The distinct "boom" of the 808 kick drum used commonly in bass music helped distinguish this Southern-born genre from the sounds of other regions. Technically, bass music is a direct offspring of electro--specifically West Coast electro. Lyrically, the music is topped with party-based rhymes that frequently contain raunchy and sometimes misogynistic wordplay. 2 Live Crew's Move Somethin' was the first nationally recognized effort from this genre, as well as the first rap album to receive a "parental advisory" warning sticker. DJ Magic Mike furthered the genre, and bass music eventually helped spawn the careers of the Quad City DJs and Lil Jon, who attained widespread commercial success. Bass music also is called "booty bass" and "Miami bass."

Notable artists: MC Shy D, Uncle Al, Rodney O & Joe Cooley, Sir Mix-A-Lot, Tag Team