How To Make Good Rap Beats
It's never been easier to make good rap beats on your computer than right now. There is a range of software programs to help you, and if you have the right hardware, you're off to a flying start. Of course, as with most things, the software and hardware are just tools. What really matters is having the right "ear" for the sound you're creating. So... here are some tips for making tight sounding rap beats...
The first thing to decide is actually whether to buy or make all your beats. After all, there are lots of sites on the Net where you can buy solid beats. Many offer exclusive rights - which means only you have the rights to use certain beats - although these can be a bit pricey. On the other hand, if you can still add samples, other instrumentation, etc. to the sound to make it unique, maybe a non-exclusive beat will do. The main thing is that you end up with a beat that sounds professional and has the feel you're looking for.
Your other option is to make the beats yourself. In this case you'll want a program like Acid Pro Beat Software, Fruity Loops Beat Software or Music Producer Pro. There are many reviews on each of these programs and others on the Net, so do a little research to find which one best suits your needs and budget. Then it's a matter of learning how to use the product you buy, and doing a lot of experimentation!
Now, do you want to make beats to sell... or do you want to make your own music? If you want to make beats to sell, then, once you've mastered the software, you can create as many different beats as you like. But if you've bought a beat, or made a beat, to create your own music, you'll want to start working on your first song.
If so, once you've settled on a rap beat or beats you like, it's time to think in terms of lyrics, rhyme, melody and other instrumental sounds and special effects you may want to include in your song. Here are some things to consider:
- Lyrics
What do you want to say? The most memorable rap songs have strong lyrics, so try to say something powerful and different from everything else.
- Rhyme
You generally want your lyrics to rhyme every 2-4 syllables, with at least one rhyme every two bars (when the snare in the beat or instrumental hits twice). In general, verses in rap have 16 bars, while a hook typically has 8 bars. Therefore, the snare will hit 32 times in a verse and 16 in a hook.
- Melody and Instrumental
Consider the melody and other sounds you'd like to incorporate in the song in order to enhance - but not overshadow - the lyrics and beat.
In summary, feel free to experiment until you're happy with your song. Get feedback from friends who are supportive, yet objective (and are rap fans), and make any modifications accordingly. And when you're done... I'd love to hear it!
|