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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Nottingham chapter.

Today’s music scene is surprising in many ways, focusing heavily on sampling and electronic dance music. But what led to this resurgence? While there is no definitive answer, there are a few ideas worth exploring.

One reason for the resurgence of sampling is due to the easy access of music. With the rise of digital streaming services like Spotify and YouTube, it is easier than ever to discover new music and sample it for use in a new composition. Musicians can access vast libraries of music from around the world with just a few clicks, providing a wealth of material to draw from. However, with this ease of access comes the issue of copyright infringement. Several high-profile lawsuits have been filed against musicians for unauthorized use of samples in recent years. As a result, many musicians are now more cautious when it comes to sampling and are seeking legal clearance before incorporating a sample into their music.

Another factor contributing to the resurgence of sampling is nostalgia. The use of samples from older songs can evoke a sense of nostalgia and familiarity in listeners, making the new composition more relatable and memorable. This has been demonstrated in recent years with the popularity of genres like rap and lo-fi hip-hop, which heavily rely on samples from older music.

When it comes to electronic dance music, there are several reasons why it has experienced a resurgence in recent years. One of the main factors is the genre’s ability to evolve and adapt to new trends. Dance music has always been about pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds. This has allowed it to stay relevant and remain a popular genre among music fans.

The rise of social media has also played a significant role in the resurgence of dance music. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have made it easier for people to discover new music and share it with others. This has created a buzz around certain tracks and artists, which has helped to boost their popularity.

Finally, the COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in the resurgence of dance music. With many people stuck at home, music has become a way to escape and connect with others. Dance music in particular became increasingly popular as a way to stay active and upbeat during this difficult time.

In conclusion, the resurgence of sampling and electronic dance music can be related to many factors, including the ease of access to music, the nostalgia factor, the genre’s ability to adapt, the rise of social media, and the COVID-19 pandemic. With their creative approaches to follow trends in popular music, they’re able to withstand the test of time and stand out amongst the large amounts of music released each day.

Fidji Gomis-Mendy

Nottingham '24

3rd Year International Media and Communication Studies student at the University of Nottingham.