The genre emerged out of an urban subculture in the early 1970s. Discos had been popular in the community for quite some years. The goal was to have pre-recorded music that people could dance to. DJs were the driving creative force behind disco music. Turntables, PA systems, and microphones were essentials for a disco party.
One of the reasons why the disco music gained increased popularity was the free-form dancing as well as the loud, overwhelming sound from the live performers. Disco is a bold mix of soul and funk. It prompted \roller skating jams and was warmly invited not just as dance music, but at cookouts, recitals and other family functions.