In this blog I will be talking about the production process behind the work of RZA. During the workshop the class learned how to use an Akai Sampler, putting together some drumbeat samples from the Wu-Tang Clan. Unfortunately, I was not there for this workshop as I was ill, however I tried to experiment with the drum samples on my own using Logic Quick Sampler insert and the Wu-Tang Clan drum samples.
When using Quick Sampler in Logic you drag the audio file into the insert and it gives you the option to process it as either “Original” or “Optimized”. I have used the optimized option as it made it possible to change the pitch on the sample depending on the note that I am triggering on the MIDI keyboard. I have used one of the hi-hat samples, two kicks and one snare to create my own drum pattern in the style of RZA. Then I proceeded to add in more layers to the drumbeat using the Retro Synth insert, recreating the sound of the melody in the song C.R.E.A.M. from the album “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)”. This is a song that I know really well and have listened to many times so it wasn’t difficult to navigate the process of creating a piece of music influenced by it. I then mixed the tracks using EQ and compression, doubled the synth part to pan it afterwards and added a little bit of room reverb to it for a smoother sound.
I don’t think that my production was high quality because of the lack of complexity on it, however I still think that it was clear that I was trying to imitate RZA’s production and overall sound.
I think that the approach to production through the influence of existing producers work is quite helpful for a solid start for new creators of music because it makes it easier to learn new techniques of working with sound composition as well as learning how to navigate yourself through working with tools such as samplers, synthesis, sound effects and live recording, developing the “music recycling” approach to production. I would consider this a great way of practicing before moving to exploring your own style, as it may take off some of the pressure of not knowing where to start when composing a song of your own.
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