Create Unique Vocal Chops With These Techniques (Lessons of KSHMR)

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore techniques for creating unique vocal chops, inspired by KSHMR's approach to music production. These methods will help you manipulate vocal samples to craft catchy melodies, making your music more dynamic and interesting.

Step 1: Selecting and Preparing Your Vocal Sample

1. Choose Your Vocal Sample

   • Use a vocal sample from a sound library, such as "Sounds of Kashmir Volume 4."

2. Adjust the Key

   • Identify the key of your vocal sample (e.g., B minor).
   • Change it to your project's key (e.g., D minor) by pitching it up three semitones.
   • Consolidate the audio by selecting the sample and using the command Command + J.

3. Set the Tempo

   • Ensure the sample is aligned with your project's tempo.

Step 2: Slicing the Vocal Sample

1. Slice to New MIDI Track

   • Right-click on the audio clip and select "Slice to New MIDI Track."
   • Choose slicing options based on transients for a more organic feel, or use quarter/eighth notes for a consistent rhythm.

2. Create a Step Sequencer

   • The sliced samples will appear as MIDI notes on a new track, which can be rearranged to form a melody.
   • Experiment with different arrangements to find a pleasing sequence.

Step 3: Adding Effects for Consistency

1. Apply Compression

   • Use a compressor to balance the dynamics of the different vocal slices.
   • This helps maintain a consistent volume across notes and enhances the overall sound.

2. Include Reverb and Delay

   • Add reverb for depth and ping-pong delay to create a spacious feel.
   • Ensure that the compressor is placed after these effects in the signal chain to glue everything together.

Step 4: Manual Pitching and Autotune

1. Chop Vocal Samples

   • Import a new vocal sample and manually chop it into segments.
   • Experiment with different sections of the vocal for variety.

2. Use Autotune

   • Apply autotune to ensure that pitch fluctuations remain within the key of your song.
   • Set the autotune to the scale of your key (e.g., D minor) to keep all vocal chops harmonically correct.

Step 5: Creating an Instrument from Vocal Vowels

1. Select Vowel Sounds

   • Choose distinct vowel sounds (A, E, I, O, U) from the vocal sample.
   • Note the pitch of each sound by converting the melody to a new MIDI track.

2. Set Up Samplers

   • Use the Simpler device in Ableton to create an instrument rack with the selected vowels.
   • Adjust the pitch of each sample to correspond with the desired MIDI notes.

3. Configure Velocity Settings

   • Set the velocity of each sample to select which vowel plays without affecting the volume.
   • Distribute the velocity ranges equally across the samples to ensure variety.

4. Compose a Melody

   • Write a melody using the MIDI notes, adjusting the velocity to trigger different vowel sounds.
   • This allows for dynamic and expressive vocal chops.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we covered essential techniques for creating unique vocal chops, including sample selection, slicing, applying effects, and using autotune. By experimenting with these methods, you can enhance your music production and craft melodies that stand out. As a next step, try to incorporate these techniques into your own projects and continue refining your sound!