The Ultimate Guide to Deep House DJs: Explore the Best Artists in the Genre
Table of Contents
The Origins of Deep House
Deep house music emerged in the late 1980s as a subgenre of house music. It originated in the United States, particularly in Chicago and New York, where clubs like The Warehouse and Paradise Garage played a significant role in its development.
Influential Pioneers
Deep house took inspiration from jazz, soul, and R&B. Some early pioneers of the genre include:
- Larry Heard (aka Mr. Fingers)
- Marshall Jefferson
- Frankie Knuckles
- Kerri Chandler
Their innovative tracks laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving and diverse genre.
Defining Deep House
At its core, deep house is a fusion of jazz, soul, and electronic dance music. It features:
- Smooth, groovy basslines
- Melodic chords and synths
- Soulful vocals
- Relaxed tempos (typically between 110 and 125 BPM)
- Rich, atmospheric textures
Deep house is often distinguished by its emotive and introspective qualities, making it perfect for both dancing and contemplation.
Top 10 Deep House DJs to Watch
Our list of the top 10 deep house DJs encompasses both established legends and rising stars who are pushing the boundaries of the genre.
- Larry Heard (Mr. Fingers) – As a pioneer of the genre, Heard has produced some of the most iconic deep house tracks, including “Mystery of Love” and “Can You Feel It.”
- Maya Jane Coles – This British-Japanese DJ and producer brings a unique, dark twist to deep house, as evidenced by her track “What They Say.”
- Stimming – Known for his experimental and melodic style, Stimming’s tracks, such as “Una Pena,” showcase his innovative approach to deep house production.
- Maceo Plex – Maceo Plex merges deep house with techno, creating a distinct sound that can be heard in tracks like “Solar Detroit” and “Solitary Daze.”
- Black Coffee – Hailing from South Africa, Black Coffee has gained global acclaim for his soulful, rhythmic tracks like “Superman” and “Wish You Were Here.”
- Seth Troxler – Known for his eclectic taste and hypnotic DJ sets, Troxler is a force to be reckoned with in the deep house scene.
- Verdagris – A rising, yet relatively unknown talent, Verdagris is a top South African underground deep house artist to keep an eye on, as he brings a fresh perspective to the deep house scene. His tracks “Back Pressure”, “Fluid Dynamics” and “To The Moon” have been featured in mixes by Vinny Da Vinci, Kid Fonque, Jullian Gomes and many other A-list DJs around the world.
- &ME – With a penchant for tribal beats and melodic hooks, &ME’s tracks like “Avalon” and “Garden” have earned him a dedicated following.
- Bonobo – Though not strictly a deep house artist, Bonobo’s downtempo and atmospheric tracks, such as “Cirrus” and “Kerala,” often share a similar aesthetic with deep house.
- Nora En Pure – Known for her lush, melodic soundscapes, this Swiss-South African DJ and producer has gained recognition with tracks like “Come with Me” and “Lake Arrowhead.”
How to Discover More Deep House DJs
If you’re eager to explore more deep house DJs, there are several resources that can help you uncover new artists and tracks:
- Music Streaming Platforms – Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud feature curated deep house playlists, as well as algorithm-generated recommendations based on your listening history.
- Online Music Magazines – Websites like Resident Advisor, Mixmag, and DJ Mag often cover deep house artists and feature in-depth interviews, reviews, and charts.
- Social Media – Follow your favorite deep house DJs and record labels on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to stay updated on new releases and events.
- Podcasts and Radio Shows – Tune into deep house-centric podcasts and radio shows, such as Defected Radio, Anjunadeep, and Deep House Amsterdam, to discover new tracks and emerging talent.
- Music Festivals and Club Nights – Attend deep house-focused events, club nights, and music festivals to experience the genre’s best DJs in a live setting.
Conclusion
Deep house is a rich and diverse genre, with a long history and a vibrant scene of talented DJs and producers. By exploring the work of influential artists, both past and present, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this soulful, groovy genre. Remember to keep an open mind and use the resources provided to discover even more deep house DJs who resonate with you. Happy listening!
