TL;DR
- Making beats is not easy skill, but with time, consistency and a few elements, there is nothing you can't master.
- You'll need a computer, a DAW, a sequencer, some samples, headphones/speakers and maybe a MIDI controller.
- Then you'll need to define your genre, tempo, drum pattern, arrangement and sound selection.
- You can use beat selling platforms and social media to promote your tracks
- You'll need to put in the hours, network and keep creative.
Are you ready to embark on a journey into the world of beat-making? Whether you're interested in creating Trap Beats, LoFi Hip Hop, or Dance Music, this guide will walk you through the steps of making beats and provide valuable insights on how to monetize your tracks.
Is it easy to make beats?
Many aspiring music producers wonder if beat-making is an easy endeavor. While it may require time, effort, and dedication, it's definitely an attainable skill to acquire. With practice and the right guidance, you can develop your beat-making abilities and create captivating compositions that resonate with your audience.
How do music producers create beats?
To create captivating beats, you'll need essential tools and sounds. Here's what you'll require:
- Computer: A reliable computer with sufficient memory and disk space is crucial. It serves as the foundation for your beat-making setup. While analog equipment was popular in the past, the digital era allows us to create beats efficiently using software and MIDI controllers.
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Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): A DAW is the heart of music production. It enables you to record, edit, mix, and master your beats. There are many, and some even work online without having to purchase or download anything.
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Sequencer: A sequencer is a grid where you arrange the pattern of your sounds. It's particularly useful for programming drum sounds but can be used for any instrument.
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Samples and Loops Library: Samples and loops provide pre-made sounds and patterns that can add depth and creativity to your beats. Here you'll find an extensive library of over 2 gb of royalty-free loops, free sample packs and sounds suitable for various genres absolutely for free. This resource empowers you to experiment and enhance your beat-making process.
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MIDI Controller: While not essential, a MIDI controller can greatly enhance your beat-making experience. It provides physical keys and pads that allow you to play and program instruments with ease. Whether it's playing chords, melodies, or programming drums, a MIDI controller offers a tactile and intuitive approach to creating beats.
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Headphones and/or Speakers: Investing in a quality set of headphones and/or studio monitors is crucial for accurately hearing and evaluating your beats. Laptop speakers may not provide an accurate representation of your mix, especially when it comes to bass and low-end frequencies. Having a reliable monitoring setup ensures that your beats sound great across different listening devices.
How to make beats and sell them?
Turning your beat-making skills into a profitable venture is an exciting possibility. Here are a few avenues to consider for monetizing your beats:
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Online Platforms: Explore platforms like Beatstars, where you can sell your beats directly to artists and producers. Utilize their marketplace to showcase your work and attract potential buyers. Here's an article with more info about online beat selling platforms and your next steps in your music producer journey.
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Publishing Labels: Signing with a publishing label can provide valuable support in building your career and connecting with the right artists. This avenue offers opportunities to gain exposure and increase the value of your beats.
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Social Media: Leverage the power of social media to promote your beats and engage with a wider audience. Establish a strong online presence, connect with fellow beat makers, up-and-coming musicians, and industry professionals. Collaborations and networking can open doors to new opportunities.
There are myriad tools to make content creation easier than ever. Try these and use social media for music producers the right way.
What sounds do you need to make a beat?
Music producers employ various techniques to create beats that captivate listeners. The process typically involves the following steps:
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Genre Selection: Determine the genre of beats you want to create. Each genre has its own unique vibe, tempo, and energy, which will help you position yourself within the beat-making universe.
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Tempo and Vibe: Set the beats per minute (BPM) to establish the desired tempo. Consider the emotions and atmosphere you want to convey through your beat. Is it energetic or laid-back? Happy or melancholic? These factors will guide your creative decisions.
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Drum Pattern Sequencing: Create a compelling drum pattern using a reliable online drum sequencer like Soundtrap's Patterns Beatmaker. Experiment with different sounds and rhythms to find the perfect groove for your beats.
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Chord Progressions: Develop basic chords that serve as the foundation of your beat. These chords will influence the melody and bass line of your composition, so keep them simple yet engaging.
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Melody Creation: Craft a catchy and memorable melody that enhances your beat. Explore all of these free guitar loops to find a melody that complements your track and adds an extra layer of appeal.
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Bass Line: The bass serves as the heartbeat of your beat.
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Samples and Sound FX: To make your beats more interesting, consider incorporating samples and sound effects. These can be sourced from various audio elements, such as vocals, instrumentation, or even everyday sounds. Get creative and experiment with different samples to make your beats stand out. Get some of those here!
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Song Structure: Organize your beat into different sections, such as an intro, verse, hook, and outro. This structure provides a dynamic listening experience and allows artists to write lyrics that complement the beat's flow.
Two secret tools for better music production
All of Mostro's Free Guitar Loops have two secret tools that will take your production to the fastlane: the Creative Control Layers and Speed Foundation Files.
The Speed Foundation Files are the most important tool that I've added to all the loops. They will help you make beats faster and skip all the boring tasks simply dragging and dropping.
The Creative Control Layers let you separate each guitar of the loop to play around and create exciting arrangements that sound good, in just a few steps.
The Secret to Becoming a Great Beat Maker
Becoming an exceptional beat maker requires dedication, perseverance, and practice. Here are a few tips to help you on your journey:
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Put in the Hours: Just like any other skill, mastering beat-making takes time. Malcolm Gladwell's "10,000-hour rule" applies here as well. Commit to spending countless hours honing your craft in the studio. With dedication, your skills will improve, and your beats will shine.
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Embrace Networking: Connect with other beat makers, musicians, and industry professionals. Social media platforms provide excellent opportunities to showcase your beats, collaborate, and form valuable relationships. Collaborating with up-and-coming artists can lead to exposure and further opportunities.
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Stay Creative and Authentic: Don't be afraid to explore new sounds, techniques, and styles. Find your unique voice and develop your own signature sound. Authenticity sets you apart and attracts listeners who resonate with your style.
Beat-making is an exciting and rewarding journey that allows you to express your creativity and captivate audiences. By following the steps outlined in this guide and utilizing the right tools, you'll be equipped to create impressive beats.
Remember, success in beat-making requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to explore new possibilities. So, ditch the fear and start making some awesome beats!