What is DUB? A Beginner’s Guide to Dub Music!
If you listen to Western music even a little, you’ve probably heard the terms dubstep or dubwise.
Still, many people may not be quite sure what “dub” actually means.
Dub is a genre that originated in Jamaica; put simply, it refers to remixes.
In this piece, I’ll focus on three genres: reggae dub, where it originated, and the effect-heavy styles of dubwise and dubstep.
I also explain individual tracks, so if you’re not very familiar with EDM, be sure to read to the end.
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What Is DUB? A Beginner’s Guide to Dub Music! (1–10)
Supersonic (My Existence)Skrillex, Noisia, josh pan & Dylan Brady
Here, I’d like to introduce a catchy DUB track that’s widely known.
It’s “Supersonic (My Existence).” This collaboration features the globally renowned Skrillex, the electronic trio Noisia, singer Dylan Brady, and producer josh pan, and it was released in 2022.
Rather than classic, straight-ahead dubstep, it leans a bit deeper and more offbeat, making it incredibly engaging to listen to.
HelloOMFG
OMFG is a producer active mainly on social media like YouTube.
The name stands for Oh My Fucking God.
He’s an artist skilled in dubstep and has earned worldwide recognition.
Among his tracks, the one I especially recommend is Hello.
This song is frequently used on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, so many of you have probably heard it before.
Bangarang feat. SirahSkrillex
This work is marked by energetic beats and a glitchy bassline.
Released by American artist Skrillex in December 2011, it’s packed with the allure of dubstep.
Its overwhelming sound, which raises the listener’s adrenaline, feels as if it was crafted with the dance floor in mind.
There’s a reference to the Lost Boys from the film Hook, carrying a message of “living in the moment.” It earned widespread acclaim worldwide, including 3× Platinum certification in the United States.
Even those unfamiliar with EDM will likely find themselves drawn into its captivating world.
What Is Dub? A Beginner’s Guide to Dub Music! (11–20)
Womp PortalGanja White Night x Subtronics
The electric duo Ganja White Night, hugely supported within the scene.
Known for their dubstep-centered sound, they’ve dropped numerous hit tunes to date.
Their collaborative track with Philadelphia-based dubstep producer Subtronics is Womp Portal.
It’s a slower-tempo dubstep track, but thanks to its many sections, it’s crafted with a sharp, dynamic feel.
Freedom ChantMad Professor
If you want to explore the roots of UK reggae, I highly recommend the dub track “Freedom Chant.” This song is by Mad Professor, a godlike figure in UK reggae.
It’s one of the tracks on his highly acclaimed classic “Dub Me Crazy!!,” and it captures a very deep UK reggae sound.
There’s a dramatic key change partway through that shares common ground with today’s modern deep dub.
If you’re looking for authentic UK reggae, definitely give it a listen.
I Can’t StopFlux Pavilion
The signature work by UK-born Flux Pavilion has had a major impact on the dubstep scene.
Released in October 2010, it’s characterized by its energetic drops and melodies.
Skillful use of sampling and a sound that harmonizes with heavy beats spark curiosity about dance music.
Its influence is immeasurable—among other things, it was sampled on Jay-Z and Kanye’s collaborative album.
It has become an essential track in festival and event setlists, continuing to captivate audiences around the world.
It’s a perfect song for anyone who wants to feel the power of music.
BonfireKnife Party
The Australian electronic music duo Knife Party carry a strong lineage of dub that originated in Jamaica.
This track appears on their EP “Rage Valley,” released in May 2012, and is characterized by an energetic sound that feels like it’s unleashing restrained power.
The lyrics, delivered in Jamaican Patois, may seem illogical at first glance, but they can also be interpreted as expressing a spirit of freedom and rebellion.
Widely embraced—featured, for instance, on the WWE 2K15 soundtrack—this track is a favorite not only among dance music fans but also as an ideal motivator during workouts.