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Boombap is a subgenre of hip-hop known for its hard-hitting beats and authentic sound. This technique is often employed in production using an MPC (Music Production Controller), where drums become a crucial element. This article will guide you on creating various drum variations in the boombap style, including steps for using kick, snare, and hi-hats.
Kick
Basic Kick: The kick (bass drum) is the foundational element of any boombap beat. Place the kick on the first beat of the bar (1.1.1) and on the third beat of the bar (1.3.1).
Space Kick: To create space between kicks, use a kick on the first beat and then skip the second beat, creating rhythmic contrast. For example, kick on (1.1.1) and another kick on (1.3.1).
Double Kick: For added dynamics and complexity, add another kick immediately after the first. Place the second kick, for example, on (1.1.1) and (1.1.2).
Kick Snare Combo: Combine the kick with the snare for a fuller sound. Place the kick on (1.1.1) and the snare on (1.2.1) or (1.4.1).
Snare
Basic Snare: The snare drum is another essential element of a boombap beat. It is typically placed on the second and fourth beats of the bar (1.2.1 and 1.4.1).
Space Snare: To create variation, leave some beats without a snare. For example, snare on (1.2.1) and skip (1.4.1).
Double Snare: Adding a second snare immediately after the first can create an echo effect. For example, snare on (1.2.1) and (1.2.2).
Snare Kick Combo: The reverse of the kick snare combo. Place the snare on (1.2.1) and the kick immediately after on (1.2.2).
Hi-hats
Hi-hats provide the beat with tempo and groove. They can be simple or complex, depending on the sound you want to achieve.
Basic Hi-hats: Place hi-hats on every sixteenth note for a constant rhythm. For example, hi-hats on (1.1.1), (1.1.2), (1.1.3), and (1.1.4).
Space Hi-hats: For more dynamics, skip some hits. For example, hi-hats on (1.1.1), (1.1.3), and (1.1.4).
Swing Hi-hats: Add swing by shifting some hits off the grid. For example, hi-hats on (1.1.1), (1.1.3), and a shifted hit on (1.1.4+).
Boombap Pattern Examples
Pattern 1: Basic Boombap
- Kick: (1.1.1), (1.3.1)
- Snare: (1.2.1), (1.4.1)
- Hi-hats: Every sixteenth note
Pattern 2: Space Variation
- Kick: (1.1.1), (1.3.1)
- Snare: (1.2.1)
- Hi-hats: (1.1.1), (1.1.3), (1.1.4)
Pattern 3: Double Kick and Snare
- Kick: (1.1.1), (1.1.2), (1.3.1)
- Snare: (1.2.1), (1.2.2), (1.4.1)
- Hi-hats: Every sixteenth note
Tips for Working with MPC
Quantization: Use quantization to ensure all hits align perfectly with the beat. For boombap, a common setting is sixteenth notes with a slight swing.
Layering Sounds: Combine different layers of sounds for a richer drum sound. For example, layering two different kicks or snares.
Effects: Use effects like reverb and delay on individual sounds to create space and depth in the beat.
Mastering the boombap technique for drums on MPC takes time and practice, but with these basic steps and examples, you'll be well on your way to creating authentic boombap beats. Experiment with different variations and don't hesitate to explore new sounds and rhythms.
Best regards, MaiconBeat-Production