inspired by the underground house scene in the 90s, Basement Records and Basement Sessions became renowned for their cutting-edge mix of soulful vocals, deep basslines, and infectious beats. Here are 20 underground house records from the 90s that describe the house scene in New York and London.
Masters At Work – “The Ha Dance”
This track by Kenny “Dope” Gonzalez and Louie Vega of Masters At Work features a classic house beat and a catchy vocal sample. With its jazzy sound and Latin percussion, it became an instant club classic and a favorite at New York’s Sound Factory.
Kerri Chandler – “Atmosphere”
Known as the “King of House Music,” Kerri Chandler’s “Atmosphere” is a deep and soulful track with lush chord progressions and a hypnotic bassline. It’s a perfect example of the “deep house” genre that became popular in the underground club scene in London.
Lil Louis – “French Kiss”
Considered one of the most iconic tracks in house music history, Lil Louis’ “French Kiss” features a seductive vocal sample and a pulsing synth bassline that became instantly recognizable. It was a staple at clubs like New York’s Paradise Garage and London’s Ministry of Sound.
Armand Van Helden – “The Funk Phenomena”
Armand Van Helden’s “The Funk Phenomena” is a high-energy track with a funky bassline and samples from James Brown and Public Enemy. It became a hit in both New York and London and solidified Van Helden’s status as a leading figure in the house music scene.
Todd Terry – “Jumpin'”
With its infectious beat and catchy vocal sample, Todd Terry’s “Jumpin'” was a crowd favorite at New York’s Tunnel and London’s Ministry of Sound. Terry’s signature “hard house” style influenced many other producers in the scene.
DJ Sneak – “You Can’t Hide From Your Bud”
DJ Sneak’s “You Can’t Hide From Your Bud” is a funky and playful track with a catchy vocal sample and a deep bassline. It became a staple at Chicago’s Warehouse club and was later popularized in the UK by DJs like Sasha and John Digweed.
DJ Pierre – “Muzik Set You Free”
DJ Pierre’s “Muzik Set You Free” features a sample from First Choice’s “Let No Man Put Asunder” and a driving house beat. It was a favorite at New York’s Club Shelter and helped define the “acid house” genre.
Robert Owens – “I’ll Be Your Friend”
With its soulful vocals and uplifting lyrics, Robert Owens’ “I’ll Be Your Friend” became an anthem of the house music scene in the 90s. It was a staple at clubs like New York’s Palladium and London’s Ministry of Sound.
Frankie Knuckles – “Tears
As one of the pioneers of house music, Frankie Knuckles’ “Tears” is a classic track with a soulful vocal performance by Robert Owens. It became an instant hit at Chicago’s Warehouse and New York’s Sound Factory.
Ten City – “That’s The Way Love Is”
Ten City’s “That’s The Way Love Is” features a powerful vocal performance by Byron Stingily and a catchy piano riff. It became a club favorite in both New York and London and helped define the “garage house” sound.