What is chicago freestyle?

Chicago freestyle is a distinctive subgenre of freestyle music that emerged in the mid-1980s in Chicago. It is characterized by its faster tempo, often around 130-140 bpm, and more aggressive, energetic sound compared to its New York counterpart. Key elements include heavy use of synthesizers, particularly Yamaha DX7 and Roland Juno-106, often creating layered, melodic textures. Chicago freestyle also commonly incorporates Latin percussion and influences from house music, which was simultaneously developing in the city.

Important artists associated with Chicago freestyle include <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Denise%20Lopez">Denise Lopez</a>, <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Liz%20Torres">Liz Torres</a>, and <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Jesse%20Saunders">Jesse Saunders</a>, though Saunders is more widely known as a pioneering house music producer. Tracks like "Can't Get Enough" by Liz Torres and "On the Upside" by Denise Lopez are considered seminal examples of the genre. The lyrical themes often revolved around love, relationships, and overcoming hardship. The sound was a significant influence on the development of later electronic dance music genres.