The captivating genre of Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is enjoying a surge in popularity. From humble beginnings in the underground dance scene, to the meteoric success of esteemed producers such as Calvin Harris, Skrillex, and Tiesto, the EDM movement is truly on the rise.
EDM stands for Electronic Dance Music and is a type of music typically made with electronic devices such as synthesizers and drum machines. EDM is often characterized by its upbeat tempo and repetition of melodic patterns and is widely popular in nightclubs, festivals, and radio stations.
Given the immense popularity of this genre, the possibilities for musical expression are virtually limitless. Not to mention, the range of tools and technology one can use to craft beats, sounds, and arrangements digitally is truly remarkable.
If you are passionate about creating electronic dance music, then you have come to the right place. Whether you are just beginning to explore the genre, or have already created a few tracks, here is the information you need to successfully become an electronic music producer. Dedication is key to achieving success in this field, but with your enthusiasm and drive, the possibilities are truly endless.
How To Start Making Electronic Dance Music
1. Research All Different EDM Artists
Researching different EDM artists will give you an idea of the various production techniques that have been used to create successful tracks. Learning from the different styles of different artists can help you create a unique sound that sets your music apart from the competition.
Researching different artists can also give you access to the latest trends and sounds that are popular in the scene. By studying different artists, you can create a library of samples and sounds to use in your own productions. Researching different EDM artists can also help you develop your mixing and production skills, enabling you to create professional sounding tracks.
How to Do it:
- Listen to music by EDM artists. Familiarize yourself with the different styles and genres of EDM.
- Follow EDM blogs like Beatport, DJ MAG, Dailybeat, Bassface and more, and Social Media accounts. Read reviews, interviews, and profiles to learn about EDM artists and their music.
- Attend all the events, festivals, and concerts. This is a great way to experience the music and observe how people interact with it.
- Check out the artist websites and social media pages. Read about their latest news, releases, and upcoming events.
- Check out EDM-related magazines to read interviews and reviews of EDM artists.
- Follow all the music labels like Spinnin’ Records, Future House Music, Big Beat Records, Mau5trap, Radio Stations, and Record Stores to keep up with the latest releases and trends.
- Research EDM-related topics online. Read articles, watch videos, and listen to podcasts to learn more about the genre.
- Join online communities and forums to connect with other fans and discuss the music.
2. Choose a Genre of EDM You Want to Produce
Choosing a Genre will help you in finding the right style of music to produce and focus on the elements specific to that genre.It will provide you with the direction to use the right sounds, samples and effects to make your music stand out.
You can choose from Genres like Electro House, Dubstep, Trap, Drum and Bass, Glitch, Trance, Hardstyle and Progressive House. It will help.
you to gain an understanding of the rhythms, beats and sounds that are associated with the genre and how to use them effectively in your own work.
It will give you an insight into the history and evolution of the genre and how it has been shaped by different producers and DJs. It will help you to create a unique signature sound and make your music stand out from the crowd.
3. Learn a Digital Audio Workstation
Learning a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) will help you to quickly create and edit your tracks with the help of its user-friendly environment. A DAW will allow you to combine and manipulate multiple audio signals, giving you the ability to mix, EQ, and process your audio for a professional sounding production.
You can use a DAW to rapidly arrange and sequence your music, creating complex and interesting compositions. A DAW also offers you a range of tools to create unique sounds and effects, enabling you to create unique, expressive electronic dance music.
You can use a DAW to apply real-time effects and automation to your tracks, allowing you to dynamically control the sound of your music.Some of the biggest names in music production are Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, Pro Tools, and Ableton Live.
4. Learn Music Theory
Learning music theory will help you better understand the structure of Electronic Dance Music and how to create effective melodies. Knowing music theory fundamentals will help you create more complex and interesting compositions.
Learning music theory will allow you to better understand chord progressions and how they can be used to create catchy bass lines and other musical elements. Knowing music theory will help you understand the different scales and how they can be used to create unique and interesting sounds. Learning music theory will help you understand how to use rhythm to create more dynamic and engaging music.
How to do it:
- Take formal music theory lessons from a qualified instructor. This is the best way to learn music theory, as having a knowledgeable and experienced teacher can help you gain an understanding of music theory quickly and efficiently.
- Watch an online course or tutorial to follow. There are many online courses and tutorials available for free, or for a fee, that can help you get a good understanding of music theory.
- Use books and other resources to teach yourself. There are many books available on the market that can help you understand music theory.
- Take advantage of online forums and discussion boards. These are great resources to ask questions, get feedback, and discuss music theory with others.
- Listen to music and analyze it. By listening to and analyzing music, you can gain a better understanding of music theory.
- Practice what you learn. Make sure to apply what you learn by writing and performing music.
5. Learn How to Arrange Music
Learning to arrange music will help you to create a well-structured and organized song. This will help you to make better use of the elements available in the Electronic Dance Music genre.Understanding music arrangement will help you to place different sounds, instruments, and effects in their proper places and create a more polished finished product.
When arranging music, you will be able to create a musical journey that will keep the listeners engaged and excited. This will ensure better success for your EDM production.Knowing how to arrange music will also help you to layer different elements to create a more complex sound. This will help you to make your EDM production more unique and interesting.
Finally, learning to arrange music will give you the ability to quickly and effectively make changes to your song when needed. This will help you to create the perfect production that will capture the attention of your audience.
6. Learn How to Make Music
Learning to mix music will give you the ability to accurately blend tracks together, making it easier to create a cohesive and professional-sounding EDM track. Mixing music will help you understand sound engineering better, allowing you to better shape and arrange your tracks. By learning to mix music, you’ll be able to create smooth transitions between different sections of your EDM track, which will make it sound more professional and engaging.
Mixing music will teach you about the different levels and frequencies of sound, helping you to better control the dynamics of your EDM production. Learning to mix music will give you the ability to create balanced and clear mixes, allowing you to make the most of your production.
You’ve got the software down to a science, you know how to mix to perfection, and you’ve got some amazing tracks ready to go. So why not share them with the world?
Releasing your music on SoundCloud or YouTube is a brave endeavor, and one that will be greatly rewarded with feedback. It’s not an easy journey, but if you want to grow as an artist, it’s necessary. Reach out to friends and professionals alike, to hear what they have to say and discover where you can improve.
Take the time to reach out and connect with other members of the electronic music community. Who knows what great opportunities could present themselves in the future? When you network with other producers, you not only make valuable connections, but you also get to learn from some of the more experienced artists in the scene.
At the end of the adventure, you must remain dedicated to the genre and eager to learn more along your journey. With a strong foundation, you will become an expert electronic music producer and continue to bring something new to the table as you build a career in EDM.
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