslines, and chopped vocal samples, often with a BPM between 130 and 160.
The defining artists of Future Bass — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Future Bass.
Future Bass is defined by its lush, shimmering synth chords, often with a sawtooth or square wave texture. The bass is deep and subby, while the drums are typically trap-influenced with crisp hi-hats and punchy kicks. Vocals are frequently pitched up and chopped, creating a glitchy, emotional feel.
Rhythmically, tracks range from 130 to 160 BPM, with a half-time feel that emphasizes the drop. The structure often builds tension through filtered synths and risers, culminating in a euphoric, bass-heavy chorus. Melodies are simple but catchy, focusing on major chord progressions that evoke happiness or melancholy.
Future Bass originated in the USA around 2012, evolving from earlier electronic genres like UK garage, dubstep, and trap. Producers like Flume, Rustie, and Cashmere Cat pioneered the sound, blending bright synth pads with hip-hop influenced beats.
By the mid-2010s, Future Bass exploded in popularity through artists like The Chainsmokers and Illenium, becoming a staple in festival lineups and pop music. Its emotional, uplifting tone resonated with mainstream audiences, leading to collaborations with pop vocalists.
Culturally, Future Bass represents a shift toward more melodic and accessible electronic music, often associated with themes of nostalgia, love, and euphoria. It continues to evolve, influencing genres like hyperpop and lo-fi.
How Future Bass is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
Start with a chord progression using major 7th or 9th chords played on a sawtooth synth with heavy reverb and sidechain compression. Layer a sub bass (sine wave) under the chords. For drums, use a trap pattern: kick on 1 and 3, snare on 2 and 4, with rapid hi-hats (16th or 32nd notes). Add swing to the hi-hats for a human feel.
Typical samples include vocal chops (pitch-shifted and chopped), risers, and white noise sweeps. The drop often features a supersaw chord stack with a low-pass filter that opens up. Use sidechain compression on the chords and bass to create a pumping effect. Keep the BPM around 140-150 for a balanced energy.
Hand-picked, updated weekly. Best for Driving, Gaming, Workout.
Every playlist on Dropo is hand-picked by real musicians, not algorithm-generated. We listen, we pick, we keep it fresh. About Dropo →