The Influence of Skateboarding on Music

There’s something about the sound of wheels on concrete and the beat of a killer track that just goes together. Skateboarding and music have always been intertwined, each influencing the other in a way that’s created a unique, vibrant culture. Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping soundtracks of classic skate videos or the chill vibes at a skatepark, music is an essential part of the skateboarding experience. Let’s dive into how skateboarding has influenced music over the years, and why this connection matters for skaters today, especially those of us here in the Southwestern U.S.!

The Origins of Skateboarding and Music

The Birth of Skateboarding Culture

Skateboarding has come a long way since its early days in the 1950s and 60s, when surfers in California were looking for a way to ride waves on land. They called it “sidewalk surfing,” and it wasn’t long before skateboarding became its own thing, separate from surfing. By the 1970s, skateboarding was growing rapidly, and with it, a unique culture that mixed rebellion, creativity, and a desire to push boundaries.

Early Music Influences

In those early days, skateboarding’s connection to music started with surf rock. Bands like The Beach Boys and Dick Dale provided the soundtrack for the original skaters. As skateboarding evolved, so did its musical influences. By the late 70s and early 80s, punk rock had crashed onto the scene, bringing a new energy that fit perfectly with the raw, DIY spirit of skateboarding.

Punk Rock and Skateboarding

How Punk Rock Became the Soundtrack of Skateboarding

Skateboarding and punk rock were a natural fit. Both represented a rejection of the mainstream, a desire to do things differently, and a willingness to take risks. Skaters loved the fast-paced, aggressive sound of punk music, and punk bands loved the rebellious spirit of skateboarding.

I’ll never forget the first time I heard Black Flag while watching a skate video. The raw energy of the music matched the intensity of the tricks, and it got me hyped to go out and skate. It wasn’t just about the music; it was about a mindset, a way of life that was all about pushing limits and breaking the rules.

Iconic Bands and Influence

Some of the most iconic punk bands became closely associated with skateboarding. Bands like Black Flag, The Misfits, and Dead Kennedys provided the soundtrack for countless skate sessions and videos. Their music captured the anger, frustration, and energy that skaters felt, making them the perfect companions for a day at the skatepark.

These bands didn’t just provide the soundtrack; they influenced the style and attitude of skateboarding. From the way skaters dressed to the tricks they attempted, punk rock left its mark on skateboarding culture.

Hip-Hop and Skateboarding

The Rise of Hip-Hop in Skate Culture

While punk rock was dominating the skate scene in the 80s, hip-hop was emerging as a powerful cultural force. By the 90s, hip-hop and skateboarding started to cross paths, leading to a new era of skate culture. Hip-hop’s beats, rhythms, and lyrical flows brought a fresh vibe to skateboarding, and skaters began to embrace the genre.

Key Artists and Collaborations

Artists like A Tribe Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, and Beastie Boys became favorites among skaters. Their music featured in skate videos and at skateparks, creating a fusion of cultures that felt natural. Hip-hop’s emphasis on individuality, style, and self-expression resonated with skaters, who saw skateboarding as a way to express themselves.

One of my favorite things to do when skating is to throw on some Wu-Tang and just vibe with the music. There’s something about the rhythm that makes skating feel even more fluid and creative. It’s no wonder so many skaters connect with hip-hop.

The Role of Skate Videos

Skate videos played a crucial role in popularizing hip-hop within the skateboarding community. Videos like “Mouse” by Girl Skateboards featured tracks from iconic hip-hop artists, introducing skaters to new music and creating a cultural crossover. These videos didn’t just showcase skateboarding skills; they also set the tone and vibe of skate culture, with music being a key component.

Alternative and Indie Music

The Evolution of Skateboarding Music

As skateboarding continued to grow, so did the variety of music that influenced the scene. In the late 90s and early 2000s, alternative and indie music began to play a bigger role in skateboarding culture. Bands like Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr., and later, artists like MGMT and Vampire Weekend, became favorites in the skateboarding community.

Influential Bands

These bands brought a different sound to skateboarding, one that was more experimental and diverse. Their music featured in skate videos and at skate events, helping to shape the evolving identity of skateboarding. This shift showed that skateboarding wasn’t confined to one type of music; it was about a mindset and an attitude, and as long as the music reflected that, it had a place in skate culture.

Skateboarding’s Influence on Music Festivals

Skate culture also began to influence music festivals, leading to events like the Vans Warped Tour, which combined live music with skateboarding demos. Festivals started to cater more to skaters, featuring skate-friendly environments and even incorporating skate parks into their setups. This fusion of music and skateboarding created a unique experience that resonated with fans of both scenes.

Skateboarding’s Impact on Musicians and Music Videos

Musicians Who Skate

It’s not just that skaters love music—many musicians are also skaters! Artists like Lil Wayne, Tyler, the Creator, and Halsey have all been spotted skating, and they often incorporate elements of skate culture into their music and personal style. This crossover between music and skateboarding helps to strengthen the bond between the two cultures.

Skateboarding in Music Videos

Skateboarding has made its way into numerous music videos, helping to bring the sport into the mainstream. Iconic videos like Avril Lavigne’s “Sk8er Boi” or Pharrell’s “Happy” feature skateboarding scenes that celebrate the sport’s energy and spirit. These videos not only entertain but also introduce skateboarding to new audiences.

Crossover Between Skate Brands and Music

The collaboration between skate brands and musicians has become more common, with brands like Thrasher, Vans, and Supreme working with artists to create limited edition merch and special events. These collaborations highlight the close relationship between music and skateboarding and show how the two cultures continue to inspire each other.

How Music Influences Your Skate Style

Finding Your Skate Soundtrack

Every skater has their go-to playlist—the tracks that get them pumped to skate. Music can set the tone for your session, whether it’s high-energy punk to get you hyped or chill hip-hop to keep things smooth. Finding your skate soundtrack is about discovering what moves you and gets you in the zone.

Music’s Role in Setting the Tone

Different genres can change the way you skate. Punk rock might make you want to hit the park hard and fast, while a hip-hop beat might inspire you to work on your style and flow. The beauty of skateboarding is that it’s all about personal expression, and music is a big part of that. Experiment with different tracks and see how they influence your skating.

Skateboarding and music are more than just hobbies—they’re lifestyles. The connection between the two has shaped skate culture and influenced the music we listen to, the clothes we wear, and the way we express ourselves. Whether you’re hitting the park with a punk rock anthem or cruising the streets to a hip-hop beat, remember that skateboarding and music are about freedom, creativity, and pushing boundaries.

So, what’s your skate soundtrack? Share your favorite skate tracks with me and let’s keep the conversation going. Tag me in your posts, and let’s celebrate the incredible connection between skateboarding and music. Keep shredding and keep the music loud! 🎵🛹