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Max Martin: Why a Pop-Hit Songwriter and Producer Created a Musical

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Even if you don’t know who Max Martin is, you’ve definitely heard his songs. Hit-pop songs are kind of his thing after all. Martin first stepped into the music world in 1985 as a frontman for....

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MANILA GREY: Vancouver's Rising R&B Duo

March 18, 2023

The Filipino-Canadian duo from Vancouver has been releasing new tracks left and right, and they are known for their most streamed songs on Spotify, “Timezones,” and “Silver Skies.” Previously .......

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How did Miley Cyrus’ Heartbreak Song “Flowers” Break the Spotify Record?

March 17, 2023

The singer, songwriter, and actress Miley Cyrus has recently released a record-breaking song called “Flowers” in January 2023. This song recites her 10-year long relationship with her ex-husband....

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Men I Trust: Canada’s DIY Indie Band That Could Be Your New Favourite

March 4, 2023

Men I Trust is a Canadian indie pop band known for their dreamy and mellow sound. Their music is laid back, incorporating elements of funk, disco, and R&B to create a smooth and groovy vibe that is

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Basics For Building an At-Home Recording Studio

March 3, 2023

Artists like Kaytranada have proved that you don’t need access to a professional recording studio to create well-produced music. As technology and social media have advanced, it is now easier than eve

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Facing the Music: Legal Challenges With AI and Copyright Laws

February 25, 2023

People draw inspiration from others when forming their ideas, it’s a fact of life. Sampling in music is no exception - and artists do it for a variety of reasons. Traditionally, copyright laws and

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Tobias Jesso Jr.: GRAMMY-Winning Canadian Sells His Song Rights

February 23, 2023

Tobias Jesso Jr. You may know his name from his 2015 solo album Goon. Or maybe from his work on various popular songs, such as “When We Were Young” by Adele and “Alive” by Sia. Or even from his rece

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How Popular TV Shows and Movies Resurrect Classic Songs

February 23, 2023

HBO’s The Last of Us is arguably the hottest show out right now, receiving near universal acclaim from viewers and critics alike. This holds especially true for episode three: “Long, Long Time”.

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Ginalina: Bringing Her Taiwan Roots Into Her Latest Album

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Folk singer. Songwriter. Canadian. Polyglot. All of these titles belong to Gina Lam, also known by her stage name Ginalina. In November 2022, she released her latest album titled Going Back: Remembe

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Rihanna’s Super Bowl Performance

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Rihanna is an illustrious artist. She is among the best selling female artists of all time, and was one of the greatest hitmakers of the 2000s and 2010s. She has since grown to become the richest...

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How do Streaming Platforms Pay Artists - Is It Fair?

February 20, 2023

Streaming is now the driving force of the music industry, making up 84% of the industry revenue in the U.S. While streaming is much more convenient for listeners, many artists argue that it is near im

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Why Jay-Z Was Named The #1 Rapper Of All Time

February 23, 2023

Who is the greatest rapper of all time? Is it even possible to crown just one person? Well, Billboard and Vibe did exactly that. And, according to them, that person is Jay-Z. In honor of Hip-Hop’s

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Crafting Music Like Jeff Bhasker: A Guide for Aspiring Music Creators

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Jeff Bhasker is a legendary figure in the music industry, celebrated for his outstanding contributions as a producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. His Grammy-winning career has seen collaborations with icons like Kanye West, Bruno Mars, and Taylor Swift, each project showcasing his unique blend of innovation and musical mastery. If you're a music creator looking to emulate Bhasker's style, this guide is tailored for you. Let's dive into the key elements that define Jeff Bhasker's sound and how you can incorporate them into your own music production journey.

1. Understand the Bhasker Signature Sound

Jeff Bhasker's music is an eclectic mix of pop, rock, R&B, and hip-hop, characterized by lush arrangements, powerful melodies, and innovative production techniques. Here’s how to capture his essence:

  • Melodic Excellence: Bhasker’s melodies are memorable and emotionally charged. Focus on creating strong melodic lines that can carry the weight of the song.
  • Harmonic Richness: Use complex chord progressions and rich harmonies to add depth to your tracks. Bhasker often incorporates jazz and classical influences to achieve this.
  • Dynamic Arrangements: Pay attention to the arrangement of your tracks. Bhasker's productions often feature dynamic shifts and intricate layering of instruments and vocals.

2. Instrumental Mastery

Bhasker’s proficiency with multiple instruments sets him apart. To emulate his instrumental prowess:

  • Learn Multiple Instruments: Diversify your instrumental skills. Start with keyboards and guitar, as these are central to Bhasker’s productions.
  • Experiment with Synthesizers: Bhasker uses a wide range of synthesizers to create unique sounds. Experiment with different synths and sound design techniques to develop your own signature tones.
  • Incorporate Live Instruments: While electronic elements are prominent, Bhasker’s tracks often feature live instrumentation. Incorporate live drums, brass, or string sections to add a human touch to your music.

3. Collaborative Spirit

Collaboration is a cornerstone of Bhasker’s success. He often works with other producers, songwriters, and artists to bring his musical visions to life. Here’s how to adopt a collaborative approach:

  • Network with Other Musicians: Build a network of talented musicians, producers, and songwriters. Collaborate on projects to expand your creative horizons.
  • Be Open to Ideas: Embrace the ideas and suggestions of your collaborators. Bhasker’s willingness to experiment and adapt is a key factor in his success.
  • Co-Write Songs: Co-writing can bring fresh perspectives to your music. Partner with lyricists and other composers to craft compelling lyrics and compositions.

4. Production Techniques

Bhasker’s production style is innovative and meticulous. Here are some production techniques to help you emulate his sound:

  • Layering: Bhasker’s tracks are known for their intricate layering of sounds. Use multiple layers of instruments and vocals to create a rich, textured soundscape.
  • Vocal Production: Pay special attention to vocal production. Bhasker often uses harmonies, doubles, and vocal effects to enhance the vocal performance.
  • Mixing and Mastering: A polished mix is essential. Invest time in learning mixing and mastering techniques or collaborate with a skilled engineer to ensure your tracks sound professional.

5. Musical Influences and Inspirations

Bhasker draws inspiration from a wide range of musical genres and artists. To develop a similar breadth of influence:

  • Listen to Diverse Genres: Expand your musical palette by exploring different genres, from classical to hip-hop. Analyze what makes each genre unique and incorporate those elements into your music.
  • Study Bhasker’s Work: Listen to Bhasker’s discography and analyze his productions. Identify common themes, techniques, and stylistic choices that you can adapt to your own work.

6. Creative Mindset

Adopting a creative mindset is crucial. Bhasker’s willingness to push boundaries and experiment is a cornerstone of his success. Here’s how to cultivate a creative mindset:

  • Stay Curious: Always be on the lookout for new sounds, techniques, and ideas. Curiosity drives innovation.
  • Take Risks: Don’t be afraid to take creative risks. Experiment with unconventional ideas and sounds to discover something unique.
  • Keep Learning: The music industry is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and technologies to keep your productions fresh and relevant.

Practical Tips for Your Music Journey

  1. Join Online Communities: Platforms like Reddit, SoundCloud, and even Sonical.ly’s own community can be great places to connect with like-minded musicians and share your work.
  2. Use Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs): Software like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro X can help you experiment with sounds and arrangements similar to Bhasker’s.
  3. Attend Workshops and Webinars: Many professionals offer online classes that can give you deeper insights into music production techniques.
  4. Analyze Songs: Pick apart Bhasker’s songs and others that inspire you. Understanding the structure and production techniques can provide invaluable learning.
  5. Practice Regularly: Like any other skill, regular practice and experimentation will improve your music production abilities over time.

Conclusion

Making music like Jeff Bhasker involves a combination of musical skill, innovative production techniques, and a collaborative spirit. By understanding his signature sound, mastering multiple instruments, embracing collaboration, and continually pushing creative boundaries, you can infuse your music with the same level of artistry and originality that defines Bhasker’s work. Remember, the key to success is not just imitating but also innovating, bringing your unique voice to the forefront. Happy producing!

By following these guidelines, you'll not only learn how to create music that echoes Jeff Bhasker’s style but also develop your unique sound as a music creator. Join the conversation in the Sonical.ly community and share your progress—we’re excited to see what you create!