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Track Deconstruction w/ Huxley

Track Deconstruction w/ Huxley

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Course Lessons

Course Preview

Working with a vocal

Building bass around a vocal

Building drums

Building melodies

Arrangement of a track

Live Q & A

Q & A

About This Course

Huxley breaks down a brand new track of his, giving us an exclusive listen. He shows us how he would build the bass and melodies around the vocal, an insight into his vocal chain and more on Logic Pro X. 

You will learn:

  • Techniques and tips for arranging your tracks
  • How to arrange an entire track quickly
  • How to make a breakdown
  • How to make a powerful drop
  • How to go beyond a 4 bar loop
  • How to mix kick and bass
  • How to EQ you bass for a tight low end
  • How to make your basslines interesting
  • How to sidechain

Lessons: 

1. Working with a Vocal

Huxley introduces the recorded vocal and explains how he builds bass and melody around the voice. He goes through his go-to vocal bus chain explaining effect choices like Sample Delay, EQ, Reverb, De-essing and more. 

2. Building Bass Around a Vocal

Huxley explains how he builds his instrumentation around a vocal take. Focussing on the kick first, then bringing in and processing bass.

3. Building Drums

Huxley talks about organising your project and drum channels, how to make your kick and bass work together and automation on drum groups.

4. Building Melodies

Huxley shares his tips on adding movement to the track using arpeggiators and filler melodies (which he refers to as earporn).

5. Arrangement of a Track

Huxley shares how he would go about arranging a track, talking about standard musical phrasing used in dance music

6. Live Q&A

  • What is the standard form of arrangement?
  •  How do you know when a mixdown is ready for mastering? Do you like to leave room for the mastering engineer to apply their own craft?
  •  What is the best tip for creating original chords and melodies?
  • How much time do you spend on a project?
  •  A lot of producers procrastinate tracks for months, how do you write tracks in a time block?
  • ow do you approach sending out promos and label demos? 
  •  I want to make techno but what i’m doing is deep house at the end, what can I do?

Meet Your Teacher

Huxley

Over the last seven plus years, the friendly character has excelled at many different styles, often ahead of the curve. Known for his well swung grooves, main room house and deeper, musically accomplished offerings that stir real emotion.

As a DJ, Huxley is someone as comfortable headlining a vast festival stage as he is holding down a small and sweaty basement. He does so from Africa to Australia and is the sort of selector who always delivers a slick, high impact dose of the good stuff. Such is his definitive sense of taste that he continues to lead from the front on his own Rinse FM show. It is there he welcomes exciting guests such as And.ID, Truncate and Vin Sol, and there that you get a wider window into his musical world.

 

Discussions

Dream of finally finishing that draft or launching that side-hustle? Make your next creative project your best yet, with simple steps from creative superstar Emma Gannon!

Discussions

Dream of finally finishing that draft or launching that side-hustle? Make your next creative project your best yet, with simple steps from creative superstar Emma Gannon!

About This Class 

Dream of finally finishing that draft or launching that side-hustle? Make your next creative project your best yet, with simple steps from creative superstar Emma Gannon!

In this new class, Emma shares the framework that allowed her to overcome self-doubt and carve her own path as an author, broadcaster, and podcast host. The secret to her success? Fed up with feeling afraid—of failure, of not being good enough, even of success—Emma dug into the science behind self-sabotage and learned exactly how to get out of her own way.

Now, Emma is sharing what she’s learned so that you can do the same: unlock your creative potential while feeling energized and empowered! 

Together with Emma, you will:

  • Identify the patterns in your life, and let go of habits that don’t serve you
  • Cut out comparison to figure out what you really want and need
  • Silence your inner critic by talking back to negative beliefs and behaviors
  • Own your success and vulnerability—both go hand-in-hand with creativity

Packed with insights and examples from Emma’s personal journey, this class is designed for every creative who needs a pep-talk or extra push to get started—and includes five exclusive downloadable worksheets to support you along the way.

Whether you’re looking to break through block, remove self-imposed pressure, or simply approach each new project with intention, this 45-minute class will unlock your confidence as a creative. Get started and celebrate taking the first step!

______________________________

All you need to follow along is a pen and paper. Download the worksheets to follow along with Emma’s exercises, or jot your thoughts in a notebook.

Resources

  • Introduction
  • Week one

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How to collaborate with a Vocalist - The right way! W/ Jess Kidd In this course Jess answers one of the most common questions asked in the music industry ‘Where can we find a vocalist?’ and ‘How do we work with vocalists?’. She answers these questions by breaking down the course into 6 core parts: The Music, How to contact a vocalist, The initial Deal, Recording - The logistics, The release and Income. You will learn: How to approach a vocalist and where to find a vocalist Understand the best place to record vocals The contractual and financial arrangements between a producer and vocalist Lessons: 1. Introduction Jess introduces herself and gives us a brief breakdown of the main concepts to be taken away from this course. 2. The Music In this lesson, Jess explains the best way to send your music professionally and what to expect from a writer/ performer in terms of response to a track you have sent, or initial contact made regarding your tracks. 3. How to contact a Vocalist Jess goes through the best and worst ways to contact a vocalist/ writer/ Performer - and what to expect from them based on your initial contact. 4. The Initial Deal In this lesson, Jess Goes through the awareness of the artist’s methods before you attempt to make a deal. 5. Recording - The Logistics Jess explains the logistics of recording with a vocalist. Particularly during lockdowns, we have worked remotely with vocalists/ artists; Jess goes through the differences between recording in-person and remotely. 6. The Release In this lesson, she covers what producers and vocalists need to pay attention to and work together on during a release. 7. Income In this lesson, Jess show us how to build a foundation for yourself in music so you can be prepared and organized for when you start to claim money back from your music. 8. Live Q&A I am located in the states where I currently use BMI. Is it similar to PRS ? When you are producing, do you ever go back and say this isn’t the right sound for me or I don’t think my voice is gonna suit this? Do you think those Fiverr vocalists are any good? If there was one tip to leave from all of this, what would it be? How have you found the process of working with a vocalist after being on both sides of the fence?
How to Start a Song From Scratch w/ Ramin Rezaie In this course, Ramin shows us how to start a song from scratch. Throughout the session, Ramin jams out with hardware in his studio and shows us his process on how he starts a song from scratch. He explains how he gets his kicks and bass working cleanly together so they do not clash in the mix while providing us with the tools he uses to write his basslines and grooves. You will learn: Ramin’s workflow What labels like solid grooves look out for in their artists How Ramin gets his clean crisp sound How to start a song from scratch How to create grooves and basslines How to use Effectrix Lessons: 1. Introduction In this lesson, Ramin gives us a brief rundown on the hardware and studio equipment that he uses to produce his tracks. He then starts to jam out and show us how he starts his process of writing a song from scratch. 2. Grooves and Basslines Ramin shows us how he creates his grooves and basslines as this is the foundation for most of his & solid groove tracks. He then shows us how he processes the bass and kicks to provide that clean crisp sound. While using different swings and methods to create the groove for the track. 3. Percussion In this lesson, Ramin looks at the percussion of the track more focusing on the toms. He shows how he uses the toms to add rhythm and groove to the track. 4. Arrangement In this lesson, Ramin gives us a brief idea of how he would start arranging the track starting with the intro and first build. He gives us his tips and tricks to provide energy and builds from the start of the track so the listener is always intrigued. 5. Leads & Synths In this lesson, Ramin looks at other elements such as leads, synths, and Fx to start adding more texture and feel to the track. 6. Effectrix Ramin shows us one of his most used VST plugins ‘Effectrix’. He shows us the many ways in how this VST can enhance your production and create unique elements in your tracks so they stand out compared to the pros.
How to Make a Sample Pack w/ Alex Holmes Alex Holmes is a producer, composer and sound engineer for several dance music acts including GotSome and Apexaple. He composes for a TV & Film music library and contributes monthly to MusicTech Magazine Online. In this course Alex explains the key elements to making a good sample pack, building loops, making one-shots, making multi samples, mixdown & quality controls and ways to add value and interest to our sample packs. By the end of this course you will have all the necessary tools to earn money and enter Mixmasters sample pack competition. You will learn: What makes a successful sample pack How to turn your raw samples and sounds into a sellable product Tricks to make your sample pack stand out from the crowd Building loops Making One-Shots Making Multi samples Mixdown & Quality Controls Ways to add value and interest to your sample packs Lessons: 1. Introduction Alex introduces himself and his experience in the industry. He then breaks down the core concepts in which you will learn from this course. 2. What Makes a good Sample Pack Alex defines what makes a good sample back. He explains that it provides something you can’t do yourself such as: High Quality Production Complex musicality/ Chord progressions Instruments you didn’t have / couldn't play (especially vocals) As well as Flexibility such as: Dry/Wet versions Alternate versions and separate parts 3. Building Loops In this lesson Alex goes through the different types of loops that he finds are beneficial for a strong sample pack. He explains what type of loops make certain sample packs better than others. 4. Making One-Shots In this lesson Alex shows us how to make one-shots for our sample packs. He shows us the flexibility of their use and why they are a great addition to have in your packs. He then explains how to format them and process them so they sound clear and crisp when exporting. 5. Making Multi Samples Alex shows us another unique tool to add to our sample packs, as he demonstrates how to make multi samples. He explains how this is a great way to be more creative with your sample packs. 6. Mixdown & Quality control In this lesson Alex goes through the key checkpoints for every sample pack such as: Club ready or leave some space ? depends on content Remove unwanted frequencies (rumble, resonances) Compress to balance volume and reduce unwanted peaks Reverb & Delay? Gives more character but less flexible Alex then demonstrates basic compression and mixdown essentials. 7. Ways to add Value and Interest Alex goes through some of his tips to make your sample packs stand out compared to the rest. He explains the importance of having a theme, and providing each sample in many different file types so it is DAW friendly. 8. Live Q&A What are the legal issues that you may run into? Can you recommend any VST’s that allow you to create samples for your sample packs? 9. Mixmasters Sample Pack Competition In this lesson, one of the mixmasters community managers Dylan explains how Mixmasters is running their sample pack competition and how you have a chance to enter and earn some money!
How to Get The Best From Vocals w/ Enyon In this course, Enyon teaches us the best ways to get the most out of vocalsits and their vocals by showing us the importance of finding the right vocalist, the initial idea for the song, and even how it is recorded. He explains how each one of these stages have a crucial part in the final product. You will learn: Preparation with a track and singer (bed track, discussion over lyrical content - verse, chorus) Recording Vocals - achieving a relaxed performance. Microphone types, preamps and gain structures Editing Vocals - Comping techniques, pitch correction, gating use, FX Processing - groups, FX bussing, FX vocal chains ect. Lessons: 1. Introduction Enyon introduces himself and speaks about his role in the music industry. He explains how the information that he provides throughout this course is interrelated for all skill levels and DAW users. 2. Preparation Stage In this lesson Enyon explains the importance of the preparation stage and the key to working and finding the right vocalists. He helps us think about what type of singer/vocalist you want to sing on your track. He then shows us why it is important to have a rough arrangement of your idea out for the vocalist to understand your vision. 3. Recording Stage Enyon goes through some of the questions we should ask ourselves when getting ready for the recording stage: How are you gonna record ? Where are you gonna record? What equipment do you need or want to use? These are just some of the key questions that you should ask yourself before recording with a vocalist. He then explains his tips and tricks for when you first meet the vocalist for a recording session; He mentions that you should always make the vocalist feel comfortable and record their vocals as dry as possible. 4. Working with a Vocalist In this lesson Enyon explains his tips and tricks for working with a vocalist. He mentions that you should always record a vocalist even when they are warming up. As many vocalists may get shy when recording, sometimes the best part of the session is their warmup as they are at their most comfort. 5. Vocal Editing Enyon shows us how to edit vocal recordings by rendering them and pitching them. He explains to not stress over some bad pitches as that is normal and can always be fixed in this stage. He then shows us how he would EQ and compress the vocals to make them fit into the mix. 6. The Finished Mix In this lesson, Enyon takes the processed vocals that he is happy with and groups the majority of them together to bring them to life in the mix. He uses different reverb and delay channels just for the vocals to help make sure they fit right into the mix. 7. Live Q&A What does monophonic mean? What does Polyphonic mean? If you are working on high-quality vocal samples, what is the best flex mode to use? Do I record my vocals in mono or stereo?
How to Get More DJ Gigs w/ Michael Boland Michael Boland is currently an Agent and Tour manager at MamboLand Agency which is attached to the legendary Mambos Ibiza and all their events and DJs. Michael has previously worked at leading venues such as The Rainbow Venues and at legendary club night Miss Moneypenny’s. In this session, Michael will run through the 101 guide on how to get yourself gigs. The topics that will be covered include...Understanding the dynamics of the market, Utilising your network - identifying who can help you get your first foot in the door or help get you better gigs, How to reach out to promoters/venues, The role of social media - Building your own brand and also using social media as a networking tool, Creating your own party / local scene - building a buzz in your town or city, and Artist Managers / Booking agents. You will learn: How to Understand the dynamics of the market - The supply of DJs & producers outstrips the demand. What does this mean for you? How to Utilise your network - identifying who can help you get your foot in the door How to be professional How to reach out to promoters/ venues. The role of social media - Building your own brand and also using social media as a networking tool How to Create your own party/ local scene About Artist Managers/ Booking agents - What's their role? When might I need them? Lessons: 1. Introduction In this lesson, Michael gives a brief overview of his role in the music industry, such as that he is currently an Agent and Tour manager at MamboLand Agency which is attached to the legendary Mambos Ibiza and all their events and DJs. He then goes on to explain the core concepts and topics of this course. 2. Understanding the dynamic of the market Michael starts from the beginning on how to start getting gigs and from there how to start getting paid gigs. He explains all the necessary details that one needs to know understand the market. He then goes through some key questions that we as Dj’s should ask ourselves, such as: Are you ready? Are you ready to spin on CDJ’s in front of people? Are you musically ready? - Tracks, beatmatching, mixing ect. 3. Booking Criteria In this lesson, Michael goes through the booking criteria in which promoters and booking agencies are looking for. He explains the importance of your online presence and how professional you present yourself on and offline. 4. The Hustle In this lesson, Michael walks us through the key points on how to start creating your buzz or what we call ‘The Hustle’. He explains the importance of starting within your own network to help get your foot in the door and the importance of going to shows regularly as this is one of the best ways to grow your network and meet your future audience. As well Michael leaves us with some key questions you should be asking yourself such as Do you know any promoters, Venue owners, Dj friends that can help you get your foot in the door? Do you go to shows regularly? Do any of the key DJs in your local scene know who you are or what you play? 5. Bring Your Crew In this lesson, Michael explains the importance of bringing your crew to your events and other events that are correlated or related to your scene and events. This shows promoters that you can bring people to your shows. Doing this shows how much value you can bring and how profitable you can be. 6. Getting Paid Michael explains that when it comes to getting paid there are no set fees. He explains the big pay gap between headlining DJs and the rest, as well as the conflict of upcoming, DJs undervaluing themselves and performing for free and how this impacts the industry. 7. Artist Management Michael explains to those who are maybe thinking or looking into managers and booking agencies. That this is a step to look into down the road. He explains the criteria you should have before even thinking about this step in your artist journey. The main point he leaves us with from this lesson is that you need to think of your value and what you can offer them not what they can offer you. 8. Live Q&A Do you find one would be better than the other; sending out demo mixes that are personal or personal visits to respected venues? Once you have made a name within your city, what can you do to expand into other cities? Going off what you said earlier Is it about using your interest to help create super content for your socials to help build your brand? I have DJ once inf the last 7 years before coming to a parent; I had Opened for a big DJ at the time, is it ok to name-drop when pitching myself to future promoters? Who is more interesting for cafe mambo, a Dj like Roger Sanchez, or a top producer? Why are so many DJs flown into Ibiza when there are so many great DJs who live on the island? from a promoter’s point of view.
How to Get a Professional Sounding Master w/ Richard EarnshawGetting a professionally sounding master can be the difference between having a good track and a great track! In this Course, Richard Earnshaw masters the Clubhouse Casual remixes by Southhall and The Running man live. You will see how Richard breaks down his master chain and his overall mastering process. Starting with the process of taking a mixdown into a professionally sounding master, then he looks at the external hardware process, and then he explains the internal process that is used when mastering. You will learn: The Process of taking a mixdown into a professionally sounding master What the external hardware process is What the internal process used is, using software and VSTs Lessons: 1. Introduction In this lesson, Richard gives a brief overview of how he would start his mastering process for the two remixes. He explains some of his tips on how to start the process and what to look for before diving right into the mastering process. 2. The Master Chain In this lesson Richard goes through all the different Plug-ins and VSts he uses on his mastering chain such as: Fab Filter Pro Q3 SPL IRON Pro - MB Oxford INF Ozone 9 Pro - L - 2 MultiMeter Paz-Analyzer He then explains the benefits and uses for each, one by one, and breaks down his workflow by demonstrating how the master chain works.. 3. The Mastering Process In this lesson, Richard shows us the full Mastering process. He demonstrates his process while mastering the two remixes of Clubhouse casual live. He then explains that the mastering process shouldnt involve major changes, as you should only be doing minor tweaks. He states that if you are having to make major changes, then you should think about taking a step back and going back to the mixdown process. As each process is a key step into the mastering stage. 4. Live Q&A How important is it to treat your physical space acoustically? Does a mix ever come that doesn't need any mastering? What is your opinion on the BX true peak limiter?
How to Livestream a DJ Set Using Mixcloud and OBS w/ Lawrence FriendIn this course, Lawrence teaches us how to set up a DJ Livestream using Mixcloud and OBS. He gives us an introduction to the OBS software and shows us what he finds to be the best settings for his streams. He then explains how to set up a greenscreen and its chroma key settings, and gives us a brief introduction to multi-platform streaming using Restream. You will learn: How to setup Mixcloud to Livestream An introduction to OBS software and best settings Multi-Camera Set up Audio Input Set up Green screen / Chroma Key setup A brief introduction to multi-platform streaming using Restream Lessons: 1. Introduction In this lesson, our host Dylan from mixmasters explains our upcoming campaign with Set for love and the EP that has been released in partnership with them. Dylan then introduces our teacher Lawrence who explains the benefits of live streaming and how it has helped himself and many other DJs around the world. 2. How to Set up a Livestream with OBS In this lesson, Lawrence talks about the equipment he uses for live streaming and how he sets up his stream. He then shows us how he sets up his OBS and some key things to check for such as internet connection, computer speed, stream quality, etc. 3. Green Screen / Chroma Key setup Lawrence explains how to set up a green screen and its chroma key settings within OBS to make sure you get the best visuals out of your stream. He talks about the importance of lighting and brightness when streaming, as well as that this is not just a one-time process. Every time you stream you are always adjusting. 4. OBS Software and Best Settings In this lesson, Lawrence shows us the settings he finds works best for his streams. He explains how these settings may not be the best for everyone, and he suggests taking the time to play around with the different settings prior to your stream. To make sure you have the best settings for your streaming environment. 5. Multi-Platform streaming Using Restream Lawrence demonstrates how he uses Restream for Multi-platform streaming. He shows us everything you need to know from finding your stream key, your stream settings, editing your channel, etc. Lawrence explains the benefits of Multi-platform streaming and why he personally uses it. 6. Live Q&A When and how do you set up your own stream key? Is a Livestream a set or a show? Is Restream supported by all social media platforms so you won’t be kicked off or muted when you go live?
Track Breakdown: "Set For Love EP" w/ Alex HolmesAbout This Course Alex is no stranger to remixing, having worked on over 35 remix releases over the last 7 years including Basement Jaxx, Wilkinson, Junior Jack, Roisin Murphy, Jax Jones and more. In this session, he’ll walkthrough the arrangement for his entry to the Samburu remix competition, which has just been released as part of the Mixmasters Set for Love EP. You will learn: Track and buss mixing techniques for a full sounding mix How to use automation to create movement, momentum and effective build-ups Arrangement tips for creating progression and detail Lessons: 1. Introduction In this lesson, Alex introduces himself and explains his thoughts on remixes and where he finds his enjoyment while working on them. He then explains the lessons that he will be teaching within this course. 2. Arrangement Alex explains his arrangement for the track, and how he organizes his arrangement view. He explains the importance of organization and how it helps him with his workflow and building his arrangements of his tracks. 3. Kick In this lesson, Alex breaks down his kick. He shows us how he processes the kick for his remix, and his use of EQ and compression. Alex then briefly demonstrates his use of automation on his kick and explains the benefits in doing so. 4. Drums In this lesson, Alex breaksdown the drums for his remix and shows us all the processing and VST plugins he used to widen and provide a clear and crisp sound. He then explains the use of each element and its purpose within the mix, and why he layers his drums and its benefits when done right. 5. Bass Alex breaks down his bassline and his lowends of the mix. He demonstrates how he processes and creates his bass for his remix. He explains how you dont always need to do much EQ and compression, instead he gives tips on ducking the bass to provide a clear sound; with out having elements fight for space in the mix. 6. Samples In this lesson, Alex breaksdown all the samples that he used and were given to all the contestants for the remix competition. He explains which samples he used, why he used them and their significance within his remix. He demonstrates all the VST plugins he used and his use of automation and layering to help make the remix sound more full and unique. 7. VST Plug-ins In this lesson, Alex goes into-depth of his workflow template and masterbuss. He explains all the different VST plugins he used within his remix and their purpose. Alex then provides us with some of his favourite free VST plugins which will benefit all producers.
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Track Signing Final: Nov 2021
Get Signed to Mixmasters Production Competition
Live A/R Feedback w/ Nervous Records
Compare Your Sound To The Pros w/ Ramin RezaieCompare your Sound to the pros! Ramin Rezaie (Solid Grooves) Had joined us to support our members to get that professional sound. As label manager at Solid Grooves, Ramin has first-hand knowledge of what labels like Solid Grooves look out for. Ramin is also a Beatport topping producer in his own right and has just launched his own imprint ‘Silky Records’ You will learn: - How to get your sound to a pro-level - What industry-leading labels look for in a track - Tips and tricks to improve your mixdowns - + More
Group Coaching Sessions 1 1 1 1
DJ Goals Bootcamp 2022
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Artist Coaching w/ Ramin Rezaie (Solid Grooves)
Mixmasters Pro Community - Pro Members
Mixmasters Pro Community - Free Community
Mixmasters Pro Community - GSA Members
Mutal Production Challenge w/ Josh Butler
Mixmasters Pro Community - Team
Electronic Artist Summit 2023
4 PS Goal Setting | Onboarding
Melodic House & Techno Masterclass w/ Robert Babicz
Marketplace
Meteor Product Template
Quick StartWalkthrough & How-to videos to get acquainted with the platform.
How to Get Signed to Your Dream Label w/ Jack BroomJack Broom is the artist development manager at Mixmasters and also manages various emerging artists through his management agency, Elevate Artists. In this action-packed presentation, you will learn everything about getting signed to your dream label using our 4 P's method: 1. Productivity 2. Production 3. Promotion 4. Pitch Using this framework, you will drastically improve your chances of getting your music heard and getting signed!
A&R Top Tips to Get Signed Here you will get the
How To Get Signed to Defected w/ Seamus HajiDefected A&R Manager Seamus Haji gives his top tips and breaks down 5 artist profiles and then hosts a live A&R session where he plays tracks and gives feedback.
BLACKBOOK
Production Tips Bootcamp (Dec 23 - Jan 24)
Make More Music Bootcamp 2024
Production Tips Bootcamp (Dec 23 - Jan 24) 1
Production Tips Bootcamp (Dec 23 - Jan 24) 1 1
Barbara Tucker: The Marriage of Union between the Producer and the singer
Get Signed Summit 2024
Coaching with Danny Savage