Trap EDM is a subgenre of electronic dance music that has become very popular in recent years. It combines the heavy bass and rhythms of trap music with the melodic and synthesized sounds of electronic dance music (EDM). Whether you are a beginner or an experienced producer, learning how to make trap EDM can be an exciting and rewarding experience. This article will guide you through the process of creating your own trap EDM music, from the basics to more advanced techniques.
What is Trap EDM?
Trap EDM is a fusion of two distinct styles: trap music and EDM. Trap music originated in the early 2000s, taking influence from Southern hip-hop, with its distinct 808 bass, hi-hats, and aggressive beats. EDM, on the other hand, is a broad genre that includes various subgenres such as house, dubstep, and techno. Trap EDM combines the hard-hitting bass and fast-paced rhythms of trap with the melodic, high-energy elements of EDM.
The Basics of Trap EDM
The key elements of trap EDM are the bass, drums, and melody. The bass is often deep and powerful, creating a solid foundation for the track. The drums are characterized by fast, syncopated rhythms, often using hi-hats and snares. The melodies are typically catchy and may include synthesizers, vocal chops, or sampled sounds. The combination of these elements creates a high-energy, club-ready track that is both aggressive and melodic.
Getting Started with Trap EDM Production
Before you begin making trap EDM, you will need the right tools and software. Here is a list of the essential equipment and software you will need:
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): A DAW is essential for creating music. Popular DAWs for trap EDM production include Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro.
Synthesizers: Trap EDM relies heavily on synthesized sounds. Some great virtual synthesizers for trap music include Serum, Massive, and Sylenth1.
Samples: You can use drum samples, vocal chops, and effects to enhance your track. Websites like Splice and Loopmasters offer high-quality trap and EDM samples.
Audio Interface: An audio interface allows you to connect your equipment to your computer for recording and mixing. Popular models include Focusrite Scarlett and PreSonus AudioBox.
Creating the Beat: The Foundation of Trap EDM
The first step in making trap EDM is to create the beat. The beat is the foundation of the track and sets the tempo and mood. Trap beats are typically fast, with a tempo ranging from 130 to 150 BPM (beats per minute). Here’s how to create a basic trap beat:
Step 1: Choose the Right Drum Kit
The drums are the most important part of trap EDM. You’ll need to select a drum kit that fits the style of trap. The most common sounds used in trap are the 808 bass, snares, claps, and hi-hats. Many DAWs come with built-in drum kits, or you can download high-quality drum kits from online sources.
Step 2: Create the Kick Drum Pattern
The kick drum is the driving force behind the beat. In trap, the kick drum often hits on the first and third beats of the bar, but it can also be used more creatively to add complexity to the rhythm. Use your DAW to program a simple kick drum pattern and experiment with variations to add more energy to the track.
Step 3: Add the Snare and Hi-Hats
The snare is typically placed on the second and fourth beats of the bar, while the hi-hats provide the fast-paced, syncopated rhythm that is characteristic of trap. You can experiment with different hi-hat patterns, adding rolls or triplets to create a more complex groove.
Step 4: Layer the 808 Bass
The 808 bass is a signature element of trap music. To create a punchy 808 bass, use a synthesizer like Serum or Massive. The bass should hit hard and resonate through the track. You can layer the 808 with a kick drum for added impact, but be careful not to overwhelm the mix.
Building the Melody and Harmony
Once you have the basic beat, it’s time to add the melody and harmony. Trap EDM melodies are often simple but catchy, with a focus on rhythm and emotion. You can use a variety of sounds for the melody, including synthesizers, vocal chops, and effects.
Step 1: Choose the Right Synthesizer Sound
The synthesizer sound you choose will set the tone for your track. For a more aggressive feel, use harsh, distorted sounds. For a more melodic approach, use smooth, ethereal pads or plucks. Play around with different sounds until you find the one that fits your track.
Step 2: Create a Simple Melody
Trap melodies are often short and repetitive, creating a catchy hook that sticks in the listener’s head. Start by creating a simple melody using your synthesizer, focusing on rhythm and phrasing. You can use minor scales to give your melody a darker, more emotional feel.
Step 3: Add Harmony and Chords
Once you have the melody, it’s time to add harmony and chords. In trap EDM, the harmony is often minimal, with just a few chords supporting the melody. Use your synthesizer to add atmospheric chords or pads that complement the melody and add depth to the track.
Adding Effects and Transitions
Trap EDM often includes a variety of effects and transitions to create energy and movement throughout the track. Here are some tips for adding effects:
Step 1: Use Risers and Sweeps
Risers and sweeps are great for building anticipation and creating smooth transitions between sections of your track. Use automation to gradually increase the volume or pitch of the riser, creating tension before the drop.
Step 2: Add Vocal Chops
Vocal chops are a popular element in trap EDM. You can use vocal samples or record your own vocals and chop them up to create rhythmic patterns. Experiment with different chops and effects like reverb and delay to make the vocals more dynamic.
Step 3: Apply Reverb and Delay
Reverb and delay are essential for creating space and atmosphere in trap EDM. Use reverb to add depth to your sounds, and apply delay to create movement and rhythm. Be careful not to overuse these effects, as they can muddy the mix if applied too heavily.
Mixing and Mastering Your Track
After you have created all the elements of your trap EDM track, it’s time to mix and master it. Mixing involves adjusting the levels of each sound, applying EQ, and adding effects to create a balanced and polished sound. Mastering is the final step in the process, where you prepare your track for release by making sure it sounds great on all systems.
Step 1: Adjust Levels and EQ
Start by adjusting the levels of each element in your track. Make sure the bass, drums, and melody are all balanced and not competing with each other. Use EQ to carve out space for each element, cutting unnecessary frequencies and boosting the ones that need to stand out.
Step 2: Apply Compression
Compression helps control the dynamics of your track and ensures that the sound is consistent throughout. Apply gentle compression to the drums and bass to keep them tight, and use a bus compressor to glue the track together.
Step 3: Master the Track
Mastering involves making your track sound as polished and professional as possible. Use a limiter to maximize the volume without causing distortion, and apply final touches like stereo widening or harmonic excitement to enhance the track.
Conclusion
Creating trap EDM is a fun and creative process that requires the right tools, knowledge, and practice. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can start making your own trap EDM tracks from scratch. Remember to experiment with different sounds, rhythms, and effects to find your unique style. With dedication and creativity, you can create high-energy, club-ready trap EDM that will captivate your audience.
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