Electro Swing — a genre that blends vintage jazz and swing with modern electronic rhythms. Retro vibes meet the dancefloor.
Electro Swing is a music genre that combines jazz and swing from the 1920s–40s with elements of modern electronic music. It merges the energy of vintage big bands with the powerful beats of house, hip-hop, and downtempo, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and relevant for 21st-century dance floors.
History
-
In the early 2000s, European DJs and producers began experimenting with old jazz samples in electronic music.
-
The first Electro Swing albums appeared in France, the UK, and Austria.
-
One of the pioneers is Parov Stelar, whose tracks “Catgroove” and “Booty Swing” set the tone for the genre.
Sound Features
-
Samples: vintage jazz and swing recordings (trumpets, saxophone, big bands).
-
Electronics: house or hip-hop beats, basslines, synthesizers.
-
Vocals: often spoken word or cabaret/jazz-inspired singing.
-
Atmosphere: a blend of Great Gatsby-era luxury and modern club energy.
Famous Artists
-
Parov Stelar — the “father” of Electro Swing, who popularized the style in Europe.
-
Caravan Palace — a French group blending jazz and electronic music.
-
Swingrowers, Tape Five, Jamie Berry — musicians who contributed to the genre’s growth.
-
Many DJs include Electro Swing in their festival sets and themed parties.
Popularity and Influence
-
Electro Swing became the foundation for “retro-futurism” parties and modern takes on dances like the lindy hop.
-
The genre is widely used in movies, advertising, and video games thanks to its energy and vintage charm.
-
Today, Electro Swing continues to evolve, uniting generations — from jazz lovers to EDM fans.
Electro Swing is a bridge between past and future — music that takes us back to the atmosphere of jazz clubs of the last century, while making us dance here and now.
