By
Sample Focus
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music production
A modern music producer can record, mix, master, and distribute their music without setting foot in a studio or signing a record deal. While technology has empowered artists and given us all the tools we need to succeed, it also requires us to master each aspect of the music-making process. Our music production section is our most comprehensive, with carefully crafted articles designed to help you improve your workflow, master new skills, and bring new ideas to life.
Ableton Live Keyboard Shortcuts List
Improve your workflow in Ableton Live with this shortcuts list. From basic navigation to sample manipulation, we cover essential and advanced shortcuts.
Drum Machine Magic: Make Beats & Drum Patterns That Stick
A deep dive on different creative uses for drum machines and sampling. From classic patterns to dynamic beats, learn to craft, layer, and blend drum patterns into your music.
Artist Spotlight on Stellet: The Creative Process
This week, the spotlight goes to a talented artist from Brazil, Danilo Stellet, DJ/Producer that's helped shape the electronic music scene in Brazil for over 15 years. Through his own words, we uncover the essence of his musical journey and tap into his creative process.
Learn To Manipulate Vocal Samples: Techniques & Tools
Step-by-step instructions on manipulating vocal samples using pitch correction, harmonization, and layering techniques to improve your music production.
How to Stop Overthinking and Finally Finish Your Track
Actionable tips for music producers battling with overthinking, providing strategies to set clear goals, embrace imperfections, limit choices, and more, aimed at helping you finish and release your music.
Acid Breaks: Reviving '90s Grooves in Modern Tracks
Explore the revival of Acid Breaks, blending '90s rave culture with contemporary music production. Learn advanced sample manipulation techniques and get tips for creating your own Acid Break tracks. This blog post covers everything from the basics of Acid Breaks to advanced production strategies.
The Secret Synth Settings Behind Top 40 Hits
This article explores the specific synthesizer techniques and production strategies used in some of the most popular Top 40 hits, offering a detailed look at the presets, modulation, and layering methods that have defined contemporary music.
Overcoming Gear Envy: Making Music with Limited Resources
We tackle the challenge faced by many beginner music producers: creating high-quality music without expensive gear. Inspiring stories of producers who've achieved success with minimal setups and practical tips show how to maximize limited resources to produce great music.
3 Reasons Why Your Mix Isn't Working (Beginners Guide)
This blog post explores three critical reasons why your mix might not be working— EQ, layering, and the "less is more" principle — with practical solutions and examples to help beginners improve their mixing skills.
The Enduring Legacy of French House Music
This blog post examines the rise of French House music in the mid-1990s, exploring its key characteristics, influential pioneers, and enduring legacy in reshaping the electronic dance music landscape.
Trap Music Making: Samples, Drum Loops, and Mixing Techniques
This guide helps producers improve their trap music productions. Explore trap music samples, from drum loops to sound packs, and learn how to select and utilize the best trap drum kits.
Looperman vs Sample Focus: Which One's Best For You?
Choosing the right sample library is key for your music productions. This comparison between Sample Focus and Looperman provides insights into everything you need to make an informed choice. Discover which one is best for you.