What is the best way to make rap beats?
There is no one “best” way to make rap beats, as different producers and artists have their own unique methods and styles. However, here are some general tips that may help:
- Familiarize yourself with rap beats: Listen to a variety of rap beats to get a sense of the different styles and sounds. Pay attention to the drum patterns, melody, and overall vibe of the beat.
- Choose your software: You can use a digital audio workstation (DAW) such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro to create your beats. Choose one that works well for you and that you are comfortable using.
- Start with a basic drum pattern: Start by creating a simple drum pattern using a kick drum, snare drum, and hi-hat. Once you have a basic rhythm, you can add other percussion elements and build on them.
- Create a melody: Use a keyboard or a virtual instrument to create a melody for your beat. Experiment with different sounds and chord progressions until you find something that works.
- Add effects: Use effects such as reverb, delay, and distortion to add depth and texture to your beat.
- Arrange your beat: Once you have all the elements of your beat, arrange them in a way that makes sense. Consider adding different sections such as a chorus, verse, and bridge.
- Mix and master your beat: Use mixing and mastering techniques to balance the levels of each instrument and create a polished final product.
Remember, the most important thing is to experiment and have fun with the process. Don’t be afraid to try new things and push the boundaries of what you think a rap beat should sound like.
If you’re ready to take your rap beats to the next level, we’ve got the best tips and tricks for you right here. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced producer, we can help you take your beats to the next level.
With the right tools and techniques, you can make beats that sound just as good as the ones on your favorite album. Learn how to produce top-notch rap beats with BestMusically today.
Read on to discover how easy it is to make your very own professional-sounding rap beat music!
Let’s get into it!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links and we may earn a small commission when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
How to Make Rap Beats For Beginners
For beginners, making rap beats can be difficult, especially if you’re not sure what software or hardware to use.
Not everyone is a beat-making genius like Dr. Dre, so it’s understandable that you might be feeling lost when it comes to making your rap beats. You don’t want to end up with a subpar track because of a mistake in the production process.
BestMusically is here to help. In this article, we compare computer software and hardware options for making the best-sounding rap beats possible. With our tips and tricks, you’ll be on your way to creating studio-quality tracks in no time!
Is hardware or software better for making rap beats?
Both hardware and software can be used to make rap beats, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.
Hardware, such as drum machines, samplers, and synthesizers, can offer a more tactile and hands-on approach to beat-making. These devices often have unique sounds and features that may be difficult to replicate with software.
However, they can be expensive and may require additional equipment, such as a mixer or audio interface, to integrate into your setup.
Software, on the other hand, offers a more affordable and versatile option for making rap beats. With a digital audio workstation (DAW) and plugins, you can emulate a wide range of sounds and styles, and have access to a virtually unlimited number of tracks and effects.
Many popular producers and beat-makers use software exclusively to create their beats.
In the end, the choice between hardware and software depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some artists may prefer the physicality and character of hardware, while others may prefer the flexibility and convenience of software.
Ultimately, the key is to choose the tools that work best for you and your creative process.
Rap Beats Software
When it comes to making beats, many new and seasoned producers are starting to make the shift toward software. Why would they do that? Simple – software brings more to the table, both in terms of flexibility and workflow.
Many new producers looking to jump into the game often have a tough time deciding what is better – a rap beat maker program or a hardware workstation. While they each have their different pros and cons, it really boils down to what makes you feel the most comfortable (and ultimately the most productive).
Rap Beats Software vs. Hardware
So, it’s time to break down the major differences between software and hardware, as well as highlight the pros and cons of each. If you’re at a crossroads in determining what type of rap beatmaker you need, this should help settle the score and move you in the right direction.
Hardware – The Good and the Bad.
When it comes to making beats, some people have the urge to be more “hands-on”. They need to feel the music they make, and pounding away at keys and slamming drum pads gives them the ability to become a part of that music by playing it out naturally.
AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play MK3 – MIDI Keyboard Controller
In hip-hop, the hardware runs deep. The first line of MPCs (such as the MPC60), as well as keyboards like the infamous ASR-10, set the pace and changed the hip-hop beat game completely (other popular hardware workstations include the Roland Phantom, Korg Triton, and Yamaha Motif as well).
Anyone familiar with either beatmaker knows the power that each of them holds.
With that said, check out the small list below outlining the different pros and cons of using hardware as your primary rap beat maker:
Pros.
– Vintage sounds that you can’t find anywhere else (or are tough to recreate).
– The feel that you get (hands-on music production).
– Solid timing.
Cons.
– Low memory that limits sampling capabilities.
– Limited amount of onboard sounds. Purchasing more expansion boards is your only option to expand your sound range, which means you have to lay down more cash.
– Poor or limited sequencing and arrangement features.
– Typically expensive. The more you need, the more you will spend (we’re talking about spending thousands, not hundreds).
Software – Good vs. Bad.
The software has grown popular over the years and has changed the way many people produce and create music today. In fact, using the software as a rap beatmaker has become more of the norm.
New producers on a limited budget are finding it easier to start making beats and producing music with nothing more than their computer, beat-making software, and a creative mind!
PreSonus AudioBox Studio with Headphones, Microphone, Mic Cable, USB Cable, and StudioOne Artist Software (Download)
There are a number of different software programs available for music production. You might be familiar with popular programs like FL Studio and Reason (which are great but can still be pricey for some), as well as other similar programs like DubTurbo.
We put together a list of our Top 10 favorite FREE rap beats software programs for 2023.
With all of that said, let me quickly break down the benefits (as well as the downsides) of using software:
Pros.
– Since the software uses the hard drive on your computer for memory, your memory power is limited only to the size of your hard drive(s). This means room for as many sounds and effects as you want!
– Unlimited amount of options for plug-ins and expansion.
– All-in-one solution (sequencing, mixing, programming).
– Costs much less than most hardware yet can achieve similar results (or better).
– Easy to update and maintain.
– It doesn’t require any external pieces for operation – just your computer (however, you can use midi controllers to play keys and drums to get that “feel”).
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 – 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Backlit Drum Pads, 8 Knobs and Music Production Software included (Black)
Cons.
– Not as mobile as hardware (unless you want to lug your PC around).
– Quality poses a minor issue and may not be as good as some hardware workstations.
– Higher-end software performance can be poor if not using a high-end PC.
How To Make Rap Beats On iPhone
If you’re a rapper or hip-hop artist, chances are you’ve got an iPhone. And if you’ve got an iPhone, you can make some pretty sick beats using the built-in Voice Memos app. In the video tutorial below you’ll learn how to create fantastic rap beats.
So open up your iPhone and let’s get started!
How To Make Beats On GarageBand
If you’re a rap or hip-hop musician looking to create beats on GarageBand, you’re in luck. In the video below you’ll see how to make a beat in just a few minutes using GarageBand’s built-in instruments and effects.
So fire up GarageBand and let’s get started!
Final Thoughts
As you can see, using either hardware or software has its benefits and downsides. The truth is, the best way to make rap beats can be achieved by going either route, so it is ultimately up to you to decide. Now that you are aware of some of the differences and similarities, you should be capable of deciding what is best for you.
For our recommended beat-making software programs, be sure to check out our 2023 article on The Best Beat-Making Software for Beginners: 10 Free Programs for Rap Musicians on PC & Mac.
Happy Playing!
