In this piece, we’re going to be addressing a few questions about hip hop (or another urban music genre) drum samples. These questions are often posed on the most popular music production and beat making forums, and the range of answers provided is sometimes disturbing. Getting correct and unbiased opinions can be a difficult feat this in day and age, with e-rep so prevalent in forums and online communities. The music production communities are not exempt from this observation. Let’s begin!
First Question: Do I need to buy drum samples? The answer to this question is a plain no. In some cases, you may wish to opt for paid-for drum samples, but many producers have started out great with just stock sounds and instruments, and some even continue to do so to this day. So while samples can be purchases both online and offline, you probably have some good sounds right in front of you!
If you know your way around your music sequencer and have some knowledge when it comes to effectively applying compression, equalization, and other effects like delay and such, you can certainly end up making your own drum samples; a folder of go-to samples that you can come back to time after time for many different projects – both for yourself and for clients if you have a business. Having a folder like this will serve you well in times of need, like when you need to add some finishing touches. You won’t need to search through hundreds of samples.
Question 2: Can I Use Dance Sounds for Gangster Rap? Yes, you most certainly can. There are no differences in the samples that can be used for hip-hop with those used for dance music. There are, however, rules about the arrangements. Everything else being the same, a pattern with the kick on every beat will immediately spell dance music, while hip hop is a little bit more flexible when it comes to using drum samples in different arrangements.
Speaking on the patterns, you can learn some patterns by listening to your favorite artists and trying to replicate what is going in their songs rhythmically. Compare the different styles and find common elements, and then try to expand on those to make your own style out of this. You can also find some great free MIDI loops on the internet by performing a Google search.
Question 3: Why are some drum samples louder than others? The reason that some samples are louder than others is the same reason why some songs are louder than others. It is scientific fact that we take more notice of things that are bigger and louder, and this stretches to music production as well. It’s the same reason why TV ads are louder than the programs they are interrupting. If advertisers have spent billions on the research, you’ve got it laid out for you already. This is why some sample companies will use compressors and limiters to maximize volume without clipping because you will take notice. Even if the samples aren’t as good or well-sculpted as others, you will for some reason like them more and be more impressed. So don’t take notice of just volume but listen beyond the level.
If you want to start to make hip hop beats, consider getting some professional rap drum samples first. These sounds will inspire you to create cool grooves.