DIY Mixtape Basics: Composing Your Mixtape

So you're ready to drop the mixtape huh? Think you got some "fiya isshhh" that needs to be heard? Well now it's time to break down the basics when it comes to creating your mixtape.

First thing you have to remember is that, THIS IS A MIXTAPE NOT AN ALBUM. Albums involve a lot of mixing/track formatting/ patience, but with a mix tape you can just throw it together, literally. Not a lot of brain power usually goes behind dropping a mix tape because it's the "raw" deal. Meaning if you only had verses you did from an incomplete song, you can copy and paste your way to an excellent project. All you'd have to know is how to use a home audio program such as Cubase, Pro Tools or Sonar for example.

It's best if you have computer knowledge or know somebody that does when it comes to recording the tracks you want. Although I recorded my first mixtape on a karaoke machine when I was 16, I've now learned to know that computer based programs are the best. It's best to have a theme when releasing a mixtape, meaning you should have all your songs revolve around your title. If you title was "Back 2 Tha Blocc" or "Pimpin' Aint Dead", you would want to have your songs tie into the title. A picture is worth a thousand words so also make sure your CD's cover art fits the title. I often just burn my mix tapes and hand them right out with the name of the CD written in black marker; however this isn't always the way to go. This is usually something I do if I'm in a rush or if somebody I know needs a quick supply, this isn't meant for general fan base. The fans want quality meaning the whole package, CD, CD cover art, track listing and digitally mastered CD. But if you're working on a limited budget, do what you can do to make the most out of your money.

But back to the songs, create them at your own pace and mix and match different sound effects within the songs. Don't just leave them basic or your album will seem plain as a white tee. If you have the opportunity, hook up with a popular DJ to host your mix tape. Perhaps you and the DJ could get extra exposure by doing a tag team effort. The point of the DJ is to boost you and accent the tracks that are already hot. Having a DJ host your mix tape can be one of the smartest things you do. Knowing that he/she is a DJ means they will play your album everywhere they work if they are featured on it. It's just another way to promote your mix tape.

When in the studio do all your recording first, and editing at the end. Often production gets held up do to spending too much time mixing and editing a song, IT'S A MIXTAPE. Lay the vocals down, mix it so it isn't too loud or distorted and call the track done. Try to have your mix tape be anywhere from 9 to 23 songs just so the listener feels they got a complete all around of what your bout. However a mix tape with 3 or 4 hot songs can be a sample and possibly lead to a bigger demand to hear from you. The last thing to remember is that if you don't like your songs and material you're releasing, then nobody else will.

Peep next installment. Self Promotion