The Brighton Music Conference (BMC) 2024 once again confirmed its status as the UK’s leading electronic music conference. Held from 22nd to 25th May, this year’s BMC gathered industry veterans, emerging talents, and electronic music enthusiasts in the seaside city of Brighton. The event was marked by workshops, panels, networking sessions, and live performances, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.
BMC 2024 showcased the dynamic nature of the electronic music industry. The conference featured over 200 speakers across 40 panels and workshops, covering topics from music production and sound engineering to digital marketing and mental health in the music industry. Keynote speakers included influential figures sharing their insights to inspire the next generation of music creators.
Ski Oakenfull’s Deconstructs House Classic “Your Love”: The Highlight of BMC 2024
Among many standout moments at BMC 2024, Ski Oakenfull‘s deconstruction was the highlight. Ski Oakenfull, a respected music producer and Head of Education and Curriculum for pointblank Music School, is known for breaking down complex tracks to reveal their composition.
To start, Ski briefly spoke about the history of the track, where in the early 1980s, Jamie Principle began experimenting with electronic music, leading to the creation of “Your Love” around 1984. This track was deeply rooted in the sounds emerging from Chicago’s club scene. Frankie Knuckles, known as the “Godfather of House Music,” moved to Chicago in the late 1970s. He became the resident DJ at The Warehouse, a club where he developed a unique style that blended disco, soul, and electronic music. Although Jamie has written, produced, and created the track, it gained wider recognition and impact when Knuckles began playing it at The Warehouse. The track was officially released in 1986, with Knuckles adding his touch to Principle’s original production.
“Your Love” became a defining track for house music, combining a hypnotic bassline with soulful melodies. Its success helped solidify Chicago as the birthplace of house music and established both Jamie Principle and Frankie Knuckles as genre pioneers. The track’s legacy continues to influence modern electronic music, highlighting the enduring impact of their collaboration.
In his session, Oakenfull guided the audience through the timeless piece. Using Ableton Live, he dissected the track, uncovering the layers and techniques that were used to create the iconic house music sound. This deconstruction provided an educational experience highlighting the elements of the music. Check out our YouTube channel to watch Ski’s famous deconstructions. Ski has made the MIDI available to download for free so you can try this yourself at home! Download here.
Oakenfull’s session received enthusiastic applause, leaving the audience with a deeper appreciation of Knuckles and Principle’s work. For many, this was a rare opportunity to gain insights from a master, making it a standout moment for BMC 2024.
Looking Ahead
The Brighton Music Conference 2024 successfully connected the past, present, and future of electronic music. It offered a platform for learning, networking, and celebrating the art form in all its diversity. As the conference grows in scope and influence, it remains a key event for anyone involved in the electronic music scene.
With its engaging atmosphere and commitment to fostering innovation, BMC 2024 has set a high standard for future conferences. Attendees left inspired and equipped with new knowledge, looking forward to what the next year will bring. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to electronic music, the Brighton Music Conference is an event not to be missed.
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