This was definitely going out of my comfort zone as I never previously mixed Afrobeats for the world. It’s all fun when you are mixing in your living room or in your friend’s backyard, but Youtube.?! Yea, new league. Still, after lots of encouragement I said why not. Below I explain the process a bit for those curious souls out there.
Disclaimer: I am no writer, this is purely for entertainment/pleasure purpose. If you happen to like it or learn from it, I am more than happy/grateful.
1. Research: Unearthing the Gems
So, most of us listen to music on a daily but researching tracks for a mix just feels different. There is an added level of stress and worry attached to the process. Not don’t get me wrong, as Billie Jean King once said “Pressure is a privilege” and I completely agree. With that thought process I carry on.
a. Stay Tuned In:
Yes, the radio stations and various music platforms will put the hits right at your fingertips, but best playlist creation goes beyond that. Think of it as keeping tabs on the coolest parties in town, but with headphones.
b. The Deep Dive:
It not enough to just skim the surface; listen to top 10 or top 20 lists. I feel you have to dive deep into the song selection ocean. Explore familiar favorites to hidden gems. You never know when you’ll stumble upon the next big hit.
c. Crafting a Story:
Every mix tells a story, like a sonic storyteller spinning a yarn. The tracks have to be carefully arranged to take you on that journey. Yes, I can just adds hit after hit and in many instances it works. But what about the energy, mood, and emotions of the mix.? It can be a rollercoaster; or it can be one of those smooth drives under great weather, in a convertible on the shoreline with the sea at your side lol. Yea, I’ve watched too many movies.
2. Music Procurement: Legally and Ethically, Of Course!
Now, you might wonder how we get our hands on all this fantastic music. Don’t worry; I play by the rules.
a. Buy, Buy, Buy:
We’re music’s biggest fans, and can support artists by purchasing their tunes. It’s like sending a thank-you card for making our mixtape dreams come true.
b. Streaming Party:
Legitimate streaming services are our best pals. We pay our dues to access the treasure trove of tracks they offer. It’s like having a VIP pass to the hottest music club in town.
c. Remix Respect:
When we dip into remixes or edits, we make sure we’ve got the green light from the creators. It’s all about respecting the artists who put their heart and soul into the beats.
3. Playlist Crafting: Where the Magic Happens
Now, this is where the real DJ wizardry takes place. Crafting the perfect flow is like cooking up a delicious recipe; you need the right ingredients and the right order. Most important is really tapping into your taste buds. We are each a unique individual and as such can bring a different point of view. This is where I can set myself apart. There are no guarantees though, but in a world of billions of people I bet there are a few thousands that will like my recipe.
a. BPM and Key Chemistry:
We play matchmaker with tracks that share the same beats per minute (BPM) and harmonious keys. It’s like introducing two friends who just click instantly. As in real life sometimes you don’t expect them to hit it off, the BPM and Keys are different, you stress and bam it sounds really good. This is where your ears come in handy when you can listen and feel the chemistry between two tracks.
b. Mixing Mojo:
Ever seen a DJ’s hands move like lightning? That’s us, experimenting with beatmatching, crossfading, and tweaking the EQ. It’s a choreography of sound, and we’re the dance captains. I don’t tend to do a lot of that as of now, but yes it can look really good and daunting to the outside.
c. Practice, Practice, Practice:
Finally, practice until your headphones practically meld with your ears. It’s all about getting that mix just right. After all, you wouldn’t serve a half-cooked meal at your restaurant, would you?
Mixing isn’t just about pushing buttons; it’s an art form that takes you on a unique journey with each beat. So, next time you hit play on “30 MINUTES IN NAIJA | AFROBEAT MIX 2023 | SS EP6,” you’ll know that it’s the result of passion, research, and a pinch of sonic magic.
Now, go ahead and enjoy the groove! 🎶