Selecting drum samples is a crucial process for music composers who rely heavily on drums in their compositions. Choosing drum samples is an art form in itself, akin to creating music. Almost all types of music typically feature drum beats. If you examine the top 50 songs on the Billboard charts, the music compositions often showcase various drum beats.
A song is evaluated based on the strongest and weakest elements present in the entire composition. Experts claim that the quality of a specific track is determined by its weakest component. This could also apply to the ending, beginning, and intervals between singing different stanzas. The variations in music should complement the singer’s voice rather than the other way around. This is why many top music directors place great importance on drum beats. In hip-hop music, drum beats follow a specific pattern without much variation, and lyrics are built upon the rhythm.
Jazz is another genre of music that heavily relies on drum beats for the overall musical performance. Unlike rock music, the sound from drums must be very clear in jazz music.
Electronically produced music can sometimes lack coherence and may resemble a recorded public performance. Live samples need to be refined, and proper use of common filters present in the drums should be implemented. Consider seeking the advice of experienced drum artists and observe the types of samples they choose. Your sound banks should be diverse, which will enhance your existing collection of drum samples. Experimentation in every style of music is essential, as this is what defines creative individuals.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME