Music production has evolved at a rapid pace over the years, with different subgenres of rap beats carving their own unique soundscapes. In this blog post, we’ll explore three iconic subgenres of rap beats—Trap, Boom Bap, and Lo-Fi—and break down how to produce each of them Rap Rap Beats. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned producer, mastering these styles will add variety and creativity to your production skills.
1. Trap Beats: The Modern Rap Sound
Trap music, originating from the Southern U.S., has become one of the most dominant forces in rap production today. Characterized by hard-hitting 808s, snappy hi-hats, and atmospheric synths, it’s the sound that defines modern rap and hip-hop charts.
Key Elements of Trap Beats:
- 808s: The bass is the cornerstone of any Trap beat. The 808 drum machine sound is deep, punchy, and often distorted for that signature booming feel. Layering 808s with sub-bass elements creates that massive low-end.
- Hi-hats & Percussion: Trap is known for its complex hi-hat patterns. Fast, rolling 16th or 32nd-note triplets are common, creating that rapid-fire feel. Adding percussive elements like claps and snares will give it texture.
- Melodies & Synths: Dark, atmospheric melodies are prevalent, often using minor scales or exotic instruments. Synthesizers like 808s or 909s are used for melodies that are subtle but impactful.
- Tempo: Trap typically sits at around 140 BPM, allowing the 808s to breathe while keeping the rhythm fast-paced and energetic.
How to Make a Trap Beat:
- Start with the Drums: Lay down the foundation with a punchy kick, snare, and hi-hat. Focus on layering your 808 bass with the kick to create that deep low-end.
- Add Percussion and Hi-Hats: Program rapid hi-hat rolls with triplets, and experiment with different percussive sounds like rimshots or snaps to make it more dynamic.
- Melodic Elements: Use a dark pad or synth to create an atmospheric background. The melody should complement the rhythm, with a catchy hook that sticks with the listener.
- Mix and Master: Ensure your 808s are clean and punchy in the mix, while making room for other elements like the snare and clap. Use EQ and compression to achieve that polished Trap sound.
2. Boom Bap Beats: The Golden Age of Hip-Hop
Boom Bap is the backbone of old-school hip-hop, inspired by the 90s New York scene. This style is known for its raw, gritty drums, laid-back yet punchy rhythms, and soulful, jazz-influenced samples.
Key Elements of Boom Bap Beats:
- Drums: The “Boom” represents the heavy kick drum, while the “Bap” refers to the crisp, sharp snare. Drum breaks, often sampled from vinyl records, are key to this genre.
- Sampling: Boom Bap is heavily reliant on sampling, usually from old soul, jazz, and funk records. The beauty of this subgenre is the way producers flip these samples into fresh, head-nodding beats.
- Chopped & Layered Melodies: Rather than complex synth lines, Boom Bap beats often feature soulful loops with chopped-up samples that create a rhythmic groove.
- Tempo: Boom Bap typically sits around 85-95 BPM, giving the beat a laid-back but hard-hitting feel.
How to Make a Boom Bap Beat:
- Sample Selection: Dig through vinyl records or sample libraries for soulful or jazzy hooks. Once you find a sample, chop it up to fit your beat, or layer it to create a new texture.
- Drum Programming: Start with a heavy, punchy kick drum followed by a snappy snare. Use a drum break or layer your own kicks and snares for that raw sound.
- Layering and Chopping: Chop up your sample and layer it with a bassline or subtle keys to add more depth. The focus here is on groove, so make sure everything locks in tightly with the rhythm section.
- Mixing: Keep your drums loud and upfront, allowing them to drive the track. Let the sample breathe, but be mindful of not overcrowding the mix.
3. Lo-Fi Beats: Chill and Relaxed Vibes
Lo-Fi (short for Low Fidelity) is a genre that embraces imperfections. It’s all about creating a relaxing, warm, and nostalgic vibe. Lo-Fi beats are often used as background music for studying, working, or unwinding, with their soothing melodies and dusty textures.
Key Elements of Lo-Fi Beats:
- Warmth & Imperfections: Lo-Fi beats have a “flawed” sound, often incorporating vinyl crackles, tape hiss, or ambient noise to give the music an imperfect, vintage feel.
- Simple Drums: The drums in Lo-Fi are usually minimal and relaxed. Think kick, snare, and a soft hi-hat pattern—nothing too complex or distracting.
- Melody & Chords: Lo-Fi melodies are typically based on smooth, jazzy chord progressions and mellow piano or guitar loops.
- Tempo: Lo-Fi beats tend to be slower, ranging from 60-90 BPM, giving them a laid-back, mellow vibe.
How to Make a Lo-Fi Beat:
- Select a Chill Melody: Find a smooth chord progression, either using a piano, guitar, or vibey synth. Keep the melody simple but emotional.
- Add Drum Elements: Use soft kicks and snares with a subtle swing. You can even use a sampled drum break with imperfections to give it that classic Lo-Fi feel.
- Introduce Ambient Sound: Layer in background noise like vinyl crackles, environmental sounds (rain, street noise, etc.), or reverb to create that “warm” atmosphere.
- Mixing: The key is in the imperfections—allow the mix to have a slightly “raw” sound. Use EQ to take out some of the high-end, giving it a more muffled feel, and emphasize the low-midrange for warmth.
Final Thoughts
While Trap, Boom Bap, and Lo-Fi all have their unique characteristics, they share one thing in common: they offer a platform for creativity and self-expression. Whether you’re crafting high-energy beats for a Trap hit, digging through old records for a Boom Bap classic, or mellowing out with Lo-Fi vibes, these subgenres each have their place in the world of rap production.
By understanding the defining elements of each, you can experiment and combine different techniques to create something that is truly your own. Happy producing!