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: The origins of this date back to Afrika Bambaata, but this is simply using synthesizers and drum machines to create original music. The majority of Dirty South music is descended from this vein of hip-hop.
Interpolation: This form of production is similar to sampling with the exception that it doesn't use the actual recording in a song. Instead, a producer finds a sample he likes and then hires musicians to re-create the sample. This gives the producer the flexibility to change the sound and rhythm of the musical idea. Dr. Dre is a pioneer of this method.
Live Instruments: Hip-hop started off as an electronic art form, however, as it continues to evolve, it has shown potential to become an art that can thrive with live instruments as well. Like the name suggests, live instruments and musicians are used to produce original music. This is not to say that synths aren't used, because they are. The core difference is that the song recordings are usually played live in a studio versus using midi, and there is usually a real drummer versus a drum machine. The Roots are the most prominent band with this style of production.
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: The origins of this date back to Afrika Bambaata, but this is simply using synthesizers and drum machines to create original music. The majority of Dirty South music is descended from this vein of hip-hop.
Interpolation: This form of production is similar to sampling with the exception that it doesn't use the actual recording in a song. Instead, a producer finds a sample he likes and then hires musicians to re-create the sample. This gives the producer the flexibility to change the sound and rhythm of the musical idea. Dr. Dre is a pioneer of this method.
Live Instruments: Hip-hop started off as an electronic art form, however, as it continues to evolve, it has shown potential to become an art that can thrive with live instruments as well. Like the name suggests, live instruments and musicians are used to produce original music. This is not to say that synths aren't used, because they are. The core difference is that the song recordings are usually played live in a studio versus using midi, and there is usually a real drummer versus a drum machine. The Roots are the most prominent band with this style of production.
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 beat maker, jingle writer, and producer for the Jam Sonic music squad. Visit his site for hip-hop beats for sale and to purchase beats.
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