How to Make Your First Beat
And even if you have software, how do you make your own beat that actually sounds good? First, let me list the available software programs that are out there, that producers are actually using.
So, in no particular order, here it goes: Ableton Live, Adobe Audition, GarageBand, Reason, FL Studio, Acid Pro, Pro Tools, Dub Turbo, Komplete...
the list goes on.
Many of the high budget producers use elements of these programs along with workstations, keyboards, MPCs, samplers, etc.
Many of these programs can be used standalone to make beats, however, it is not a common practice among the "top dogs.
" That being said, if you are a newbie, it might be useful to start off with the more "user-friendly" programs.
Out of those listed above, I would say Dub Turbo is the most newbie friendly, with FL Studio being my second pick.
I personally prefer FL Studio, but it is pricier, and requires a broader knowledge of production.
Next, as I promised, here are a few tips to help you make your own beats.
1.
Keep the beat simple.
I know you must have millions of ideas spinning in your head, but for your first banger, it's important to stick to the basics.
Unless you're a musical prodigy who happens to know nothing about making beats or production, you should probably stick to 4/4 time.
Most rap beats are in that time signature anyhow.
2.
Stick to a simple melody.
Think nursery rhymes.
I know it sounds ridiculous, but you'd be amazed how great your beats come out when it's all said and done.
A good rule of thumb for your first beat is to use 3 or 4 basic notes that determine the melody of the rest of your instruments 3.
Dynamics! Get a basic 8 bar beat that sounds great with all your instruments in it, and use it as the chorus.
When you start off a verse, experiment with the sound by dropping out the beat at the beginning or halfway through.
Start the verse with fewer instruments and build it up.
Or break it down by dropping all melodies and let the beat ride by itself for a couple bars.
4.
When it sounds good, start a second beat.
I know you want your first beat to be perfect, but if you want to master your beat making software, you have to learn by trial and error.
So there you have it! Practice makes perfect.
You'd be surprised at how great your beats will sound if you have some user-friendly software and follow these tips.