skratch

Skratch refers to a specific type of musical technique and culture primarily associated with hip-hop and turntablism. It involves manipulating a turntable and a record player not to play music in the traditional sense, but as a musical instrument itself. This manipulation is achieved by physically moving the record back and forth under the stylus, creating percussive sounds, rhythmic patterns, and unique sonic textures.

The origins of skratch can be traced back to the late 1970s and early 1980s with pioneering DJs like Grand Wizard Theodore and Grandmaster Flash. They discovered that by moving records while they were playing, they could generate a variety of sounds. This technique evolved rapidly, becoming a cornerstone of early hip-hop music, providing a rhythmic and melodic foundation for MCs.

Beyond its technical aspects, skratch is deeply embedded in the culture of turntablism. DJs who specialize in skratch are often referred to as "scratch DJs" and compete in battles where they showcase their skills. These competitions, such as the annual DMC World DJ Championships, have played a significant role in advancing the art form and pushing its creative boundaries. Skratch involves a wide range of techniques, including forward and backward scratching, flares, crabs, and orbits, each producing distinct sonic effects. The development of specialized DJ equipment, like battle-ready turntables and mixers, has further facilitated the evolution of skratch.