Description
The origin of all phonk subgenres, OG Phonk is the foundational sound rooted in the Memphis rap scene of the '90s. It's characterized by its raw, lo-fi aesthetic and a heavy reliance on sampling techniques.
Where did it come from?
The foundation of Phonk was laid in Memphis during the early 1990s. DJ Spanish Fly pioneered the lo-fi production style using an SP-1200 sampler and budget recording equipment, creating the genre’s signature “dirty” sound. DJ Squeeky further developed this style with his "Squeeky Bass" technique, making heavy use of the Roland TR-808 drum machine. Three 6 Mafia, formed in the early 1990s, became instrumental in shaping the sound, with early tapes like "Smoked Out Loced Out" (1994) and "Underground Vol. 1" establishing sampling and production techniques. DJ Screw in Houston introduced the "chopped and screwed" technique, slowing down and pitch-shifting tracks, which became an influential feature of Phonk. Early Phonk producers later adapted these effects digitally using DAWs like FL Studio.
Defining Features
• Use of Memphis-style trap beats.
• Jazz or soul samples that evoke nostalgia.
• Chopped Memphis acapellas with aggressive or melancholic tones.
• Analog mixing that mimics outdated hardware.
