Outsider house music, also known as lo-fi house or DIY house, is a subgenre of electronic dance music that emerged in the 2010s. Characterized by its DIY ethos, outsider house music often features rough-around-the-edges production, distorted sounds, and a general disregard for traditional music industry norms. This genre is all about embracing imperfections and creating a sense of raw, unbridled energy.
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The Roots of Outsider House
Outsider house music has its roots in the early days of house music, particularly in the 1980s Chicago scene. Artists like Ron Hardy and Larry Levan experimented with DIY production techniques, creating a sense of raw, unpolished energy that would later influence the outsider house movement. The genre also draws inspiration from punk rock's DIY ethos, as well as the avant-garde and experimental music scenes.
Key Characteristics of Outsider House Songs
So, what makes an outsider house song? Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind:
- Distorted, fuzzy sounds: Outsider house music often features heavily distorted basslines, drums, and synths. This creates a sense of grit and texture that's central to the genre.
- Lo-fi production: Outsider house producers often use low-fidelity equipment, such as cassette tapes or cheap software plugins, to create a sense of rough-around-the-edges production.
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- Unconventional song structures: Outsider house songs often abandon traditional verse-chorus-verse song structures in favor of more experimental, free-form arrangements.
- Emphasis on atmosphere: Outsider house music is often more about creating a mood or atmosphere than it is about crafting catchy hooks or melodies.
Choosing the Right Equipment
One of the key aspects of outsider house music is its DIY ethos. You don't need a fancy studio or expensive equipment to start producing outsider house tracks. Here are some essential tools to get you started:
- A digital audio workstation (DAW): You can use free or low-cost DAWs like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or GarageBand to produce outsider house tracks.
- A MIDI keyboard or controller: This will allow you to create and manipulate sounds within your DAW.
- A synthesizer or drum machine: You can use virtual plugins or hardware synthesizers/drum machines to create the distinctive sounds of outsider house music.
- Distortion pedals or plugins: These will help you achieve the fuzzy, distorted sounds that are central to the genre.
Creating a Beat
The beat is the backbone of any outsider house track. Here are some tips for creating a killer beat:
- Keep it simple: Outsider house beats are often minimalist and repetitive. Focus on creating a hypnotic groove that draws the listener in.
- Experiment with unusual time signatures: Outsider house music often features unconventional time signatures, such as 3/4 or 5/4. This can add a sense of tension and unpredictability to your tracks.
- Use found sounds: Incorporate found sounds, such as field recordings or samples from obscure vinyl records, to add texture and interest to your beats.
Adding Melodies and Harmonies
Once you've got a solid beat, it's time to start adding melodies and harmonies. Here are some tips:
- Keep it simple: Outsider house melodies are often simple, repetitive, and haunting. Focus on creating a sense of atmosphere rather than crafting complex melodies.
- Use unconventional scales: Outsider house music often features unconventional scales and modes, such as the pentatonic or chromatic scales. This can add a sense of tension and unpredictability to your melodies.
- Experiment with dissonance: Outsider house music often features dissonant harmonies and melodies. Don't be afraid to push the boundaries of traditional harmony and create something truly unsettling.
Adding Vocals or Samples
Vocals and samples can add an extra layer of depth and interest to your outsider house tracks. Here are some tips:
- Keep it minimal: Outsider house vocals are often minimal and repetitive. Focus on creating a sense of atmosphere rather than crafting complex lyrics.
- Use found vocals: Incorporate found vocals, such as samples from obscure vinyl records or YouTube videos, to add a sense of texture and interest to your tracks.
- Experiment with vocal processing: Use distortion pedals, reverb, and delay to create a sense of distance and unease in your vocals.
Mixing and Mastering Your Track
Once you've got a solid track, it's time to start mixing and mastering. Here are some tips:
- Keep it loud: Outsider house music is often loud and in-your-face. Don't be afraid to push the levels and create a sense of sonic overload.
- Use EQ to create space: Use EQ to create space in your mix and separate different elements. This is particularly important in outsider house music, where the mix can often get cluttered and busy.
- Experiment with compression: Compression can help to create a sense of tension and release in your tracks. Experiment with different compression settings to find the right balance for your music.
Releasing Your Music
Finally, it's time to release your music to the world. Here are some tips:
- Use online platforms: Websites like Bandcamp, SoundCloud, and YouTube are great platforms for releasing outsider house music. They offer a DIY ethos and a sense of community that's perfect for the genre.
- Create a visual aesthetic: Outsider house music often features a strong visual aesthetic, from the artwork to the music videos. Create a visual identity that reflects the mood and atmosphere of your music.
- Engage with the community: Outsider house music is all about community and collaboration. Engage with other producers, DJs, and fans to build a following and get your music heard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Outsider House music and how does it differ from other genres?
Outsider House is a subgenre of electronic dance music that emerged in the 2010s. It's characterized by its DIY ethos, lo-fi production quality, and often unconventional sounds. Outsider House artists often reject the polished, commercial sound of mainstream electronic music, instead embracing a more raw and experimental approach. This genre is all about pushing boundaries and challenging the norms of traditional house music.
What kind of equipment do I need to start producing Outsider House tracks?
You don't need a fancy studio or expensive gear to start producing Outsider House music. In fact, many artists in this genre use low-cost, vintage, or even broken equipment to create their unique sound. You can start with a digital audio workstation (DAW) like Ableton Live or FL Studio, and then experiment with plugins, synthesizers, and drum machines. Don't be afraid to get creative and repurpose everyday objects as instruments!
How do I develop my own unique sound in Outsider House?
Developing your own unique sound in Outsider House is all about experimentation and taking risks. Don't be afraid to try new things, even if they don't work out. Experiment with different synthesizers, effects pedals, and recording techniques to create a sound that's truly yours. Draw inspiration from other genres, like punk, krautrock, or noise music, and incorporate those influences into your Outsider House tracks.
What's the typical tempo and time signature for Outsider House tracks?
Outsider House tracks can vary in tempo and time signature, but they often fall between 100-120 BPM. You'll also find that many Outsider House tracks are in 4/4 time, but don't be afraid to experiment with unusual time signatures or polyrhythms to create a more complex, off-kilter sound.
How do I create a compelling melody in Outsider House?
Creating a compelling melody in Outsider House is all about simplicity and repetition. Use simple, haunting melodies that repeat and evolve over time. Experiment with microtonal tuning, detuned synthesizers, or even found sounds to create a more unusual, Outsider House-inspired melody.
What role does percussion play in Outsider House music?
Percussion is a crucial element in Outsider House music, often providing the driving force behind the track. Use a combination of drum machines, sampled percussion, and found sounds to create a unique, offbeat rhythm. Don't be afraid to experiment with unconventional percussion sources, like household objects or industrial machinery.
How do I use effects pedals in Outsider House production?
Effects pedals can be a powerful tool in Outsider House production, allowing you to create a wide range of unusual, distorted sounds. Experiment with pedals like the Roland RE-201 Space Echo, the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi, or the Death by Audio Echo Dream to create a unique, lo-fi sound.
What's the best way to structure an Outsider House track?
Outsider House tracks often reject traditional song structures, instead opting for a more free-form, improvisational approach. Start with a simple idea or riff, and then build upon it over time. Use repetition, variation, and surprise to create a sense of tension and release.
How do I create a sense of atmosphere in my Outsider House tracks?
Creating a sense of atmosphere in Outsider House is all about using sound design and texture to evoke a particular mood or feeling. Experiment with ambient pads, found sounds, and field recordings to create a sense of space and atmosphere. Use reverb, delay, and distortion to enhance the sense of depth and distance.
What's the importance of sampling in Outsider House music?
Sampling plays a crucial role in Outsider House music, allowing artists to incorporate found sounds, spoken word, and other unconventional elements into their tracks. Use sampling to add texture, interest, and surprise to your tracks, and don't be afraid to experiment with unusual sources, like YouTube videos, podcasts, or even your own voice.
How do I balance the levels in my Outsider House mix?
Balancing the levels in an Outsider House mix can be challenging, especially when working with unconventional sounds and instrumentation. Start by setting your levels to a comfortable range, and then experiment with EQ and compression to create a sense of balance and clarity. Don't be afraid to push the levels to the extreme, creating a sense of tension and release.
What's the best way to master an Outsider House track?
Mastering an Outsider House track is all about enhancing the unique characteristics of your music, rather than trying to fit into a particular mold. Use mastering to bring out the detail and texture in your track, and to create a sense of depth and space. Experiment with different mastering techniques, like parallel compression or stereo widening, to create a more unusual, Outsider House-inspired sound.
How do I promote my Outsider House music online?
Promoting your Outsider House music online can be challenging, but there are many resources available to help you get started. Use social media platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, and Instagram to share your music and connect with other artists and fans. Create a strong online presence, with a professional website and consistent branding, to help you stand out in a crowded scene.
What's the best way to collaborate with other Outsider House artists?
Collaborating with other Outsider House artists can be a great way to learn new techniques, gain exposure, and create something truly unique. Start by reaching out to other artists online, through platforms like Facebook groups or Reddit forums. Use collaboration as an opportunity to experiment with new sounds and techniques, and to push the boundaries of what's possible in Outsider House music.
How do I create a live show for my Outsider House music?
Creating a live show for your Outsider House music can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Start by developing a unique visual aesthetic, using lighting, video, and props to create an immersive atmosphere. Experiment with different live instrumentation, like synthesizers, drum machines, or even found objects, to create a more dynamic, interactive performance.
What's the best way to engage with the Outsider House community?
Engaging with the Outsider House community can be a great way to learn from other artists, get feedback on your music, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments. Use online forums, social media groups, and local meetups to connect with other artists and fans. Attend Outsider House events, like festivals and club nights, to experience the music firsthand and network with other artists.
How do I stay inspired and motivated as an Outsider House artist?
Staying inspired and motivated as an Outsider House artist can be challenging, especially when working in a niche genre. Use experimentation and risk-taking to keep your music fresh and exciting. Draw inspiration from other genres, like punk, krautrock, or noise music, and incorporate those influences into your Outsider House tracks. Take breaks, collaborate with other artists, and stay open to new ideas and techniques to avoid burnout.
What's the future of Outsider House music?
The future of Outsider House music is bright, with a growing community of artists and fans around the world. As the genre continues to evolve, we can expect to see new and innovative sounds, techniques, and styles emerging. With its DIY ethos and rejection of commercialism, Outsider House is well-positioned to remain a vibrant, underground force in the music world.
How do I get my Outsider House music signed to a label?
Getting your Outsider House music signed to a label can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Research labels that are interested in Outsider House music, like Not Not Fun or Opal Tapes, and submit your demos or EPs for consideration. Use social media and online platforms to promote your music and build a following, making you a more attractive prospect for labels. Network with other artists and industry professionals to get your foot in the door.
What's the best way to monetize my Outsider House music?
Monetizing your Outsider House music can be challenging, but there are many options available. Use online platforms like Bandcamp or iTunes to sell your music directly to fans. Offer merchandise, like T-shirts or vinyl, to supplement your income. Consider licensing your music for use in films, TV shows, or commercials, or use your music to score live events or installations. Use crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or Patreon to fund your music projects and build a loyal fanbase.
How do I balance creativity with commercial viability in Outsider House music?
Balancing creativity with commercial viability in Outsider House music can be challenging, but it's essential to stay true to your artistic vision. Don't compromise your sound or style to appeal to a wider audience, instead focus on building a loyal fanbase that appreciates your unique approach. Use your creativity to find innovative ways to promote your music and engage with your audience, rather than trying to fit into a commercial mold.
What's the most important thing to keep in mind when writing Outsider House songs?
The most important thing to keep in mind when writing Outsider House songs is to stay true to your artistic vision and creative instincts. Don't be afraid to take risks, experiment with new sounds and techniques, and push the boundaries of what's possible in the genre. Remember, Outsider House is all about challenging the norms and rejecting commercialism, so stay focused on creating something truly unique and innovative.
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