So you now know the basics of Synths and Samples from the previous article. Whats next? I want to give a brief overview of the different layers that go into a song. This can act as a framework before you begin, and will help you create a richer sound as you work.Now, not everything mentioned below is required for every song, but it’s good to know what’s available and to eventually realize what you might be missing. When it comes to the layers of a song, more is not always the merrier, but execution is always key.
Drums (Percussion) –
This is where most beginners like to start, and where a lot of experts will hover over for months at a time. The drums are the almighty “Uhn-tiss-uhn-tiss,” of your song. If you haven’t had a lot of exposure to music in general, drums (or percussion) consist of many different pieces: kicks, snares, hats (hi and low), claps, and many more. In a lot of sample packs you can find hundreds of different striking surfaces and sounds from wooden blocks to tin cans. When it comes to percussion, creativity is rewarded and a cohesive drum kit takes work.
Bass –
The bass can sometimes be confused for drums because their sound can intertwine so often. People often associate “dat bass,” with heavy-hitting subwoofers and rap music, but the truth goes well beyond. There are so many variations to bass with lows, mids, and sub-bases(woofers!), that it’s disingenuous to pigeonhole it. Bass can drive the whole track, or fill out a weaker drum kit. It provides transition and rhythm, and can range from a long half beat to a fast-fingered quarter pluck.
Melody / Keys –
Melody and keys can always be tricky because this can quickly become the entirety of your song. That isn’t a bad thing however, but it’s just something worth noting early on. Producers will occasionally build out their song as a whole with keys, then piece it out to the other layers later on(to bass/lead/pads, etc.) A piano is such a universal component when it comes to making music so it typically fits in to most songs. There isn’t much else to add here because it’s a very familiar space.
Pads –
Pads are a very under-appreciated part of electronic music. This is your background noise, your filler, your rise and fall. It can be your OOohs and AAahs is the background. Oftentimes its associated with angelic harmonies. A fairly recognizable use of pads would be in the beginning of the song (throwback!) DJ Encore’s – I See Right Through To You. In this case, it provides a very aura-like sound to start off the song. Pads are difficult to get right because it’s hard to find the perfect volume and style to really enhance a song.
Lead –
The lead can be debatable. It can be a placeholder for vocals or non-existent. When you listen to an instrumental version of your favorite song, the instrument that replaces the singer is a perfect example of a lead. It really depends on the time of music you are planning to make. Listen to your favorite genres and make the call.
Great, now you have more fundamentals under your belt. You know enough to be dangerous, and could possibly hold your own in a conversation about production. If nothing else, you’ve got some fun-facts to point out next time you and a buddy are listening to your favorite jam on your way to a concert. Onward and upward!