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What Is the Point of Mastering If the Mix Is Good? A Guide to Understanding Mastering's Role

August 26, 2024

For many newer producers, it can be confusing to understand the importance of mastering, especially when your mix feels polished and balanced. However, mastering is an essential step in the...

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Write a Vocal Melody That Stands Out: Tips for Phrasing and Dynamics

August 25, 2024

If you’ve been writing music for a decade but are just starting to dive into vocal melodies, you’re not alone in facing challenges with phrasing and creating vocal dynamics that don’t feel repetitive.

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Add FX and Ear Candy to Your Tracks: Tips for Taking Your Sketch to the Next Level

August 23, 2024

Adding FX and ear candy can feel like a daunting task, especially when you start to overthink the process. However, these little details are often what bring a track to life, adding depth, excitement.

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Recreate a Vocal Stutter Effect Like Skrillex: A Step-by-Step Guide

August 21, 2024

If you’ve just stepped into the world of music production, vocal stutters can be a fun and impactful technique to add excitement and energy to your tracks. You’ve heard that fast vocal stutter at...

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Get a Great Sounding Synth: The Deadmau5 Approach

August 21, 2024

If you’ve been experimenting with synthesizers, you know the quest for a perfect synth sound can be a challenging but rewarding process. Whether you’re looking for something clean yet huge, or...

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Make Music Again: Overcoming Creative Burnout Like Pharrell Williams

August 21, 2024

Hey there, fellow music creators! Whether you’re balancing a day job, DJ gigs, and music production, or just feeling creatively stuck, you’re not alone. Many of us hit a wall at some point, where...

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Master Your Craft as a Beatmaker: The J Dilla Way

August 21, 2024

In this article, we’ll explore the most efficient ways to master your creative process as a beatmaker, and how you can learn from one of the most respected producers in the game: J Dilla.

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Bumbershoot Festival 2024: A Creative Celebration in Seattle

August 8, 2024

This Labor Day weekend, Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival returns to Seattle Center from August 31 to September 1, 2024. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Bumbershoot continues to be a...

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Ohana Festival 2024: A Must-Attend Event for Music Creators

August 8, 2024

As the summer winds down and the crisp autumn air begins to roll in, music enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating one of California’s premier music festivals. The Ohana Festival, set to take place...

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Desert Daze 2024: A Creative Oasis for Music Enthusiasts

August 8, 2024

As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the golden tones of fall, the anticipation for one of California’s most eclectic music festivals begins to build. This October, the 2024 Desert Daze music...

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How to Create a Joyful Song Like "Happy" by Pharrell Williams

July 24, 2024

Creating a song that radiates joy and energy, much like Pharrell Williams' hit "Happy," is an exciting challenge for any music creator. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out...

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Why Nas' Illmatic Deserves the Top Spot: Rap Lyricism at its Finest

July 17, 2024

Nas’ debut album, Illmatic, has been crowned the greatest rap album of all time by Billboard, and for good reason. Celebrated for its lyrical brilliance and profound storytelling, Illmatic set...

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Drake & Future’s timeless album: What a Time to be Alive

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Photo Source: NME

Few hip-hop projects have managed to retain their timeless quality to the same extent that Drake and Future's "What a Time to Be Alive" has. This 2015 album's release is more than simply a collection of songs; it's a sonic trip that has crossed generations and cemented itself as a classic in the history of modern hip-hop.Bringing together two colossal figures in modern hip-hop, Drake and Future, "What a Time to Be Alive" is a collaboration that sent shockwaves through the music industry. Both artists were at the peak  of their careers, and this collaboration of amazing artists was nothing short of monumental. The combined force of their talent, creativity, and unique styles produced an album that feels as fresh and exciting  today as it did back then on its original release.

This album's production was largely directed by Metro Boomin who is famous for producing albums such as Savage Mode II, Without warning and even the movie Spider-verse soundtrack. The beats are lavish, complex, and appealing, mixing trap, R&B.  Each rhythm is carefully made, acting as a blank canvas on which Drake and Future express themselves lyrically. The album's "What a Time to Be Alive" production is a model of innovation, showing the classic artistry that serves as its foundation. Upon its release, "What a Time to Be Alive" was nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. It dominated conversations, social media, and charts, leaving an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape. The influence of the album continues to be felt in subsequent musical works, underscoring its lasting cultural impact. Even to this day you may hear some tracks such as "Big Rings", "Jersey”, and last but not least "Jumpman. 

 "What a Time to Be Alive" is more than just an album; it's a time capsule that captures the essence of rap royalty. Its timeless production, introspective lyrics, cultural impact, and enduring influence make it a timeless masterpiece. The collaborative genius of Drake and Future will forever echo through the halls of hip-hop, reminding us of the magic that happens when musical legends unite.