In today's article, we'll discuss different production methods used in hip-hop to make a beat. We won't argue or debate the best production method because the discussion is rather pointless. However, we will talk about different production ideas so that you may experiment with them in your own production workflow. The following are common production methods used in hip-hop:
Sampling: The origin of hip-hop, sampling involves taking bits of music from existing recordings to make something new. The range of sampling can be from simply taking a segment of an existing hit and looping it; or chopping up many different musical segments from different songs and putting them together.
Layered Sampling: This style is very similar to sampling, except original layers of music are added on top of the sample. The resulting song sounds more original and less sampled as a result. A lot of Trackmaster's records follow this style.
Synth-Based: At the opposite end of the spectrum from sampling is synthesizer-based beats where electronic synths and drum machines are used to make beats. This style of production reigns supreme in the south and this line of production descends directly from Afrika Bambaata who pioneered the sound in hip-hop's infancy.
Interpolation: With interpolation, a producer hires a team of musicians to interpret, or rather, to play the musical part that he/she hears on a record. The actual sample is not used. It is the recording of the musician's hired that are used. This allows the producer to do different things like change the instruments, rhythms, or tempo of the sample since they aren't using a record. The pioneer of this method is Dr. Dre.
Live Instruments: Using live instruments and musicians to make beats is another method of hip-hop production. Synths are still used and featured prominently, but usually the recording process involves the band playing together with a live drummer instead of relying on midi production. The focus of this style is on live performance versus studio records. The Roots are the most prominent artists of this style.
As the world of hip-hop evolves, so will it's production methods. However, experiment with any of the methods listed above to increase the versatility of your productions.
Sampling: The origin of hip-hop, sampling involves taking bits of music from existing recordings to make something new. The range of sampling can be from simply taking a segment of an existing hit and looping it; or chopping up many different musical segments from different songs and putting them together.
Layered Sampling: This style is very similar to sampling, except original layers of music are added on top of the sample. The resulting song sounds more original and less sampled as a result. A lot of Trackmaster's records follow this style.
Synth-Based: At the opposite end of the spectrum from sampling is synthesizer-based beats where electronic synths and drum machines are used to make beats. This style of production reigns supreme in the south and this line of production descends directly from Afrika Bambaata who pioneered the sound in hip-hop's infancy.
Interpolation: With interpolation, a producer hires a team of musicians to interpret, or rather, to play the musical part that he/she hears on a record. The actual sample is not used. It is the recording of the musician's hired that are used. This allows the producer to do different things like change the instruments, rhythms, or tempo of the sample since they aren't using a record. The pioneer of this method is Dr. Dre.
Live Instruments: Using live instruments and musicians to make beats is another method of hip-hop production. Synths are still used and featured prominently, but usually the recording process involves the band playing together with a live drummer instead of relying on midi production. The focus of this style is on live performance versus studio records. The Roots are the most prominent artists of this style.
As the world of hip-hop evolves, so will it's production methods. However, experiment with any of the methods listed above to increase the versatility of your productions.
About the Author:
Frank Lubsey is a composer, jingle writer, and beat maker that is a part of the Jam Sonic production team. Visit his website for hip-hop beats for sale and to purchase beats.
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