Essential Guide for Novice Music Producers: Understanding Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
Modern Beats: Your Ultimate Guide to Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
EDM, short for electronic dance music, is a genre you've likely heard everywhere - from mainstream radio to your aunt's birthday bash. But, what makes a tune EDM?
You'll bump into EDM at parties, on the radio, and nowadays, probably even at your cousin Eddie's bar mitzvah (though he might call it 'EDM Music'). To put it simply, EDM is any music that's produced electronically, featuring instruments like synthesizers, drum machines, and samples.
What sets EDM apart is its danceable and distinct electronic nature. It is characterized by precision, a full sound, and loudness. Unlike acoustic genres, which require tons of engineering to sound clear, electronic production gives you full creative control over every second of a track.
However, some argue that electronic and dance music are different genres since not all electronic music is made for the dancefloor. Nevertheless, EDM remains one of the main umbrella genres, like rock, jazz or hip-hop.
From Musique Concrete to Tomorrowland - EDM Through the Ages
Music concrete, a French term for musical collage using samples of recorded sounds, laid the groundwork for EDM in the 1940s and 50s. Early synthesizers then became a staple in this type of music.
In the 80s, house music emerged with Chicago's club scene, setting the stage for subgenres like techno, trance, and drum and bass. In the 90s, EDM transitioned from analogue equipment to computers, making it more accessible to producers and increasing the number of subgenres popping up every day.
Deep into the Rabbit Hole - EDM Subgenres Explained
Popular EDM subgenres include future bass, big room house, hybrid trap, dubstep, electronic pop, and future house, characterized by rapid innovation and influences from artists like Martin Garrix, Skrillex, and Diplo. However, there are numerous others, like deep house, trance, hardstyle, and garage.
If you have a desired style in mind, choosing a rough genre to fit into can help guide your production. But remember, it's essential to leave room for creativity and make your unique imprint on the style you choose.
Is EDM Just Commercial Music?
The modern debate in the electronic music community is whether EDM only refers to popular, radio-friendly tracks or encompasses all electronic dance music. Some argue that EDM is a handy way to summarize any electronic music suitable for dancing. In reality, if it's electronic and danced to, it's EDM.
Setting Up Your Studio - minimum viable setup
Most electronic dance music is made using a computer, digital audio workstations (DAWs), samples, and good education. A computer isn't much more than a canvas for music production, and the best tools are likely ones you already have.
Learning resources are crucial for effective music production, whether it's through online courses, books, or academic institutions. Taking the time to learn guitar chords doesn't guarantee you'll become the next Jimi Hendrix, but proper education will help you on your journey to becoming a skilled electronic music producer.
So, are you ready to jumpstart your EDM career? Sign up for our free video training to get started the smart way and avoid months of confusion and frustration. Let's create the next chart-topping hit together!
Electronic music production, as part of the large and diverse music industry, offers an avenue to create exciting new sounds for entertainment, such as in the realm of electronic dance music (EDM). For instance, producers can experiment with various subgenres like future bass, big room house, or deep house, showcasing their unique creativity within this realm.
With the right setup, including a computer, digital audio workstations, samples, and quality education, aspiring electronic music producers can kickstart their careers, aiming for success in the world of EDM entertainment.
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