Jerkin': the story on HearLore

Jerkin'

Jerking actually came from gang-banging, according to Oktane of Audio Push, serving as a deliberate anti-dance that emerged from the streets of urban California in the late 2000s. While partygoers moved to the rhythm of hip hop, gang members would perform the jerk, a move consisting of moving legs in and out, alongside other specific steps like the reject, dip, and pindrop. This cultural phenomenon originated in the Los Angeles metropolitan area before spreading to the Inland Empire, where groups like New Boyz and Audio Push would later propel the style into the mainstream. The movement was not merely a dance craze but a social signal, distinguishing those inside the street culture from the general party crowd. By the time it broke into the national consciousness in 2009, the style had already established a distinct identity that would eventually find fans along the West Coast, East Coast, and in Europe, particularly in France and Germany, despite facing heavy derision in the Southern United States.

Rhymes And Rhythm

The rap group New Boyz pioneered the jerk rap sound through their hit in Los Angeles entitled You're a Jerk, followed by Audio Push's Teach Me How to Jerk, which cemented the genre's place in hip hop history. As the subculture continued to flourish, several new groups specializing in jerk rap were courted and signed by major labels, including Arista Records, which signed the group the Rej3ctz. Other notable crews in the Southern California area included Action Figure$, U.C.L.A. Jerk Kings, and the LOL Kid$z, all contributing to the scene's growth. The Ranger$ crew not only competed in dance contests, winning numerous awards, but also recorded several songs and were signed to a major label. Cold Flamez and Pink Dollaz also gained recognition during this period, creating a competitive environment where dance crews and artists performed at events in Southern California and beyond. The energy of these performances helped spread the culture to other parts of the world, establishing a legacy that would eventually influence a new generation of artists.

Fashion And Identity

People who jerk usually wear skinny jeans, varying from the unusual to the usual colors and washes, considered a rejection of the baggy pants style that had previously dominated hip hop fashion. Many elements of scene and the raver culture were used in the jerkin' movement, such as bright colored clothing, tight pants, or novelty graphic tees. Additionally, people who engage in jerk dances generally wear hightop or retro shoes, including Chuck Taylor and Nike hightop shoes, which may or may not be multi-colored. This specific aesthetic served as a visual marker of belonging to the subculture, distinguishing participants from other street styles. The fashion choices were not arbitrary but were deeply tied to the movement's identity, creating a cohesive look that matched the energetic and often chaotic nature of the dance itself. The adoption of these styles helped solidify the community's presence and made the movement easily recognizable to outsiders.

What is the origin of Jerkin' music genre?

Jerkin' music genre originated from gang-banging in the streets of urban California in the late 2000s. It emerged as a deliberate anti-dance performed by gang members alongside specific steps like the reject, dip, and pindrop. The movement began in the Los Angeles metropolitan area before spreading to the Inland Empire.

Which groups pioneered the Jerkin' music genre?

The rap group New Boyz pioneered the Jerkin' music genre through their hit You're a Jerk in Los Angeles. Audio Push followed with Teach Me How to Jerk to cement the genre's place in hip hop history. Other notable crews included the Rej3ctz, Action Figure$, U.C.L.A. Jerk Kings, and the LOL Kid$z.

What fashion defines the Jerkin' music genre?

People who jerk usually wear skinny jeans, varying from unusual to usual colors and washes. Participants wear hightop or retro shoes including Chuck Taylor and Nike hightop shoes which may be multi-colored. The aesthetic includes bright colored clothing, tight pants, or novelty graphic tees to distinguish the subculture.

Who revived the Jerkin' music genre in the 2020s?

New York rapper Xaviersobased and his collective 1c34 spearheaded the revival of the Jerkin' music genre in the early 2020s. Californian producer kashpaint further developed the style with faster tempos and melodic synth layers. Xavier's 2022 track Patchmade is widely regarded as a foundational moment in this resurgence.

Where did the Jerkin' music genre spread internationally?

The Jerkin' music genre spread to the United Kingdom where artists like YT, Len, Fimiguerrero, and Fakemink spearheaded a new UK rap revolution. The movement also found a home in Brooklyn where Xaviersobased performed at Baby's All Right on the 2nd of February 2023. The genre established audiences in Europe including France and Germany.

Jerkin'

Rhymes And Rhythm

Fashion And Identity

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