Ultimate Music Inspiration Guide For Music Producers Top 24

Music inspiration 一 the age-old mystery for every creator. 

It comes and goes as it pleases, leaving you either in the zone or stuck in an endless loop of beat-block. 

As music producers, finding musical inspiration and breaking free from that creative slump can completely transform your workflow, breathing life into your projects. 

Plus, when you’re constantly generating fresh ideas, the quality and originality of your music production soar to new levels.

That’s why we’re breaking down the most effective techniques in the game, like:

• Limiting yourself to one plugin ✓
• Creating tracks with only stock sounds ✓
• Experimenting with tape loops ✓
• Switch up your genre ✓
• Play around with different sound design techniques ✓
• Remixing old tracks for a fresh twist ✓
• Using field recordings for texture ✓
• Randomizing plugin settings ✓
• Layering unconventional sounds ✓
• Challenging yourself different instruments ✓
• Many more music inspiration ideas ✓

After this article, you’ll be armed with the tools to have music inspiration all day, every day, no matter what kind of creative slump you find yourself in. 

From pushing boundaries with new sounds and working with restrictions to discovering creative breakthroughs through collaborations, you’ll be able to unlock your genius.

Plus, make sure to explore these techniques in your own workflow, and don’t shy away from combining them to push your music production to the next level. 

This way, you can successfully break through any creative block and consistently craft great music like a true professional.

Music Inspiration Ideas, Tips & Killer Techniques

Finish this: Being a music producer can get a little overwhelming when you’re feeling uninspired. That’s why we’re breaking down 32 creative music inspiration ideas for you to play around with. So, let’s just jump right in…

#1. Limit Yourself to One Plugin

If you’re anything like me, you have millions of plugins at your disposal…

However, working with just one plugin can spark some serious music inspiration by limiting your choices and forcing you to dig deeper into its capabilities. 

For example, instead of using a multitude of synths, try building an entire track around just Serum (or whichever one best fits your style).

This kind of restriction enhances creativity and pushes your creative process forward, often revealing aspects of the plugin you wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. 

You can use this technique to feel more in control 一 helping you write music more efficiently and focus purely on sound design/melody.

Side note, if you want to discover the absolute best plugins in the game, we got you covered.

#2. Build a Track Using Only Stock Sounds

Another excellent way to find musical inspiration is to challenge yourself by creating a track with just your DAW’s stock sounds. 

For example, Ableton Live has a vast library of stock instruments and effects that, when used creatively, can result in complex, polished tracks. 

This eliminates the need for endless searching through sample packs and forces you to focus on key aspects of great music, like: 

• Melody combinations
• Chord progression variations
• Arrangement
• Etc.

Many producers find this type of limitation ups their creative juices and helps them feel inspired while staying within their DAW’s native tools.

It can really help you get creative and think outside of the box (and a good challenge never hurt anybody).

#3. Use Random MIDI Generators

Random MIDI generators can kickstart your music inspiration by adding an element of unpredictability to your process/workflow because they generate unexpected:

• Chords
• Melodies
• Rhythms

It’ll provide you with a solid base to build upon. 

For example, use a MIDI generator like Scaler to randomly generate chord progressions or melodies, then refine them to fit your creative work. 

This is a great way to break free from repetitive patterns and try new ideas you may not have thought of manually​.

#4. Create Music at a Different Tempo

Changing the tempo of your track can radically alter the music inspiration you draw from your project.

For example, if you’re used to working at 120 BPM, try slowing it down to 80 BPM or speeding it up to 160 BPM. 

This change forces you to reconsider your approach to rhythm, groove, and melody 一 hopefully uncovering new music styles and techniques you really vibe with.

Many music producers find that simply changing the tempo can make their songs feel entirely fresh and new, igniting their creative juices and enhancing the creative process.

#5. Try a New Genre

Playing around with a different genre from diverse cultures can be a game-changer for your music inspiration.

If you’re used to producing electronic dance music, experimenting with genres like trap, lo-fi, or even jazz can help you find inspiration in new rhythmic patterns and structures. 

I used to use this exact technique all the time when I was first starting out, and it helped me really step up my production game fast (and efficiently).

NOTE: This kind of exploration when you’re making, let’s say, dance music can lead to unexpected melodies and chord progressions that challenge your usual habits. 

Regardless of genre, it really helps you think outside of the box.

If you want to reignite your passion or break out of beat-block quickly, it can seriously motivate you in a very creative way 一 pushing the boundaries of your own music.

#6. Start with the Drums First

Building a track starting with the drums can inject fresh musical inspiration into your workflow and add a whole other level of challenge if you don’t typically start this way.

Instead of focusing on melody or harmony, begin by laying down intricate drum patterns, which can shape the entire direction of your song. 

This music inspiration idea encourages you to experiment with rhythm in a way that most artists overlook, offering new rhythmic textures.

Ones that can inspire epic different sounds and arrangements. 

Pro Tip

Once you lay down the foundation, the rest of the track often falls into place 一 making the music production process feel more natural and inspired​. And, side note, if you’re looking to explore drum MIDI, look no further.

#7. Layer Unconventional Sounds

Using unconventional sounds/sound effects is an excellent way to enhance your music inspiration and creativity in a major way.

For example, you could sample ambient noises like the hum of a fridge or birds chirping 一 layering them over your electronic music production track. 

Using filters, reverb, or EQ can help add these sounds flawlessly into your track to create a unique atmosphere that sets your music apart from the competition.

Adding unexpected elements like this can lead to breakthroughs in creativity and offer fresh perspectives on how to go about starting a new project​.

#8. Remix an Old Track

Remixing one of your unfinished tracks is a great way to uncover hidden gems and rediscover music inspiration in a super fun way.

Simply pull up an old project you abandoned months ago and strip it down to its basics. 

Then, bless it with some new sound design techniques, or introduce a completely different chord progression (whatever works).

Many producers have found that remixing old ideas allows them to finish projects they once thought were lost 一 offering musical inspiration through a fresh perspective​.

#9. Work Backwards

Starting with the end of your new song and working backward can completely transform your creative process (it might sound twisted, but just stick with me).

It forces you to think about how to build toward the climactic moments of the track, which often results in a more dynamic structure. 

If you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, this can help you break through creative blocks by shifting your focus from beginning to end. 

When you work backwards, It doesn’t only inspire new ideas but also enhances your arrangement skills

#10. Remake a Famous Track

Remaking a well-known track from scratch can be an excellent source of musical inspiration, especially when you’re striving to make a type beat.

Choose a song/project you admire, strip it down to its core elements (like the melody, bassline, and chord progression) and recreate it in your own style. 

This exercise helps you understand how great songs are structured while giving you the opportunity to add your unique sound into the project. 

You’ll find that this not only enhances your technical skills (and music theory skills) but also boosts your confidence when producing your own music.

#11. Randomize Plugins or Effects

Letting randomness into your workflow by using randomized settings in your plugins can be a pretty solid way to find some much-needed music inspiration. 

For example, you can use a synth like Serum or Massive and hit the “randomize” button on the oscillator or effects section to generate completely unexpected sounds. 

This can help you discover some killer textures or soundscapes that you might never have thought to create manually. 

Many famous producers swear by this technique as it pushes them out of their comfort zones and into new creative territory 一 inspiring fresh ideas along the way.

#12. Automate Absolutely Anything

Automation is a key tool in music production that can transform a static track into something dynamic and evolving. 

To create movement and build tension throughout your song, you can try automating parameters like:

• Volume
• Panning
• Reverb

For example, automating a filter sweep on a lead synth can give your track a sense of progression to keep your listeners engaged. 

I find that creative use of automation not only adds depth but also provides a new layer of musical inspiration, and it can help you shape your own music in a unique way.

#13. Try Different DAWs

Switching DAWs can be a great source of music inspiration… By using a different software platform, you open up new ideas for days.

Believe me, your creative process will thank you.

For instance, switching from Ableton Live to FL Studio could introduce you to different and interesting workflows that break your usual habits as a music producer. 

Experimenting with different DAWs can provide fresh opportunities for music production, and many producers find that this technique inspires them.

Especially when it comes to approaching your projects in new/unexpected ways.

#14. Mess Around with Unconventional Time Signatures

Exploring different time signatures can radically shift your music inspiration and break the monotony of 4/4 rhythms (because, let’s face it, that’s basic).

Try working in 5/4 or 7/8 for a completely different groove that challenges your usual sense of timing which can change the game for you.

This can open up new possibilities for rhythmic experimentation and help you develop more complex, interesting melodies. 

When you play around with unconventional time signatures, it’ll push you to think more creatively about how you structure your songs.

It can lead to fresh, fun, and innovative results​ that can shock even you.

#15. Use Reference Tracks

Using reference tracks is a highly effective way to boost your musical inspiration. 

Simply pick a song in the genre you’re working on (or want to work in) and analyze its complete structure, such as how it: 

• Builds tension
• Introduces instruments
• Changes dynamics
• Uses different effects
• Etc.

For example, if you’re creating a house track, check out how your favorite producer handles drops and breakdowns. 

You can use this to map out the flow of your own songs 一 making the daunting task of arrangement feel less overwhelming.

Pro Tip

Plus, bonus, it can help you enhance your music theory skills and different musical styles that you might find fit your unique vibe.

#16. Collaborate with Other Music Producers

Collaborating with other music producers or other artists is an excellent way to gain fresh perspectives and find inspiration that is pretty instant.

Working with someone else exposes you to new workflows, techniques, and ideas you may not have thought of on your own (or get enhanced by the feedback).

You could exchange unfinished projects, build on each other’s strengths, and bring a track to life in ways you wouldn’t have expected. 

Many producers find that collaboration not only boosts their music inspiration but also enhances all your creative processes for stronger final songs.

#17. Try a New Instrument

Learning or experimenting with a new instrument is another way to break free from routine and reignite your musical inspiration. 

Let’s say you’re used to producing with synths and drum machines… Picking up a guitar or even a new MIDI controller can bring different textures and melodies to the table.

This music inspiration approach adds a tactile element to your creative process 一 helping you feel more connected when you’re making music. 

When you experiment with new instruments, you’ll often discover new sounds that inspire entire projects​ and spark future inspiration when you remember about it.

#18. Build a Track Around a Vocal Sample

Starting your project with a vocal sample can give you immediate music inspiration and direction (if you’re looking for a new sample pack full of killer vocals, we got you).

Whether it’s a spoken-word clip, a chopped-up acapella, or a processed vocal line, the voice can serve as a super solid foundation for your track. 

Layering instruments and effects around the vocal often leads to interesting melodies and rhythmic patterns that help shape the song’s complete identity. 

You can use this technique to quickly develop a track’s mood 一 creating a narrative and emotional connection with the listener​ so they’re hooked.

#19. Record Improvised Sessions

Recording an improvised jam session can lead to unexpected moments of music inspiration, so just hit record in your DAW and let things ride out.

Don’t worry about perfection or structure, just roll with it and see where it takes you.

It can really add to some great ideas that people will love listening to (and hopefully add to their Spotify playlist).

Often, these spontaneous moments capture raw creativity that leads to new ideas that you can refine later.

This helps you bypass creative blocks and let your subconscious guide the music-making process.

#20. Use Only One Instrument

Restricting yourself to just one instrument forces you to push the boundaries of that sound source and discover new ways to use it for great music.

Whether it’s a synthesizer, guitar, or even a drum machine, focusing on one tool can spark innovative music production techniques you never thought of before.

For example, using only a guitar might lead you to explore rhythm patterns or effects pedals that inspire fresh ideas.

This can help you stay focused like never before and find inspiration in ways you wouldn’t normally when too many options are on the table.

#21. Create Melodies Using Your Voice

Using your voice to create a melody is a sick way to break free from traditional instruments and tap into raw music inspiration. 

Simply hum, sing, or beatbox a tune, record it on your phone or DAW, and then manipulate it with: 

• Pitch-shifting
• Effects
• Automation

Even if you’re not a vocalist, using your voice allows you to produce something organic and unique 一 directly capturing the ideas in your head. 

Many music producers use this technique to quickly develop catchy melodies or rhythmic ideas without overthinking the process.

#22. Experiment with Tape Loops

Tape loops can definitely help you add a unique, vintage feel to your music production process and inspire new directions for your songs. 

By cutting and splicing actual tape, or by using a tape loop emulator plugin (more realistic), you can create looping sections of audio with inherent imperfections.

This includes things like pitch fluctuations or warbles. 

It can introduce rhythmic or harmonic ideas you wouldn’t normally consider for an endless source of music inspiration in an instant.

People who experiment with tape loops often find that the organic, evolving nature of these loops brings a distinctive warmth and character to their creative process.

#23. Explore Sound Design

Sound design is one of my favorite subjects on this planet, and by diving deep into sound design, you can fuel your music inspiration. 

It’s probably one of the most effective ways to really step things up.

Start by experimenting with oscillators in your synth, tweaking waveforms like sine, square and other forms to generate the raw tonal quality you’re after. 

Then, layer these sounds by using filters to sculpt the frequency range…

Try low-pass filtering to smooth out harsh high-end frequencies or high-pass to bring clarity to your bass (which you can learn about here: high-pass and low-pass).

Add modulation by applying LFOs (low-frequency oscillators) to parameters like pitch or filter cutoff 一 introducing killer movement and evolving textures. 

Pro Tip

You can also manipulate sounds by using granular synthesis to chop audio into tiny grains, which you can reassemble for unique results.

#24. Create a New Song Using Only Percussion

Challenge yourself to create an entire track using only percussion elements. 

Start with a simple beat and gradually layer in different: 

• Drums
• Shakers
• Even hand claps or body hits

This music inspiration limit pushes your creativity and forces you to think about rhythm and dynamics in new ways that music inspires. 

Percussion-only tracks can help sharpen your skills in arrangement and sound design while providing an unexpected (and epic) source of musical inspiration.

Music Inspiration: Final Thoughts

Music inspiration can feel elusive… Unfortunately, it often comes in waves, leaving you energized one day and stuck in a creative block the next. 

Plus, it can sometimes disappear when you’re under pressure to meet a deadline or finish a track or just have straight up beat-block.

That’s where all the suggestions we’ve covered today come into play. 

Any (or all) of the options can help you reignite your creative flow, experiment with fresh ideas, and push your music production to the next level.

For some extra music inspiration, you have got to check out all these completely Free Sample Packs that are making major waves in the industry (for all genres/styles).

Whether you’re looking for drum samples to elevate your hip-hop beats or melodic loops to spark ideas for your next house track, these packs offer high-quality sounds.

All designed by professionals to fuel your creative fire.

These packs allow you to layer, sample, and remix like a boss 一 providing the perfect starting point when you need that extra bit of musical inspiration.

By applying the techniques we discussed and using those free sample packs, you can break out of any slump and find inspiration.

Keep pushing the boundaries, stay curious, and most importantly, let the music inspiration flow for some legendary beats.

Until next time…