Hear funk instrumental cover track `Rockit` by Herbie Hancock

Play: Rockit

The classic Herbie Hancock track that invented Hip Hop!

"Rockit" is a groundbreaking instrumental track by Herbie Hancock, released in 1983 on his album "Future Shock." Here's a musical analysis

1. Electronic Influence: "Rockit" is notable for its innovative use of electronic instruments and production techniques. The track prominently features synthesizers, drum machines, and turntablism, creating a futuristic and avant-garde sound that was ahead of its time. The electronic elements give the song a gritty and industrial edge, contributing to its distinctive aesthetic.

2. Rhythmic Groove: The song is driven by a powerful and infectious groove, characterized by its driving beat and syncopated rhythms. The rhythm section, consisting of drum machines and sampled percussion, provides a relentless and propulsive pulse that drives the song forward. The rhythmic groove of "Rockit" is highly danceable and has made it a popular track in hip-hop and electronic music circles.

3. Scratching and Turntablism: "Rockit" features prominent scratching and turntablism performed by Grand Mixer D.ST, a pioneering DJ known for his innovative techniques. The scratching adds a dynamic and textural element to the song, enhancing its urban and streetwise vibe. The turntablism serves as both a rhythmic and melodic element, contributing to the song's overall energy and intensity.

4. Sampling: "Rockit" incorporates samples from various sources, including vocal snippets, street sounds, and electronic effects. These samples are manipulated and processed using electronic production techniques, creating a collage-like texture that adds depth and complexity to the song. The use of sampling in "Rockit" was groundbreaking at the time and helped to popularize the technique in mainstream music.

5. Instrumentation: In addition to electronic instruments and samples, "Rockit" also features traditional instruments such as bass guitar and trumpet, both played by Herbie Hancock himself. These live instruments add warmth and humanity to the song, balancing out the cold and mechanical sounds of the electronic elements.

6. Visual Aesthetic: The music video for "Rockit" is as iconic as the song itself, featuring surreal and abstract imagery created by director Godley & Creme. The video's striking visuals, which include robotic dancers, floating heads, and distorted perspectives, complement the song's futuristic and otherworldly vibe, making it a memorable and influential piece of visual art.

Overall, "Rockit" is a groundbreaking and influential track that helped to redefine the boundaries of jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music. Its innovative use of electronic instruments, sampling, and turntablism, combined with its infectious groove and striking visuals, have solidified its place as a classic in the history of popular music.