Genx Notes

Category: Making Beats

  • Udio 1.5 Update: A New Era in Music Production

    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

    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.

    The Pitfall of Sample Packs

    In recent years, many producers have been using sample packs (libraries) to create tracks. While the convenience and wide range of options are attractive, there’s a significant problem when aiming for a 90s hip-hop sound.

    The biggest drawback of sample packs is the lack of sound unity. Kicks, snares, hi-hats, etc., are recorded in different environments, resulting in variations in tone and spatial feel. As a result, much adjustment is needed during the mixing stage, potentially losing the original groove.

    The Appeal of Drum Breaks

    In contrast, using drum breaks played by human drummers can bring you closer to the 90s hip-hop sound. The reasons are as follows:

    1. Unified recording environment: The entire drum set is recorded in the same space, providing natural resonance and consistency.
    2. Consistent miking: The same microphones and techniques are used for each drum part, ensuring uniform sound texture.
    3. Matched tuning: A drum set tuned by the drummer has harmonious pitches across all parts.
    4. Natural dynamics: Human performance includes subtle nuances and dynamics, creating a living groove that isn’t mechanical.
    5. Originality: Using famous breaks can directly evoke the atmosphere of 90s hip-hop.

    Conclusion

    When pursuing the 90s hip-hop sound, using drum breaks is highly effective. Rather than relying on the convenience of sample packs, leveraging the appeal and consistency of human performance can create a sound closer to the real thing.

    Producers, try rediscovering the charm of drum breaks in your next track production. It’s sure to spark new creativity and inspiration.

  • How to Create Variations in Hip-Hop Beats

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    1. Proper placement: Place ghost kicks between main kicks, typically on 16th or 32nd note timings.
    2. Volume adjustment: Generally, set the volume of ghost kicks to about 30-50% of the main kick.
    3. Sound selection: Use the same sound as the main kick or choose a lighter sound for different effects.
    4. EQ adjustment: Slightly reducing the low frequencies can help avoid interference with the main kick.
    5. 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.

  • 7 Ways to Improve Flat Drums in Hip-Hop Beatmaking

    7 Ways to Improve Flat Drums in Hip-Hop Beatmaking

    In hip-hop beatmaking, drums are a crucial element that can be considered the heart of the track. However, sometimes drums can sound flat, diminishing the overall appeal of the song. Here are seven methods to improve flat-sounding drums:

    1. Check the Swing

    Swing is an important element that adds a human feel and dynamism to the beat.

    • Generally, 16th note swing is effective, but adjustment is necessary depending on the song’s style.
    • You can use the swing function in your DAW or manually adjust note positions.
    • Adding swing can soften the mechanical impression and create a more natural groove.

    2. Reconsider the Sequence Itself

    Rethinking how you construct drum patterns can often improve a flat impression.

    • Avoid monotonous patterns and add variation.
    • Add ghost notes and ornamental sounds to give depth to the rhythm.
    • Layering different drum sounds can also effectively increase the thickness of the sound.

    3. Check Volume Levels

    If the balance of each drum sound is not appropriate, it can give an overall flat impression.

    • Set appropriate volumes for main sounds like kicks and snares.
    • Adjust decorative sounds like hi-hats and percussion so they don’t interfere with the main sounds.
    • Varying velocity can create a more natural playing feel.

    4. Review Sample Selection

    • Use higher quality drum samples
    • Try different drum kits or sample packs

    5. Utilize EQ and Compression

    • Use EQ to remove unnecessary frequencies and emphasize important ones
    • Adjust attack and release with compression to shape the drums
    • Use parallel compression to add punch

    6. Saturation and Distortion

    • Add moderate distortion to give thickness and warmth to the sound
    • Use plugins like tape saturation

    7. Add Reverb and Delay

    • Use spatial effects to give depth to the drums
    • Use as send effects and adjust the dry/wet balance

    By keeping these seven methods in mind when adjusting drums, you can improve the flat impression and create hip-hop beats with more groove. It’s important to always listen carefully and make fine adjustments. Also, analyzing the drum sounds of tracks you want to reference and incorporating their techniques can be effective. Happy beatmaking!

  • I created a foundation beat and asked AI to generate a melody based on it. Then, I reworked that melody. So, who owns the finished beat?

    I created a foundation beat and asked AI to generate a melody based on it. Then, I reworked that melody. So, who owns the finished beat?

    My Avatar 5

    I created a foundation beat and asked AI to generate a melody based on it. Then, I reworked that melody. So, who owns the finished beat?

    This question raises an interesting issue regarding creativity and copyright in music production. The ownership of the completed beat can be considered as follows:

    View as a Collaborative Work

    1. You created the foundation beat
    2. AI generated the melody
    3. You reworked the melody

    Looking at this process, the finished beat could essentially be considered a collaborative work between you and the AI.

    Legal Perspective

    However, from a legal standpoint, the situation might be different:

    • Many countries do not recognize copyright for AI-generated content.
    • You added creativity by ultimately reworking the melody.

    From these points, legally, the finished beat is likely to be treated as your copyrighted work.

    Ethical Considerations

    From an ethical standpoint, it might be appropriate to acknowledge the AI’s contribution and give credit. For example, you could label it as “AI assisted” or “AI collaboration” to maintain transparency in the production process.

    Conclusion

    While legally it’s probably your copyrighted work, recognizing the AI’s contribution and giving appropriate credit can lead to more honest and transparent music production. Ultimately, it’s important to make a decision based on your judgment and ethical standards.