Break (music)

In music, a "break" refers to an instrumental or percussion section during a song when most or all of the other instruments stop playing for a short period. This usually emphasizes rhythm and can create anticipation or provide a brief respite before a re-entry of the main theme or vocal.

Breaks are a common feature in genres such as funk, soul, hip hop, jazz, and rock music. They often highlight the drummer's skills or introduce a contrasting rhythmic pattern. The purpose of a break can vary, including:

• Emphasis: Drawing attention to a specific part of the song or a particular instrument.
• Transition: Serving as a bridge between different sections of the song.
• Dance Element: Providing a specific rhythmic groove that encourages dancing.
• Improvisation: Allowing for instrumental solos or improvisational passages.

The length and complexity of a break can vary greatly, from a simple two-beat silence to an extended and intricate instrumental solo. The context within the song dictates the characteristics of the break. In hip hop, breaks from older recordings (often referred to as "breakbeats") are frequently sampled and looped to form the foundation for new tracks.