What is a Loop Roll?

A loop roll is a DJ performance technique where a short loop of a track is repeated while the track continues to move forward in the background. When the loop roll is released, playback jumps ahead to the current position in the song as if the loop had never stopped the track’s progress. This creates a temporary stutter or repeating effect without interrupting the flow of the track.

Loop rolls are typically performed using DJ controllers, CDJs, or DJ software that includes dedicated loop roll buttons. DJs can select different loop lengths, such as 1/2 beat, 1/4 beat, or 1/8 beat, which changes how quickly the audio repeats. Shorter loop rolls create faster and more rhythmic stutter effects.

DJs use loop rolls to add energy and creativity during live performances. The effect can be used during transitions, build-ups, or drops to create tension and rhythmic variation. Because the track continues progressing in the background, loop rolls allow DJs to experiment with loops without losing their place in the song.