Have you ever wanted to create electrifying beats that make the dance floor come alive? This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to make electro music produced using Sesh, the #1 collaborative digital audio workstation. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, you’ll find valuable insights and practical tips to elevate your electro music production game.
Understanding Electro Music: The Essence of Electro Funk
Before we dive into the production process, it’s crucial to understand what makes electro music unique. Electro is one of the many music genres within electronic music, often compared to other styles like Techno due to their overlapping characteristics. Emerging in the early 1980s, electro music is a genre of electronic dance music (EDM) characterized by its use of drum machines, synthesizers, and funky basslines. It’s known for its robotic, futuristic sounds and was heavily influenced by early hip-hop and funk.
Essential Elements of Electro Music
To create authentic electro music, you’ll need to focus on several key elements:
Drum Machines: Classic drum sounds from machines like the Roland TR-808. Electronic musical instruments, such as the theremin and Hammond organ, have played a significant role in the development of electro music by expanding the sound palette and capabilities available to musicians.
Synthesizers: Sharp, digital synths that create robotic and futuristic sounds.
Basslines: Funky, syncopated basslines that drive the groove.
Vocoders and Talkboxes: Vocal effects that add a robotic quality.
FX and Samples: Sound effects and samples to add texture and interest.
Understanding these elements and how they work together is crucial in learning how to make electro music that truly captures the essence of the genre.
Setting Up Sesh for Electro Music Production in an Electronic Music Studio
Sesh is a fantastic tool for making electro music, especially with its collaborative features. Here’s how to get started:
Create a New Project: Open Sesh and create a new project. Choose a tempo around 120-130 BPM, which is typical for electro music.
Load Samples: Import your favorite drum machine samples, bass sounds, and synth patches. Having a diverse sound library, including electronic sounds, is key to creating unique electro tracks.
Add Synths: Use Sesh’s built-in synthesizers to create your unique leads and basslines. These will be crucial for crafting the robotic and futuristic sounds characteristic of electro music.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making an Electro Track
Now that you’re set up, let’s walk through the process of creating an electro track in Sesh:
Electro funk, a genre that emerged as a fusion of electronic music and early hip-hop, heavily influenced by the Roland TR-808 drum machines, plays a significant role in shaping the bassline creation process. Its characteristic use of syncopated beats, synthesizers, and minimal basslines, often incorporating robotic vocals and a futuristic sound, distinguishes it from traditional funk and hip-hop.
1. Start with the Drum Machines
The foundation of any great electro track is its drum pattern:
Lay down a basic drum pattern using classic electro drum machine sounds, emphasizing heavy electronic sounds.
Focus on creating a punchy, syncopated rhythm that will drive your track.
Experiment with layering different drum samples to create a unique sound.
Pro Tip: The Roland TR-808 is a classic drum machine often used in electro music. Try to find samples that emulate its iconic sound.
2. Create the Bassline
The bassline is the heart of electro music:
Design a funky, driving bassline that complements the drum pattern.
Use modulation and effects to add movement and interest to your bassline.
Experiment with different synth waveforms to find the perfect bass sound.
Electro music has evolved into various sub-genres, including Electro House, which features a modernized sound incorporating heavy synthesizers and basslines reminiscent of 80s music.
Remember: In electro music, the bassline often plays a crucial role in driving the groove of the track.
3. Add Synths and Other Electronic Musical Instruments
Synths add the futuristic flavor to your electro track:
Create sharp, digital synth leads and pads.
Experiment with different waveforms and effects to achieve that classic electro sound. This will help you capture the authenticity of pure electro, reminiscent of early pioneers like Kraftwerk.
Use arpeggiated synth patterns to add complexity and movement to your track.
4. Incorporate Vocoders
Vocoders and talkboxes are key to achieving the classic robotic vocal sound in electro music:
Add vocal elements using vocoders or talkboxes to give that classic robotic feel.
Electronic popular music, known for its appeal and integration within various music genres, often utilizes arrangements created using electronic synthesizers and innovative recording techniques.
Experiment with different vocoder settings to find the perfect robotic tone.
Consider using spoken word samples or your own vocals processed through a vocoder.
5. Use FX and Samples
Effects and samples add depth and texture to your electro track:
Apply effects like reverb, delay, and phasing to add depth and texture to your sounds.
Musical instruments, especially electronic ones like the theremin and Hammond organ, play a crucial role in creating unique sounds and novel soundscapes.
Use samples sparingly to add interest and variation to your track.
Experiment with glitch effects and granular synthesis for unique sonic textures.
6. Arrange Your Track
With all your elements in place, it’s time to arrange your electro track:
Structure your track with an intro, verse, chorus, and breakdown. Consider the influence of seminal tracks like 'Planet Rock' which revolutionized track arrangement with its fusion of funk and early hip-hop elements.
Use automation to add dynamics and keep the listener engaged.
Create tension and release with your breakdowns and builds.
7. Mix and Master
The final step in how to make electro music is polishing your track:
Balance the levels of each element in your mix.
Use EQ to carve out space for each sound and prevent frequency masking.
Apply compression and limiting to achieve a professional, polished sound.
Pay special attention to your bassline and drums to ensure they cut through the mix.
Tips and Tricks for Beginners in Electro Music Production
As you’re learning how to make electro music, keep these tips in mind:
Focus on Groove: Electro music is all about the groove. Make sure your drum and bass patterns are tight and funky. Understanding the characteristics and history of music electro is crucial for mastering the genre.
Use High-Quality Sounds: Invest in good samples and synth patches. High-quality sounds can make a big difference in the overall quality of your track.
Experiment with Effects: Use effects like reverb, delay, and phasing to add texture to your sounds. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries and create unique sonic landscapes.
Study the Classics: Listen to classic electro tracks to understand the genre’s structure and sound. Artists like Afrika Bambaataa, Kraftwerk, and Egyptian Lover are great places to start.
Practice Regularly: Like any skill, making great electro music takes time and practice. Try to produce something every day, even if it’s just a short loop or experimenting with a new sound.
Leveraging Sesh's Collaborative Features for Electro Music Production
One of Sesh's standout features is its ability to facilitate real-time collaboration. Here's how to make the most of it for electro music production:
Real-Time Collaboration: Invite other producers to your session and work on tracks together in real-time. This can lead to exciting new ideas and faster learning.
Shared Sound Libraries: Use Sesh's shared sound libraries to access a wide range of electro samples and presets. This can help you find the perfect sounds for your tracks quickly.
Feedback and Iteration: Use Sesh's commenting and versioning features to get feedback on your tracks and iterate on your ideas. This can help you refine your skills and create better electro music.
Resources for Learning More About Electro Music Production
Want to dive deeper into how to make electro music? Check out these resources:
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Electro Music
Q: What is the typical BPM for electro music? A: Electro music typically ranges from 120 to 130 BPM.
Q: Can I make electro music on my laptop? A: Absolutely! With a digital audio workstation like Sesh, you can create professional-sounding electro music on your laptop.
Q: Do I need expensive equipment to start making electro music? A: No, you don't. While having good headphones or monitors can help, you can start making electro music with just your computer and Sesh.
Q: How important are vocoders in electro music? A: Very important. Vocoders and talkboxes are key to achieving the classic robotic vocal sound in electro music.
Q: What's the best way to learn electro music production? A: Practice regularly, study professional tracks, and use resources like tutorials and forums to improve your skills. Collaborating with other producers using Sesh can also accelerate your learning.
Conclusion: Your Electro Music Journey Begins with Sesh
Learning how to make electro music is an exciting journey, and with Sesh, you have all the tools you need to create, collaborate, and share your tracks. Remember, the key to success in electro music production is a combination of creativity, technical skill, and persistence. Keep experimenting with different rhythms, sounds, and structures to develop your unique style.
Don't be afraid to push the boundaries of electro music. Some of the most exciting developments in the genre have come from producers who weren't afraid to try something new. With Sesh's powerful features and collaborative capabilities, you're well-equipped to innovate and make your mark on the electro music scene.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into Sesh today and start making the electro music of your dreams. Remember, every great producer started somewhere, and with dedication and practice, you could be the next big name in electro music. Let's make some electrifying beats!
Ready to start your electro music production journey? Sign up for Sesh today and join a community of passionate musicians and producers. With Sesh's powerful features and collaborative capabilities, you're just a few clicks away from creating your first electro masterpiece. Let's make music together!
Recent Posts
Subscribe
Get new features, sounds, and updates first