stayc main image

Behind Kaytranada’s Unique Sound

February 18, 2023

Kaytranada (Louis Celestin) is a Haitian-Canadian record producer and DJ. He is a highly acclaimed electronic artist, having earned two Grammys and countless other awards for his work. Kaytranada has

Read more
stayc main image

The Creative Act: Rick Rubin’s Knowledge Turned Into A Book

February 17, 2023

What happens when a famous music producer takes an interest in self-help books? The Creative Act is your answer. But who is Rick Rubin? Without a doubt, Rubin has an impressive track record in the

Read more
stayc main image

Behind the Music: The Audio Engineer

February 14, 2023

The music industry is a place full of musicians, producers, and creators who have the magical ability to make those perfect sounds we hear everyday through our digital devices. We want to listen close

Read more
stayc main image

Koji Kondo: Nintendo’s Melody Maestro

February 14, 2023

What do popular video games franchises Super Mario, Legend of Zelda, and Star Fox all have in common? They were all produced and published by Nintendo, and the iconic music themes that you hear in...

Read more
stayc main image

Taylor Swift on Industry Sexism and Music Rights

February 8, 2023

Being a successful woman in the music industry is no easy feat. Not only do they deal with the typical trials and tribulations of being a musician, but there are also gender-specific challenges.

Read more
stayc main image

What’s the Ideal Length for a Single— Are Songs Getting Shorter?

February 8, 2023

“Is it just me, or are songs getting shorter these days?” This is a question I have often pondered, especially in the last few years. It appears that in the era of social media, attention spans are

Read more
stayc main image

SG Lewis: Who Is He - and What’s Next For This Rising Star?

February 6, 2023

SG Lewis (Samuel George Lewis) is a rising star in the dance/electronic music realm. He is a DJ/producer turned singer-songwriter, and is known for his disco-inspired, transcendent sound. He routinely

Read more
stayc main image

Lessons to Learn From the Launch Of Sam Smith’s “Unholy”

February 4, 2023

Sam Smith just released their new album “Gloria” on the 27th of January. As described by Pitchfork, “Gloria flips between hyperpop, country, dancehall, disco, 2-step, and intimate, Kehlani-esque R&B”.

Read more
stayc main image

Are Virtual Idols the Future of Music?

February 5, 2023

Virtual reality and the metaverse have become popular topics in the music industry where more and more technology and music have been combined, creating something that could revolutionize the entire

Read more
stayc main image

Grammy Awards Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical: The Category Songwriters Deserve

February 5, 2023

The 65th annual GRAMMY Awards are here, and there's a long-awaited addition to the awards. This year marks the introduction of a new category: the Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical Award. For all

Read more
stayc main image

How Zach Bryan’s Authenticity Makes His Music So Appealing, Even to Non-Country Fans

January 31, 2023

Zach Bryan released his first album in 2019, and in the short time since he has become one of the biggest names in country. His biggest album, “American Heartbreak”, broke single-day album streaming

Read more
stayc main image

Miley Cyrus is Going to Take Over Pop in 2023

January 31, 2023

Miley Cyrus was born into the music industry, and has spent her career channelling her Nashville and Hollywood roots into a diverse discography stacked with hits. Add to that countless covers that are

Read more

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

stayc main image

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!