turntablism

Turntablism is the practice of manipulating sounds and music using turntables, a mixer, and related equipment to create live performances. It is a subset of DJ culture that emphasizes technical skill, musical improvisation, and sonic experimentation rather than simple song-to-song blending. Core techniques include scratching, beat juggling, cutting, cueing, and live sampling, often performed in combination to produce rhythmic textures, echoes, and percussive effects.

History and origins: Turntablism developed in the hip hop communities of New York City in the 1970s and 1980s, evolving from basic DJ mixing to more stylized techniques. Scratching is commonly attributed to Grand Wizzard Theodore, who developed it in the mid-1970s. As the practice grew, DJs began performing technical routines and battles, emphasizing originality and showmanship. The genre gained formal recognition through competitions such as the DMC World DJ Championships, founded in 1985.

Equipment and techniques: Traditional turntablism relies on direct-drive turntables (often with vinyl records), a mixer with a responsive crossfader, slipmats, and monitoring equipment. Artists employ backspins, forward scratches, transform scratches, and beat juggling to create new rhythms. In recent decades, digital vinyl systems, time-coded control vinyl, and software-controlled controllers have extended the practice to digital workflows while preserving tactile manipulation.

Legacy and contemporary status: Turntablism remains a core element of hip hop culture and has influenced genres such as breakbeat, electro, and modern beatmaking. Notable turntablists include pioneers and contemporary practitioners who have achieved recognition through battles, releases, and collaborations with producers and musicians.