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Author: Genx
Changing the Structure of Beats Generated by Udio Using Bandlab
With the latest update to Udio version “1.5”, you can now generate 2-minute and 11-second beats and export stems for drums, bass, and top melodies. Here’s how to leverage this feature to streamline your music production process further.
Changing Composition Using Bandlab’s DAW
You can easily alter the song structure by importing stems generated in Udio into Bandlab’s DAW. Follow these steps:
- Generate a beat in Udio and export stems for each part
- Create a new project in Bandlab
- Import the generated stems into Bandlab
Useful Features in Bandlab
Bandlab offers several handy features to support music production:
- Automatic BPM Detection: It automatically calculates the BPM of imported audio and sets it as the project tempo.
- Audio Splitting: For Mac users, pressing the “S” key allows easy splitting of audio clips.
Freely Changing the Structure
After splitting the audio, you can freely change the composition, such as verses and hooks. For example:
- To extend the intro, copy and lengthen the relevant section
- To repeat the chorus, copy and place the chorus section
- To add a bridge, insert a new section
Using this method, you can flexibly proceed with music production based on the beats generated by Udio. Give it a try!
I have an account on BeatStars. My collaborator has uploaded a beat to their own BeatStars page. Is there a way to display the same beat on my account as well?
I have an account on BeatStars. My collaborator has uploaded a beat to their own BeatStars page. Is there a way to display the same beat on my account as well?
While it’s possible to create a shared playlist to showcase the beat, publishing and selling the same beat on multiple accounts requires uploading it separately to each account. If you choose to do this, consider the following points:
Collaborator’s Consent
Always obtain your collaborator’s permission before sharing the beat.
Proper Crediting
Ensure both accounts appropriately credit the beat’s producer(s) and co-producer(s).
Revenue Sharing Agreement
Establish a clear agreement on how revenue will be split if the beat sells.
Consistent Pricing
To avoid confusion, it’s recommended to set the same price on both accounts.
Uniform License Terms
Ensure the license terms for sale are identical across both accounts.This approach can increase the beat’s exposure and reach more potential buyers. However, maintaining transparency and respecting mutual interests is crucial.
For specific instructions on BeatStars operations, it’s advisable to check the official website or help center. As platform specifications may change, referring to the most up-to-date information is essential.
Udio 1.5 Update: A New Era in Music Production
A revolution is happening in the world of music production tools. Udio has been updated to version 1.5, introducing amazing new features. This update greatly expands the possibilities of music production. Let’s take a look at the main changes.
1. Stem Download Feature
The most notable new feature is stem downloading. Users can now download four individual stems: drums, bass, top melody, and vocals. This is significantly superior compared to the competitor Suno, which can only separate instruments and vocals.
2. Enhanced Remix Function
The Remix function can now be used on tracks longer than 32 seconds. Additionally, users can freely adjust parameters to set the similarity level with the original song. This greatly expands creative possibilities.
3. General Access to Udio-130
Previously, Standard plan users could only generate 32-second clips. With this update, Udio-130 (generating 130-second clips) is now available to all users. This makes it easier to create longer musical pieces.
4. Clarity Editing Function
The newly added Clarity editing function allows for adjustment of sound separation. This makes it possible to intentionally create effects reminiscent of old recordings or, conversely, produce modern, clear sounds.
5. Improved Sound Quality
Overall sound quality has improved, addressing issues like the “crushed snare drum” sound characteristic of previous Udio versions. This allows for more natural and high-quality music production.
6. Generation Quality Experimentation
Lastly, there’s an interesting point regarding Generation Quality settings. The highest “Ultra” setting isn’t always optimal; sometimes “Good” or even lower settings may yield better results. This was discussed on Reddit before version 1.5 and seems to remain true in this update.
Experimenting with combinations of Clarity and Generation Quality settings allows for exploration of various timbres and textures.
Conclusion
The Udio 1.5 update brings new possibilities to the world of music production. With features like stem downloading, enhanced Remix function, longer clip generation, and Clarity editing, it’s packed with attractive features for creators. Combined with improved sound quality, Udio has solidified its position as a music production tool.
How to Create 90s Hip-Hop Sound
The sound of 90s hip-hop continues to captivate many producers and listeners even today. One of its charms is the raw and groovy drum sound. This article will explain the key points for recreating this sound.
(more…)How to Create Variations in Hip-Hop Beats
Let’s explore some key points on how to create variations in hip-hop beats.
Basic Structure of Song Progression
- Intro
- Verse
- Pre-chorus
- Chorus
- Bridge
- Outro
Techniques for Creating Variations
1. Layering
Gradually add instruments:
- Start with drums, then add bass, synths, and samples in order
2. Dropouts
Temporarily remove specific instruments:
- For example, remove drums before the chorus and bring them back in during the chorus
3. Filter Effects
Use low-pass filters to change the brightness of the sound:
- Gradually open the filter during the pre-chorus
4. Rhythm Changes
Alter drum patterns:
- Use a simple pattern for verses and a more complex one for choruses
5. Utilizing Effects
Use reverb and delay to change spatial perception:
- Increase reverb during the bridge to create a sense of expansiveness
6. Using Samples
Introduce new samples to create variation:
- Add an impactful vocal sample during the chorus
Conclusion
By combining these techniques, you can create dynamic and interesting variations. The key is to use them appropriately according to the mood and intention of the song. It’s also important to make adjustments while listening carefully.
Creating Tight and Compact Drum Sounds: 7 Techniques for Beatmakers
Today, we’ll delve into methods for creating the “compact drum sound” that many seek. By suppressing unnecessary resonance and creating a tight sound, your beats will give a more professional impression.
1. Sample Selection is Key
First, it’s crucial to choose appropriate samples. Look for dry samples with short reverb. Samples recorded with close-miking are ideal for compact sound creation as they have minimal environmental influence.
2. Smart Use of Envelopes
Utilize ADSR envelopes. Set short decay and release times, and lower the sustain level to suppress sound lingering. This alone can significantly tighten drum sounds.
3. Control Room Reverb
Overusing reverb can make the sound too expansive. If used, set extremely short pre-delay and decay times, and carefully adjust the dry/wet balance.
4. Shaping Sound with EQ
EQ processing is essential for sound design. Cut low and high frequencies, and moderately boost the mid-range (especially around 500Hz to 2kHz) to create a compact yet impactful sound.
5. Tightening Sound with Compression
Set the compressor’s attack fast and release short. Use a relatively high ratio (4:1 or higher) to narrow the dynamic range, further tightening the sound.
6. Eliminating Unwanted Sounds with Gates
Use a noise gate to completely cut unnecessary reverb and low-level sounds. This results in a clean, tight sound.
7. Enhancing Contours with Transient Design
Finally, use a transient shaper to emphasize the attack portion and suppress the sustain. This further defines the drum’s contour, enhancing the compact impression.
Conclusion
By combining these techniques, you can create compact, tight drum sounds with suppressed unnecessary resonance. However, appropriate adjustments are necessary depending on the music genre and song atmosphere. It’s important to listen to the actual sound and work towards your target sound. Try these techniques – they’re sure to add new appeal to your beats. Happy beatmaking!
Balancing the Spatial Characteristics of Vinyl Drum Samples: Effective Use of Reverb
making, vinyl drum samples offer a unique warmth and texture. However, when combining drum parts from different records, spatial balance issues can arise.
This article explains how to effectively use reverb to solve this problem and create a cohesive drum kit.
Identifying the Problem
When combining drum parts sampled from different vinyl records, the following issues may occur:
- Spatial inconsistencies
- Differences in depth
- Mismatched stereo imaging
- Variations in reverberation time
These problems can make the entire drum kit sound unnatural, potentially reducing the quality of the composition.
Solutions Using Reverb
Proper use of reverb can effectively resolve these issues. Here are specific methods:
1. Creating a Common Space
- Apply the same reverb to all drum parts to create a shared acoustic space.
- For plugins, using convolution reverb to simulate specific spaces (e.g., studios or halls) can be effective.
2. Adjusting Depth
- Adjust the pre-delay of the reverb to align the depth of each part.
- Set shorter pre-delays for parts you want to bring forward (e.g., snare) and longer pre-delays for parts you want to push back (e.g., room mics).
3. Improving Stereo Image
- Use stereo reverb to balance left and right channels.
- Combine with panning to create a natural stereo space.
- For example, if you pan the hi-hat to the right, balance it by setting the reverb return slightly to the left.
4. Unifying Reverberation Time
- Apply reverb with the same decay time to all parts as a baseline.
- However, make fine adjustments based on the characteristics of each instrument:
- Shorter decay for low-frequency instruments like kick and snare
- Longer decay for high-frequency instruments like cymbals
Practical Techniques
Utilizing Send/Return Method
Send each drum part to a reverb send and adjust the balance. This allows for fine control over the ratio of dry to wet signals.
Using Multi-band Reverb
Apply different reverb settings for each frequency band. Set shorter decay for low frequencies and longer decay for high frequencies to achieve a more natural sound.
Combining with EQ
Remove unnecessary frequencies with EQ before applying reverb. Apply EQ after reverb as well to adjust overall sound quality.
Incorporating Modulation
Adding light modulation (vibrato or chorus) can create a richer sense of space.
Precautions
- Aim for moderate use to avoid losing clarity and power in the drums.
- Consider the context of the project, selecting reverb appropriate for the overall mood and genre of the music.
- Conduct A/B testing regularly to confirm improvements and fine-tune settings as needed.
Conclusion
Proper use of reverb is a powerful tool for transforming disparate vinyl drum samples into a cohesive drum kit. However, its use requires caution and experience. By practicing the techniques introduced in this article and through trial and error, you can create an attractive drum sound that maintains a vintage atmosphere while benefiting from modern production techniques.
Reverb is not just an effect, but a creative tool in music production. Master these techniques and explore your own unique sound.
Choosing Drum Samples in Beatmaking: Comparing Drum Libraries, Vinyl Samples, and Drum Breaks
Selecting drum sounds is a crucial element in music production. Understanding the characteristics of each type can lead to more effective beat creation.
Drum Libraries (Drum Kits)
Advantages:
- Diversity: Obtain various types of drum sounds in one package
- Consistency: Sounds within the same kit are harmonious with each other
- Customizability: Ability to adjust each part individually
- Ease of use: Often integrated into DAWs, making operation simple
- Tuning: Usually pre-tuned and ready for immediate use
Disadvantages:
- Memory consumption: Large libraries can consume computer resources
- Excessive options: Too many choices may hinder creativity
- Lack of uniqueness: Many producers may use the same libraries
- Uniformity in tuning: Pre-tuned nature may require additional work to create unique tones
Vinyl Drum Samples
Advantages:
- Unique tones: Obtain analog-specific warmth and distortion
- Authentic atmosphere: Suitable for recreating older music genres
- Creative possibilities: Utilize techniques like sampling and chopping
- Tuning diversity: May include tuning from various eras and musical styles
Disadvantages:
- Limited sound quality: May lack clarity compared to digital recordings
- Difficulty in processing: Editing can be challenging depending on the original recording condition
- Copyright issues: Attention to rights is necessary when using
- Tuning uncertainty: Original recording’s tuning may be unclear or unstable
Drum Breaks
Advantages:
- Instant atmosphere: Ready-to-use rhythmic patterns with groove
- Historical value: Incorporate the appeal of famous songs by using their breaks
- Layering possibilities: Create unique sounds by combining with other elements
- Natural tuning: Expect natural tuning as they are taken from actual performances
Disadvantages:
- Lack of originality: Using as-is may result in a lack of uniqueness
- Legal risks: Using uncleared samples may cause issues
- Limited flexibility: Possibility of being constrained by existing patterns
- Fixed tuning: Changing the tuning of the original recording can be difficult
Summary
From a tuning perspective, drum libraries are generally easy to use and ready for immediate use, but may require additional work to achieve uniqueness.
Vinyl drum samples may include diverse tuning, but this can also lead to uncertainty.
Drum breaks can be expected to have natural tuning, but changing it might be challenging.
Understanding these characteristics and making appropriate choices or combinations based on the requirements of the music can lead to more effective and appealing beat creation.
Beats are Like Cake: Understanding Sound Design Through Layers of Frequency Bands
Today, we’ll explain music frequency bands by comparing them to layers of a cake. Welcome to the delicious world of music!
Foundation Layer: Low Frequency Range (20Hz – 250Hz)
The bottom layer of the cake is the low frequency range, which forms the foundation of music.
- Key players: Bass, kick drum
- Characteristics: Forms the basis of rhythm and harmony in music
- Caution: Maintain appropriate levels to avoid muddiness
This layer plays a crucial role in supporting the entire cake.
Middle Layer: Mid-Frequency Range (250Hz – 2kHz)
The middle layer of the cake is the mid-frequency range where the main elements of music gather.
- Key players: Vocals, guitar, piano, and other main instruments
- Characteristics: Core part of the music, center of melody and harmony
- Caution: Be careful not to overlap frequencies of different instruments
This layer determines the main flavor of the cake.
Top Layer: High Frequency Range (2kHz – 20kHz)
The top layer of the cake is the high frequency range that adds brilliance to the music.
- Key players: Cymbals, hi-hats, noise elements
- Characteristics: Adds clarity and air to the music
- Caution: Adjust moderately to avoid harshness
This layer adds vibrancy to the entire cake.
Using Filters: Adjusting the Layers
Like adjusting cake layers, use filters to adjust each frequency band.
- Low-pass filter: Cuts high frequencies (trims the top layer)
- High-pass filter: Cuts low frequencies (trims the bottom layer)
- Band-pass filter: Allows only specific frequency bands (keeps only specific layers)
Example with Rap and Chorus
Rap part:
- Apply low-pass filter to the sample: Cut the top layer, emphasize middle and bottom layers
- Effect: Highlights the rap vocals (mid-range)
Chorus part:
- Remove low-pass filter: Restore all layers
- Effect: Opens up the sound, becomes brighter
Conclusion
Music production is like making a cake by skillfully combining layers of frequency bands. By balancing each layer and adjusting with filters, you can create wonderful music that resonates with listeners. Be conscious of the balance between low, mid, and high frequencies, and aim for a mix that brings out the characteristics of each part. This will result in a delicious music cake that stays in the hearts of listeners! Why not become a patissier of frequency-conscious music production and create your own wonderful works?
The Allure of Ghost Kicks: The Hidden Star of Hip-Hop Beats
In the world of hip-hop beatmaking, there are various techniques, but today we’ll focus on a special method called “ghost kicks.” Ghost kicks are an important element that adds depth and complexity to beats. Let’s take a closer look at their meaning and how to use them.
What are Ghost Kicks?
Ghost kicks refer to additional kick drums placed between the main kick drums, with reduced volume. They are typically set at a lower volume than the main kicks and serve to add subtle movement and tension to the beat.
Effects of Ghost Kicks
- Enhances rhythmic complexity
- Increases the beat’s dynamism
- Adds musical depth
- Strengthens groove
How to Create Ghost Kicks
- Proper placement: Place ghost kicks between main kicks, typically on 16th or 32nd note timings.
- Volume adjustment: Generally, set the volume of ghost kicks to about 30-50% of the main kick.
- Sound selection: Use the same sound as the main kick or choose a lighter sound for different effects.
- EQ adjustment: Slightly reducing the low frequencies can help avoid interference with the main kick.
- Pattern experimentation: Try various placement patterns to find the groove that fits the song.
Points to Note
- Be careful not to overuse: Ghost kicks are most effective when used sparingly.
- Balance with main kicks: Be careful not to disrupt the overall mix balance.
- Genre-appropriate use: Remember that usage frequency varies depending on the sub-genre of hip-hop.
Ghost kicks are an excellent tool for elevating your beat-making skills to the next level. Keep practicing and create your own unique sound.