Turntables become instruments in a rhythmic, percussive whirlwind. 95–140 BPM.
Scratch is a music genre and DJ technique that emerged in the mid-1970s in the Bronx, New York. It involves manipulating vinyl records on a turntable to produce rhythmic, percussive sounds, often combined with hip-hop beats. The genre emphasizes the turntable as a musical instrument, with DJs creating complex patterns by moving the record back and forth.
The defining artists of Scratch — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Scratch.
Scratch music is characterized by its percussive, rhythmic nature. The sound is created by moving a vinyl record back and forth under a stylus, producing a variety of tones and noises. Common scratch sounds include the 'baby scratch' (a simple back-and-forth), 'chirp' (a short, sharp sound), and 'transform' (a stuttering effect).
The rhythm of scratch music is often syncopated and complex, with DJs using the turntable as a drum machine. The tempo typically ranges from 95 to 140 BPM, making it suitable for hip-hop and dance music. The overall feel is energetic and improvisational, with a focus on technical skill and creativity.
Scratch originated in the mid-1970s in the Bronx, New York, as part of the early hip-hop movement. DJs like Grandmaster Flash and Kool Herc pioneered the technique of manipulating vinyl records to create new sounds, extending breaks and adding rhythmic accents.
Over time, scratching evolved from a simple technique into a complex art form. DJs developed various scratch patterns, such as the baby scratch, chirp, and crab scratch, each with distinct rhythmic qualities. The genre gained mainstream attention in the 1980s and 1990s through turntablism competitions and albums.
Culturally, scratch is deeply rooted in hip-hop and DJ culture. It represents the innovation of using existing technology in new ways, and it has influenced electronic music, breakbeat, and beyond. Scratch battles and DJ crews continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with turntables.
How Scratch is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
When producing scratch music, focus on a solid drum pattern that leaves space for the scratches. A typical hip-hop beat with a kick on the 1 and 3, snare on the 2 and 4, and hi-hats on the offbeats works well. The BPM should be between 95 and 140, with a swing feel to match the DJ's scratches.
Samples are often taken from other records, especially drum breaks and vocal snippets. The key is to create a loop that the DJ can scratch over. Use a turntable or a digital DJ controller to record scratch sounds, then chop and arrange them in your DAW. Effects like reverb and delay can add depth, but keep the scratches dry to preserve clarity.
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