Choosing the Perfect Beat for Your Rap Songs on YouTube: Tips and Tricks

Creating a hit rap song on YouTube starts with the perfect beat. Whether you are a seasoned producer or a new artist, finding the right beat can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore the key steps in choosing the perfect beat for your rap songs, from programming to fine-tuning your rap to the beat.

Programming Beats in Your DAW

When you're ready to start creating your rap beats, the first step is to program them in your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). You can use a MIDI keyboard or your mouse to input notes into a MIDI piano roll. This process is an important part of your songwriting process and should reflect your originality rather than just copying existing beats.

Setting the Tempo

The tempo of your song is another crucial element that you can set in your DAW. Most DAWs allow you to tap the tempo directly on your keyboard, making it easy to set for the entire song. Finding the right tempo can enhance the beat's energy and make it more engaging for your audience.

Experiencing Beats: The Non-Musician's Perspective

When you listen to your beats, it’s important to incorporate feedback from non-musicians who are familiar with hip-hop. Most people who listen to hip-hop have an innate ability to pick out the strongest beats, including elements like the bassline, sub-bass, and distinctive elements like the steel drum in P.I.M.P., which is one of the most powerful and memorable beats ever to my ears and feet.

Fine-Tuning Your Rap to the Beat

Once you have the strongest beat, it’s time to fine-tune your rap to fit it perfectly. This might involve experimenting with different raps, getting someone to sing part of it as a breakdown, or tweaking the beat's elements to improve the flow and feel of the song. Be confident in your decisions, and don’t be afraid to make changes based on what works best for the overall song.

Getting Feedback and Sharing Your Music

After you’ve put in all the work, it’s important to share your music with others. Consider creating a new album to showcase your latest raps and beats. For example, my next album, 'Fire Dog Fire,' is set to release on March 23rd, 2023. If you enjoy my music, subscribe to my YouTube channel and share it with your friends to help it reach a wider audience.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect beat for your rap songs is a crucial step in creating a hit on YouTube. By programming your beats, setting the right tempo, and experimenting with feedback from non-musicians, you can create a strong foundation for your raps. With confidence and a bit of experimentation, you can fine-tune your rap to the perfect beat and make your music stand out.

Your turn: What’s your favorite rap beat? Share it in the comments below and let’s discuss it!

NHugs, 3WK!