Music Production Blog

M4A vs MP3: Which Format is Better For Music Production?

M4A and MP3 files are widely used in the world of music production.    They both offer the ability to compress audio files for easier storage and sharing while still maintaining a level of quality that fits different musical needs.    Plus, they have the ability to stream efficiently across various platforms 一 making them […]

The 16 Best Budget Microphones for Artists & Producers 2024

As an artist, singer, or producer, a good microphone can completely change the game.    It can help you capture the subtle nuances of your voice or instrument, elevate the quality of your recordings, and provide the clarity needed to stand out.   Plus, being able to rely on a solid microphone means you can […]

What is Music Publishing? Super Helpful Artist’s Guide 2024

Ah, the dreaded music publishing topic… As an artist or producer, you have to be able to answer the question, “What is music publishing?” in order to protect your rights.   As well as maximize your earnings and make sure your tracks are always properly credited and paid for (which is super important).   Understanding […]

FL Studio Piano Roll 101: Best Features & Key Functions

FL Studio arguably has the best piano roll out of all other DAWs when it comes to flexibility, user-friendly design, and the number of features it offers.    It can handle everything from basic note placement to complex automation 一 helping you create professional-grade tracks with ease.    Plus, it allows you to tweak, perfect […]

Vocal Chain 101: Creating Captivating Vocals in Your Mix

Vocal chains take your raw vocal recordings and transform them into polished, professional-sounding tracks that stand out in any mix.    They control dynamics, shape tone, and add the depth and character that make vocals truly shine.    Plus, a perfect vocal chain helps you eliminate harsh frequencies, manage sibilance, and help you make sure […]

28 Electronic Music Genres That Spark Unstoppable Creativity

EDM (Electronic Dance Music) is a vague term that describes all of the electronic music genres that we know and love.    But, did you ever wonder the difference between them all?…   Well, you’re in luck, because we’re breaking down all of the most popular electronic music genres that have dominated dance clubs/music festivals […]

What is the Melody of a Song 101 (Become a Master of Melody)

Melodies in a song are really the heartbeat of music because they have the power to captivate listeners, evoke various emotions, and bring your songs to life.   Plus, they make sure your tracks are memorable and engaging 一 standing out over the competition, which is key since things are so competitive in our field. […]

How to Make Ambient Music That is Super Immersive (2024)

Ambient music is super versatile… It’s atmospheric, evolving, and rich with texture.   This makes it the perfect genre to dive into if you want to create immersive soundscapes that really captivate listeners.    As a producer, learning how to make ambient music can really expand your creative palette and open up new ways to […]

How to Become a Mixing Engineer In a Competitive Field 101

Mixing engineers are the unsung heroes of music production if I’m being honest.   They’re super meticulous and detail-oriented, with an ear that’s finely tuned to every tiny nuance in a track (which is very rare).   Plus, they know how to blend, balance, and polish audio elements all day long 一 transforming raw recordings […]

How to Use MIDI Controllers Like a True Expert + 5 Pro Tips

MIDI controllers are game-changers in the world of music production that can seriously streamline your workflow and help bring your ideas to life.   Plus, with the right setup, you’re able to control your DAW, trigger samples, and manipulate sounds like a professional.    As a producer, MIDI controllers are really the backbone of your […]

How to Transpose Music 101 & Achieve Flawless Key Shifts

Transposing music is a great skill that every musician and producer should master.   It can help you tweak songs to different vocal ranges, align your music with various instruments, and even give your tracks a fresh, unique sound.    Plus, it allows your music to really shine in any key and can help make […]

Vocal Comping 101: The Ultimate Guide to Polished, Cohesive Vocals

Vocal comping is all about taking the best parts of multiple vocal takes and seamlessly blending them into one perfect vocal track.    Plus, making sure that each vocal phrase is aligned and consistent to make sure your entire song sounds polished and professional.    As a producer, knowing all about vocal comping is super […]

What is a Downbeat 101: Discover the Secret to Power Rhythms

Downbeats are the backbone of any musical rhythm.   They set the tone, establish the groove, and provide the structure that keeps a song moving forward (in turn, keeping people interested).   Plus, understanding downbeats can help you create more compelling rhythms and keep your tracks sounding on point and professional.    As a producer […]

15 Top VST Plugins To Completely Revolutionize Your Beats

VST (virtual studio technology) plugins have the power to completely change your production game.    They can transform ordinary tracks into professional-grade productions and enhance your creativity by offering endless sound design possibilities.   Plus, streamline your workflow to help you produce faster, of course.   As well as help you fine-tune every element of […]

How to Tell What Key a Song is in (10 Proven Methods + Tips)

Learning how to tell what key a song is in can be a little tricky at first.    You have to develop a good ear, understand the fundamentals of music theory, and make sure you’re familiar with various chord progressions and scales.    However, once you nail down your unique method, you’ll be on autopilot.  […]

Top 8 Acoustic Drum Sets That Are Perfect For Beginners 2024

Acoustic drum sets can really be the foundation of a drummer’s journey, especially for beginners.    However, deciding which ones are worth your investment and which ones might let you down can be super frustrating.    Luckily for you, we’ve done the hard work and are breaking down the 8 best acoustic drum sets (by […]

What are Time Signatures in Music & How To Master Them 101

Time signatures can shape the groove, set the pace, and guide the overall feel/vibe of your music.    They help you structure your beats per measure (BPM) and decide which note values to use for each beat.    As a producer, knowing all about different time signatures will seriously up your game by giving you […]

How to Add Plugins to Logic Pro X in 6 Super Simple Steps

As a producer, plugins are everything, that’s a fact, so, if you’re a new Logic Pro X user, then learning how to add plugins to Logic Pro X is key.    Whether you’re looking to expand your library with new virtual instruments or enhance your mixes with cutting-edge effects, mastering this process is essential.    […]

What is a Metronome? Ultimate Guide to Perfect Rhythm 2024

A metronome can help you keep a steady beat and maintain the correct tempo while playing or recording music (live or digitally).   It provides a consistent clicking sound or visual cue, making it much easier to stay on track and play in sync with other musicians, tracks, or whatever you’re laying down.   Whether […]

Pitch in Music 101: Why is It Important in Production?

Pitch in music refers to how high or low a sound is perceived, and is super important for creating melodies, harmonies, and overall musical structure.    It also helps ensure that all notes and instruments in a track are in tune.    Yes, even if you’re a digital producer (which most of you are), understanding […]

Learn How to Play a Synthesizer Online (Top 4 Best Options)

Learning how to play a synthesizer online can be super beneficial because it provides a convenient way to explore and create music without needing physical equipment.    Which, let’s be honest, is sometimes a little pricey.   You can easily access various features and tools that help enhance your sound and production skills as a […]

Album vs EP 101: Key Differences & Proven Strategies (2024)

Albums and EPs are both essential formats for releasing music and can seriously impact your music career (both positively and negatively).   As an artist, understanding all of the differences between an album and an EP can seriously influence your success and make sure you don’t flop.   You have to be strategic and consider […]

Top 12 Music Apps That Are Still Making Waves in 2024

Music apps are undoubtedly essential tools for music lovers and creators alike.    They offer a diverse range of features, from streaming and downloading music to discovering new artists and creating personalized playlists.    As a producer or artist, knowing the top music apps can help you reach a wider audience and stay updated with […]

Top 9 Sites For Epic FREE Sound Effects (All Super Legit)

Free sound effects are key if you’re looking to elevate your music production, video projects, or game design without breaking the bank.    However, with so many free options available, it can be overwhelming to even know where to start 一 nobody has time for that, am I right?   Luckily, we’ve done all that […]

Ghost Production 101: What Exactly is it & How Do I Become One?

Ghost production is a rapidly growing aspect of the music industry, pretty much taking over the music scene underground.   It’s getting super popular because it allows artists to maintain a consistent release schedule without producing every track themselves.    As a producer, knowing all about ghost production is essential.    It can help you […]

Logic vs GarageBand 2024: Is The Upgrade Truly Worth It?

Logic Pro X and GarageBand are both incredibly popular digital audio workstations (DAWs) designed for Mac users.    While one is a professional-grade software used by many top producers, the other is a free, user-friendly option that comes pre-installed on all Mac computers.    The big question I’ve been getting lately is, “Should I upgrade […]

Using ADSR Envelopes For Super Creative Sound Design (2024)

ADSR envelopes are essential tools in sound design that can shape the volume, character, and dynamics of a sound.   It can help you create expressive and unique audio elements so your tracks stand out and sound professional.   As a producer, knowing all about ADSR envelopes will completely transform your music production skills and […]

How To Create Energetic Breakbeats That Shutdown Clubs 101

Breakbeats are the backbone of many electronic and hip-hop tracks.    They can inject energy, groove, and a vintage sound into your music to help make your tracks stand out above the competition.    As an electronic or hip-hop producer, knowing all about breakbeats can seriously elevate your production skills and make your beats unforgettable.  […]

Best Free Audio Recording Software For Artists (2024)

Recording audio is at the heart of most music production projects.   It needs to be high-quality, reliable, and versatile enough to handle various recording needs 一 whether it’s for music, podcasts, or any other type of audio content.    As a producer or artist, finding the best free audio recording software is super important, […]

23 Most Epic Hip Hop Samples EVER (50th Anniversary Edition)

Hip-hop samples have completely transformed the landscape of music production.    From their inception back in the late ’70s and early ’80s to how we’ve flipped them around today, they’re timeless 一 no doubt about it.   As a producer, using hip hop samples can completely elevate your tracks, adding depth, texture, and a touch […]

The 9 Best Music Business Courses For Ultimate Knowledge

Breaking into the music business requires you to master a variety of skills and have some key knowledge.   You need to understand how to market yourself and your music, manage finances, negotiate contracts, and navigate the ever-changing industry landscape.    Plus, since it’s such a competitive field, you’ll need to stay ahead of trends […]

FL Studio vs GarageBand: Which App Is Better For Beginners?

Hey guys, for a long time people have been asking us to write an FL Studio vs Garageband app article, so worry no more, we’ve got your back.   FL Studio and GarageBand both have super solid apps with standout features and unique capabilities.    The FL Studio app is renowned for its flexibility and […]

14 Best Waves Plugins in The Industry (+ Free Alternative)

Waves plugins are undoubtedly some of the best tools available for music production.    They include top-notch EQs, compressors, and effects in the game.    Plus, they’re all incredibly user-friendly and versatile.    They can help you with everything from mixing and mastering to vocal processing and sound design.    But which Waves plugins should […]

9 Dramatic Chord Progressions to Create Powerful Tracks

Dramatic chord progressions are super important in music production because they can add depth and emotion to your songs that people really respond to.   Plus, they create a sense of tension and resolution that keeps listeners engaged throughout the entire track.   This will help your songs stand out and connect with your audience […]

How to Secure Music Producer Internships Over the Ops (2024)

Music producer internships are super beneficial, but they can be a little bit tricky to lock down, especially if you don’t have a formal education.   You’ll need to stand out from the crowd, demonstrate your unique skills, and show your passion for music (which is key).   Plus, be able to network effectively, showcase […]

What is Swing in Music 101: Capture the Energetic Swing Vibe

Swing music is the heartbeat of jazz, famous for its infectious rhythms and captivating grooves that people love.   It is a style that emerged during the swing era and continues to influence modern music, from jazz to pop and beyond.    As an artist or producer, knowing all about swing music can seriously elevate […]

What is a Melody & How Do I Create Amazing Melodies? 2024

Melodies are the heart and soul of songwriting and production, capturing your listeners attention and bringing powerful emotions to the table.   Plus, they help your tracks really stand out, resonate, and stick in the listener’s mind.    As an artist or producer, you’ll need to know all about melodies in order to knock out […]

How to Know if Your Music is Good & Powerful Enough (2024)

If you’re a new artist looking to break into the industry and make a name for yourself, it’s super important to know how good your music really is.   It needs to really stand out and outshine your competition, resonate with your audience, and meet industry standards.   That’s why in today’s article, we’re breaking […]

How to Make an Album Cover that is Proven To Stand Out 2024

Creating an album cover is super important for grabbing attention and visually representing your music, vibe, and brand.   Your album cover art needs to be eye-catching, professional, and reflective of your style.    Plus, it should be versatile enough to look great on streaming platforms and in physical form if applicable.   That’s why […]

What is a Backbeat? The Proven Guide to Epic Grooves (2024)

A backbeat is a key element in music that provides the driving force behind many of the songs we know and love.    It emphasizes the second and fourth beats of a measure, creating a show-stopping groove that makes listeners want to move.    As a music producer, knowing all about backbeats can help you […]

The Phrygian Dominant Scale 101: Master This Exotic Scale

The Phrygian dominant scale is one of the most captivating and exotic musical scales you can incorporate into your music production.    It features a unique sequence of intervals and is made up of a root, half-step, augmented second, whole step, half-step, whole step, half-step, and whole step.    As a music producer, incorporating this […]

Average Music Producer Salary in 2024 (+ Awesome Tips)

If you’re a music producer in today’s competitive industry, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into.    Are you going to earn a comfortable living doing what you love, or end up struggling to make ends meet?    Well, that’s exactly why we’re breaking down the average music producer salary at the time […]

Spotify Royalties: Your Ultimate Guide to Big Profits (2024)

If you’re an artist, knowing all about Spotify royalties is super important.    It can help you maximize your earnings and understand how your music generates revenue on the platform.   Being aware of the latest updates ensures you’re not left behind in this ever-evolving (and fast-paced) music industry.    Plus, with all the recent […]

9 Downtempo Chord Progressions For Epic, Powerful LoFi Vibes

Downtempo chord progressions can be the heart of any ambient or lo-fi track 一 setting the mood, creating the atmosphere, and bringing out emotions.    Plus, they have the power to add depth/space and make your music feel way more immersive.   As a lo-fi music producer, it’s important to know how to create these […]

Demo Submission Dos & Don’ts in 2024 (From Top Experts)

Submitting a demo submission to record labels can be a little tricky.    You have to make sure your music stands out while following each label’s specific guidelines without overwhelming or annoying them.    If you submit your demo incorrectly or unprofessionally, it could end up being ignored or deleted, and you might even get […]

The 12 Best Plugins For Hip Hop Production (2024’s Best)

If you’re a hip hop producer, I’m sure you can agree, plugins are everything.    However, with all the whack plugins out there, it can get a little difficult to find the ones that truly elevate your sound.    Plus, you never know if a plugin will deliver the quality you need or just end […]

Ionian Mode 101: Ultimate Producer’s Guide Uplifting Tracks

The Ionian mode is a fundamental building block of music, known for its bright and uplifting sound.    It is the first of the seven musical modes and identical to the major scale.    Mastering the Ionian mode can help you create epic melodies, harmonies, and chord progressions that really draw people in.   So, […]

How to Add Plugins to FL Studio in 7 Super Simple Steps

Plugins are undoubtedly one of the best tools you have as a producer.    And, if you’re wondering how to add plugins to FL Studio, you came to the right place, because in today’s article, we’re breaking down the process step by step.    This way, you can easily expand your sound library and get […]

75+ Ableton Shortcuts That Will Save You SERIOUS Time

Ableton Live shortcuts are essential tools for any producer 一 saving you significant time and helping to keep that creative momentum going.   Plus, being able to navigate quickly and efficiently will seriously enhance your overall production experience.    That’s why we’re breaking down the most beneficial Ableton shortcuts, including:   General commands ✓ Navigation […]

The 6 Best MIDI Drum Kits For Legendary Production (2024)

MIDI drum kits are a game-changer for producers, helping you to get flexible and creative when you’re laying down drum patterns.   They help you achieve professional-quality sounds and enhance your tracks, making them stand out and dominate the competition.   However, with countless options on the market, finding the best kits can be a […]

Best Online Music Production Lessons of 2024 (All-Inclusive)

As a music producer, music lessons are absolutely essential.    They can help you refine your skills, expand your creativity, and enhance your production techniques.   Plus, if you take full advantage of them, you’ll be able to create polished tracks and develop a unique sound.    That’s why we’re breaking down the top 9 […]

FL Studio vs Pro Tools: Which One Should Be Crowned in 2024?

FL Studio (aka Fruity Loops) and Pro Tools are both iconic digital audio workstations (DAWs) that have made huge impacts in the world of music production.    One DAW is renowned for its intuitive workflow and powerful MIDI capabilities, while the other is celebrated as the industry standard in professional recording studios.    But, when […]

Diatonic Scale 101: Theory Essentials For Inspired Producers

A diatonic scale is a sequence of seven notes connected by a specific pattern of whole and half steps.   It consists of a combination of five whole steps and two half steps 一 creating a foundation that is essential in Western music.    As a music producer, understanding all about diatonic scales and diatonic […]

Effectrix 2 by Sugar Bytes: Standout Features & Secret Tips

Effectrix 2 by Sugar Bytes is an innovative plugin that reshapes the way you approach sound design in your music production.    It can help you manipulate audio with precision, and unlock endless creative possibilities through its epic effects and modulators.    Plus, if you really know what you’re doing, you can tweak and twist […]

Relative Minor & Relative Major Scales 101 (+ Useful Tips)

Relative minor and relative major scales are essential tools in music production.   They each have their own characteristics and roles, as well as the power to shape the emotional tone of your music.    That’s why, in today’s article, we’ll be breaking down:   Major scale basics ✓ What is a relative minor ✓ […]

Free DAW Software: Top 11 Mind-Blowing DAWs You NEED in 2024

DAWs are basically your home away from home as a producer.    Choosing the right one gets a little difficult, especially if you’re looking for a free option that doesn’t suck.    That’s why we’re breaking down the absolute best free DAW software for 2024.    Each unique free digital audio workstation contains everything you […]

7 Sad Chord Progressions That Instantly Get People Invested

Sad chord progressions are some of the most impactful and intriguing elements in music (and music production).   They can bring out deep emotions and make people really connect with the music on a profound level.    That’s why, as a producer, knowing the most emotionally-powered sad chord progressions is super beneficial.    With them, […]

Ultimate Guide to Making Money in Music (34 Proven Ways!)

Making money in music, despite what you may hear, is certainly not impossible. If you know the right ways, that is.    Today, we’re breaking down 34 proven ways to make money in the music industry so you can elevate your music career and achieve financial success.    As a musician, artist, or producer, the […]

What is a Dynamic Microphone & Condenser Microphone? Top 18

Dynamic and condenser microphones are both essential tools to have in your arsenal, each with unique strengths and applications.    One is perfect for handling high sound pressure levels and capturing loud sound sources with durability.    The other excels in detailed sound reproduction and sensitivity, making it ideal for studio settings and capturing every […]

Audio Bitrate 101: Understanding Audio Quality & File Size

Audio bitrate is a key concept in digital audio that every music producer needs to understand.   It’s important to grasp how bitrate affects audio quality and file size, and how to choose the right bitrate and optimize it for different situations.   As a producer, you’ll need to know everything about audio bitrate.   […]