In the late 1980s, a new sound emerged from Chicago’s underground, reshaping electronic music forever. Acid house, driven by the squelching, hypnotic tones of the Roland TB-303 bass synthesizer, became a defining movement. Phuture’s ‘Acid Tracks,’ crafted by DJ Pierre and Spanky, introduced this raw, experimental style, marking the birth of acid house.
The story of how acid house was discovered is particularly interesting. The TB-303 was originally designed to mimic a bass guitar, but when DJ Pierre twisted its knobs in unconventional ways, it generated an otherworldly effect. The track was first played by DJ Ron Hardy at Chicago’s Music Box, and after four plays in one night, initial confusion gave way to a dancefloor revelation.
The genre quickly spread across the Atlantic, fueling the UK’s ‘Second Summer of Love’ in 1988. Clubs like Shoom in London became hubs for acid house, with DJs spinning mind-bending sets to euphoric crowds. It was a cultural shift, emphasizing unity, DIY creativity, and the freedom of expression.
Fast forward to today, acid house continues to influence modern artists, including Phoenix-based DJ and producer JBoog. His latest track, ‘I Like,’ dropping on Hustletrax, channels that same spirit. Unlike his tech-house cover of Cardi B’s ‘I Like It,’ this version leans into raw warehouse vibes, blending acid house with hints of techno at 130 BPM.
Known for previous releases like ‘Daddy’ and ‘Sneakers’ on Hood Politics, JBoog is carving his own lane in the electronic world.
Phoenix’s acid house scene is growing, with event curators like Between2Clouds pushing underground dance culture forward. Internationally, festivals such as Movement, Desert Hearts, and Sonus Croatia keep the acid house spirit alive. For those looking to dive deeper, artists like DJ Pierre, Laurent Garnier, TIN MAN, and Helena Hauff serve as sonic guides to this genre’s past and future.
JBoog’s ‘I Like’ stands as both a tribute and a fresh take on a timeless genre. Whether in a warehouse or a festival stage, acid house remains a force that continues to inspire.