Early Influences: The 80's

Early Influences: The 80's

Artwork designed by Creature (Tyler Sing)

What is beatbox?

As defined by Wikipedia, "beatboxing, also known as beat boxing or b-boxing, is a form of vocal percussion primarily involving the art of mimicking drum beats using one's mouth, lips, tongue, and voice."

Although beatboxing is non-genre specific, it shares a rich history deeply rooted in hip-hop culture. Giving birth to the original elements (emceeing, turntablism, b-boying and graffiti art), hip-hop was widely considered a sub-cultural movement in the early 1970's.

Beatboxing began capturing national interest and started gaining popularity within the world of hip-hop in the early 80's. During this time, both amateur and professional artists alike were dabbling in the art form; however, with regards to its connected history in hip-hop culture, the mimicry of percussive sounds was just considered a novelty.

It wasn't until Doug E. Fresh, self-proclaimed as the first "human beatbox", released the song "La Di Da Di" and mesmerized crowds with his trademark sound the "click roll" that beatboxing transcended its novelty status and permeated into the realm of hip-hop musicianship.

Doug E. Fresh

The "Clicks" aka the modern "Click Roll"

Sound: 0:52
Video courtesy of realhiphop3000

Today, the title of "Human Beatbox" is widely accepted as a common handle for anyone who practices and participates in vocal percussion; however, during the 80's there were disputes as to who held the title as the art form's first, or original.

Even though Doug E. Fresh had claimed the title for himself, there was another beatboxer around that time who was gaining a lot attention for his percussive talents. Buff Love (aka Darren Robinson) of the hip-hop group called The Fat Boys, was also an early influence who served as a pioneer to the history of beatbox.

Like that of his contemporary, Doug E. Fresh, Love incorporated vocal percussion into his performances. Despite their differences competing for beatbox supremacy, the contributions of both individuals will forever be remembered as key factors which helped shape what beatbox is today.

Buff Love - The Fat Boys

"The Human Beatbox"

Video courtesy of LONGLIVEROCKTHEWHO