Finding the perfect samples for your music: a modern guide
In today's digital age, sampling has become an essential part of music production. It allows you to add unique flavours and influences to your tracks, making them stand out from the crowd. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, knowing how to find the right samples can take your music to the next level. In this article, we'll explore some simple ways to discover amazing samples for your next project.
Online Crate Digging
Back in the day, producers would spend hours digging through physical records to find the perfect sample. While this is still a fun way to find unique sounds, the internet has made it much easier. Websites like Discogs and eBay let you browse and buy records from the comfort of your own home. You can also use resources like WhoSampled to see what songs your favourite artists have sampled for inspiration.
If you want to avoid any legal issues with sampling, try using sample libraries like Splice Sounds. They offer millions of royalty-free samples that you can use in your music without worrying about copyright problems. Plus, their new Rare Finds feature lets you discover hidden gems that most users haven't found yet.
Think Outside the Box
Samples don't just have to come from other songs. You can find inspiration in all sorts of places, like video games, TV shows, and movies. For example, artists like BTS and Skrillex have used video game sound effects in their tracks. Midwest emo bands are known for sampling dialogue from movies and TV shows. You can even use historic speeches or recordings to add depth and meaning to your music.
Capture the World Around You
One of the best ways to create truly unique samples is to record them yourself. Grab a portable recorder or use your phone's mic to capture interesting sounds while you're out and about. You might be surprised at how many cool sounds you can find just by walking around your neighbourhood. You can also get creative with household objects - try hitting pots and pans, shaking boxes of rice, or tapping on glass bottles to create your own percussion sounds.
In conclusion, finding the perfect samples for your music is all about being creative and exploring different sources. Whether you're digging through online record stores, sampling unexpected sources, or capturing sounds from the world around you, there are endless possibilities for discovering unique and inspiring samples. So get out there and start exploring - your next big hit could be just a sample away!
Source: How to Find Samples For Your Music