UNESCO Awards Cultural Heritage Status to Los Angeles Dubstep Scene

Unesco has awarded LA dubstep scene Cultural Heritage status.

The Los Angeles dubstep scene has received UNESCO Awards Cultural Heritage status. After gaining recognition from the awarding organization, the Los Angeles dubstep scene has once again taken a step forward in visibility. It has joined at the same a motley list of things added to the cultural heritage status – Marijuana, Erewhon, cosmetic surgery, Acai bowls, and the California dance of shuffling.

Even the LA mayor has made comments acknowledging the profound impact of this genre of music. Boasting as one of the world’s most vibrant music scenes, Los Angeles has certainly made a distinct imprint on music with concerts, venues, and festivals. Undoubtedly, this has marked yet another chapter in the growth and popularity of Dubstep.

The featured artists that are referenced in this announcement have come without surprise. Artists such as Skrillex, Flux Pavilion, Knife Party, Excision, Modestep, and Deadmau5 have been alluded to for their work in the landscape. While many artists have contributed to the genre, these musicians have had their individual seismic impacts on the scene. 

Skrillex, especially, has infused dubstep music into the mainstream. He has infused the genre’s distinct qualities into other genres as well. Coachella 2023 featured an earth-shattering performance by both Fred Again.. and Skrillex, showcasing why dubstep can be a headline act.

Of course, visual elements have always accompanied the sound of dubstep. This tends to be an equally important part of the Los Angeles dubstep scene. DJ Excision, as part of the honor of the Cultural Heritage, has been recognized for his famous Shrek visuals.
As described, this is the Los Angeles Dubstep scene. Many elements, artists, music, venues, and visuals, have played their role in gaining traction for this style of entertainment. Surely, the genre has set itself up for continual growth.

Jack Newman

Like many others, I often dive into a variety of music genres and explore, as best I can, what resonates while I listen. For me, EDM is a dense subset of music with unique artistry and textured sounds – a facet of melody and tune that I will always investigate.

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