How to master your beat production skills using unconventional techniques, tips, and tricks

As a music producer, one of the most important things you can do is to learn how to make beats that sound unique and fresh. There are a number of ways you can achieve this, but one of the most effective is to use unconventional techniques, tips, and tricks.

Here are 15 unconventional beat production techniques that will help you take your skills to the next level:

1. Use atypical time signatures

One way to create interesting and unique beats is to experiment with atypical time signatures. Instead of sticking to 4/4 or 3/4 time, try using odd time signatures like 5/4 or 7/8. This will instantly make your beats sound more complex and interesting.

2. Incorporate unusual sounds

Another great way to make your beats stand out is to incorporate unusual sounds. This could be anything from field recordings to Foley effects. Get creative and see what sort of unique textures you can add to your beats.

3. Mess with the tempo

Tempo is another important element that you can play around with to create interesting and unique beats. Instead of sticking to a standard tempo, try speeding things up or slowing them down. This will give your beats a whole new feel.

4. Use unexpected samples

Samples are a great way to add interest and uniqueness to your beats. Instead of using the same old drum loops, try finding some unconventional samples to work with. This could be anything from found sound recordings to snippets of dialogue.

5. Try out different genres

Another great way to make your beats sound unique is to experiment with different genres. Instead of always making hip-hop beats, try making some dubstep or house tracks. This will help you develop your skills and expand your sonic palette.

6. Layer different sounds

One of the best ways to create interesting and unique beats is to layer different sounds on top of each other. This could be anything from drums to synths to samples. By layering different sounds, you can create complex and textured beats that will stand out from the crowd.

7. Get creative with EQing

EQ is a powerful tool that you can use to shape the sound of your beats. Instead of using the standard EQ presets, get creative and experiment with different EQ settings. This will help you sculpt your sound in unique ways.

8. Use sidechain compression

Sidechain compression is a great way to add interest and excitement to your beats. By using a compressor to sidechain a kick drum to a bassline, you can create a pumping effect that will make your beats sound more dynamic.

9. Experiment with reverb

Reverb is another powerful tool that you can use to shape the sound of your beats. By experimenting with different reverb settings, you can create everything from small room ambiance to huge stadium-sized echoes.

10. Try out different delays

Delay is another great effects processor that you can use to add interest and uniqueness to your beats. By experimenting with different delay settings, you can create anything from subtle echoes to full-on psychedelic sounds capes.

11. Mess with the filters

Filters are a great way to shape the sound of your beats. By playing around with the cutoff and resonance settings, you can create a wide range of sounds, from mellow and smooth to harsh and distorted.

12. Use automation

Automation is a great way to add movement and interest to your beats. By automating the parameters of your effects processors, you can create evolving sounds capes that will keep listeners engaged.

13. Get creative with sampling

Sampling is a great way to add unique elements to your beats. Instead of using the same old drum loops, try finding some interesting samples to work with. This could be anything from field recordings to snippets of dialogue.

14. Use a click track

A click track is a great way to keep your beats tight and in time. By using a click track, you can make sure that all of your beats are perfectly in sync, which will give your tracks a professional sound.

15. Experiment with different plugins

There are a wide range of plugins available that can help you create unique and interesting beats. By experimenting with different plugins, you can find the perfect sound for your tracks.

Conclusion:

By following these tips, you can make your beats sound unique and interesting. By experimenting with different techniques and sounds, you can create tracks that will stand out from the crowd.