Before diving into the process of writing a future bass song, it's essential to understand the core elements that define this genre. Future bass is a subgenre of electronic dance music that originated in the 2010s, characterized by its dreamy, atmospheric soundscapes, heavy use of synthesizers, and often, a blend of organic and electronic elements. To write a compelling future bass song, you'll need to familiarize yourself with the typical tempo, time signature, chord progressions, and instrumentation commonly used in this genre.
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How to Write Future Bass Songs Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Tempo and Time Signature
Building a Solid Chord Progression
Working with Drums and Percussion
Choosing the Right Tempo and Time Signature
Future bass tracks typically range from 100 to 128 BPM, with 110-115 BPM being a sweet spot for many producers. In terms of time signature, 4/4 is the most common, but you may also experiment with 2-step or halftime rhythms to add some variation to your track. When selecting a tempo and time signature, consider the energy and mood you want to convey in your song. A faster tempo can create a more energetic and uplifting vibe, while a slower tempo can produce a more relaxed and atmospheric feel.
Creating a Memorable Melody
A catchy melody is crucial in future bass music. To craft a memorable melody, focus on creating simple, yet emotive and repetitive phrases that can be layered and manipulated throughout your track. Experiment with different scales, modes, and melodic patterns to find a unique sound. You can also draw inspiration from other genres, such as indie electronic or chillout music, to add some freshness to your melody. Don't be afraid to use automation and effects to enhance your melody and make it more engaging.
Building a Solid Chord Progression
A future bass chord progression typically features a combination of minor and major chords, often with a focus on the I, V, and vi chords. You can also experiment with suspended chords, seventh chords, and other extended chords to add depth and interest to your progression. When building your chord progression, consider the emotional arc of your song and how you want to guide the listener through the different sections. A good chord progression should provide a sense of tension and release, as well as create a sense of anticipation and surprise.
Designing Your Sound Palette
In future bass music, the sound palette is often characterized by lush, atmospheric pads, plucky synthesizers, and deep, rumbling basses. To create a unique sound palette, experiment with different synthesizers, such as Serum, Massive, or Sylenth2, and explore various sound design techniques, like layering, filtering, and processing. Don't be afraid to get creative and push the boundaries of what's considered "normal" in future bass production. You can also incorporate organic elements, like guitars, pianos, or vocal samples, to add some warmth and humanity to your sound.
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Structuring Your Track
A typical future bass track follows a intro-verse-drop-bridge-outro structure, but you can experiment with different arrangements to create a more unique and engaging listening experience. When structuring your track, consider the energy and tension you want to build throughout the song. A good intro should set the tone and establish the main theme, while the verse should develop the idea and add some variation. The drop should be the most energetic and climactic part of the track, and the bridge should provide a sense of contrast and surprise. Finally, the outro should bring the song to a satisfying conclusion and leave the listener with a lasting impression.
Working with Drums and Percussion
In future bass music, drums and percussion play a crucial role in driving the energy and rhythm of the track. To create a compelling drum pattern, focus on using a combination of deep, punchy kicks, snappy snares, and crisp hi-hats. Experiment with different rhythmic patterns, such as sidechaining or using ghost notes, to add some interest and texture to your drum pattern. Don't forget to add some percussion elements, like tambourines, shakers, or cymbals, to enhance the overall rhythm and energy of your track.
Adding Vocal Elements (Optional)
While future bass music often features instrumental tracks, adding vocal elements can elevate your song and make it more engaging and memorable. When working with vocals, consider the tone and style of the vocalist, as well as the lyrical content and message. You can use vocals as a focal point, or as a subtle texture to add some depth and atmosphere to your track. Experiment with different vocal processing techniques, like reverb, delay, and distortion, to create a unique and captivating sound.
Final Tips and Tricks
When writing a future bass song, remember to stay focused, patient, and open-minded. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things, and don't be too hard on yourself if your track doesn't come together immediately. Take breaks, revisit your work, and make adjustments as needed. Also, don't forget to reference other tracks in the genre and analyze what makes them successful. Finally, have fun and enjoy the creative process – it's all about expressing yourself and bringing your vision to life!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Future Bass and how does it differ from other genres?
Future Bass is a subgenre of electronic dance music characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers, deep basslines, and often, atmospheric soundscapes. It differs from other genres like Trap and Dubstep in its focus on melodic elements and a more relaxed, atmospheric vibe. Think Flume, San Holo, and ODESZA – those are the kind of artists who have helped shape the sound of Future Bass.
Do I need to be a skilled producer to write a Future Bass song?
Not necessarily! While having production skills can certainly help, the core of writing a Future Bass song lies in the composition and melody. You can always collaborate with a producer or learn the basics of production to bring your ideas to life. Focus on crafting a compelling melody, harmony, and rhythm, and then worry about the production aspects later.
What kind of equipment do I need to write a Future Bass song?
You don't need a fancy studio or expensive gear to get started. A digital audio workstation (DAW) like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro X is essential, along with a MIDI keyboard or controller. You can also use virtual instruments and plugins to create your sounds. If you're just starting out, you can even use online tools like Soundtrap or Audiotool to get started.
How do I come up with a catchy melody for my Future Bass song?
Start by experimenting with different scales and modes. Future Bass often employs the minor scale, particularly the Aeolian and Phrygian modes. Use a MIDI keyboard or controller to improvise and find melodies that resonate with you. You can also draw inspiration from other genres, like pop or indie rock, and adapt them to the Future Bass sound.
What's the typical structure of a Future Bass song?
A typical Future Bass song follows a verse-chorus-drop-bridge-drop structure. The verse sets the mood, the chorus introduces the main melody, the drop is the climax, and the bridge provides a contrasting section before the final drop. However, feel free to experiment and create your own unique structure!
How do I create a deep, rumbling bassline?
A deep, rumbling bassline is essential in Future Bass. Use a sine wave or a sawtooth wave as the basis for your bass sound, and then experiment with different filters and effects to create movement and interest. Don't be afraid to layer multiple bass sounds to create a thick, heavy sound.
What kind of drum patterns work well in Future Bass?
Future Bass drum patterns often feature a mix of quarter notes and eighth notes, with a focus on the snare drum on beats 2 and 4. Experiment with different rhythms and patterns to create a unique feel. You can also incorporate percussion elements like shakers, tambourines, or hi-hats to add texture and interest.
How do I use reverb and delay in my Future Bass song?
Reverb and delay are essential effects in Future Bass, used to create a sense of space and atmosphere. Use reverb to add width and depth to your sounds, and delay to create a sense of movement and rhythm. Experiment with different types of reverb and delay, such as plate, hall, or tape delay, to find the right sound for your track.
What's the role of the drop in a Future Bass song?
The drop is the climax of your Future Bass song, where the energy peaks and the melody and rhythm come together. It's often the most memorable part of the song, so make sure to craft a compelling melody and rhythm that will stick in listeners' heads.
How do I create a build-up to the drop?
A good build-up creates tension and anticipation before the drop. Use a combination of rising melodies, filtered percussion, and increasing energy to create a sense of anticipation. You can also use automation to gradually increase the volume, filter cutoff, or other parameters to create a sense of build-up.
What kind of sounds work well in a Future Bass song?
Future Bass often incorporates a wide range of sounds, from lush, atmospheric pads to bright, plucky synths. Experiment with different timbres and textures to create a unique sound. You can also incorporate found sounds, like vocal samples or field recordings, to add interest and depth.
How do I use sidechaining in my Future Bass song?
Sidechaining is a technique used to create a "pumping" or "breathing" effect by ducking the volume of one sound in response to another. In Future Bass, sidechaining is often used to create a sense of movement and energy. Use a compressor to duck the volume of a sound in response to the kick drum, for example, to create a dynamic and engaging rhythm.
What's the importance of arrangement in a Future Bass song?
Arrangement is crucial in Future Bass, as it determines the flow and pacing of your song. Experiment with different arrangements to create a sense of tension and release, and to guide the listener through the song. Don't be afraid to try out different ideas and see what works best for your track.
How do I create a memorable hook in my Future Bass song?
A memorable hook is essential in Future Bass, as it's often the most catchy and memorable part of the song. Focus on creating a simple, yet effective melody that sticks in listeners' heads. Use repetition and variation to create a sense of familiarity and surprise.
What's the role of the bridge in a Future Bass song?
The bridge provides a contrasting section that breaks up the repetition of the verse and chorus. Use the bridge to introduce new ideas, timbres, or rhythms that add variety and interest to your song. It's also a great opportunity to create a sense of surprise or tension before the final drop.
How do I use automation in my Future Bass song?
Automation is a powerful tool in Future Bass, used to create dynamic and engaging rhythms. Use automation to control parameters like volume, filter cutoff, or pitch to create a sense of movement and interest. You can also use automation to create subtle changes in tone and texture that add depth and complexity to your song.
What kind of vocal processing works well in Future Bass?
Future Bass often incorporates heavily processed vocals, using techniques like pitch-shifting, time-stretching, and reverb to create a sense of atmosphere and space. Experiment with different vocal processing techniques to find the right sound for your track.
How do I create a sense of tension and release in my Future Bass song?
Tension and release are essential elements in Future Bass, used to create a sense of drama and energy. Use a combination of rising melodies, increasing energy, and dramatic pauses to create a sense of tension, and then release it with a drop or a climactic moment.
What's the importance of mixing and mastering in Future Bass?
Mixing and mastering are crucial in Future Bass, as they determine the overall sound and balance of your track. Use EQ, compression, and other effects to create a balanced mix, and then master your track to ensure it translates well to different playback systems.
How do I stay inspired and creative when writing a Future Bass song?
Stay inspired by listening to a wide range of music, from different genres and styles. Experiment with new sounds, techniques, and ideas to keep your creative juices flowing. Don't be afraid to take breaks and come back to your track with fresh ears.
What's the best way to collaborate with other producers or musicians on a Future Bass song?
Collaboration is a great way to bring new ideas and perspectives to your Future Bass song. Communicate clearly with your collaborators, share your vision and goals, and be open to feedback and suggestions. Use online tools like file-sharing platforms or video conferencing software to make collaboration easier and more efficient.
How do I know when my Future Bass song is finished?
You'll know your Future Bass song is finished when you've achieved the sound and feel you envisioned. Take a step back, listen to your track objectively, and ask yourself if it meets your goals. Make any final tweaks or adjustments, and then consider your track complete!
What's the best way to promote my Future Bass song?
Promote your Future Bass song through social media, online music platforms, and music blogs. Reach out to influencers, DJs, and other producers in the Future Bass community to get feedback and support. Use online tools like SoundCloud, YouTube, and Instagram to share your music and connect with your audience.
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