There have been significant changes in the music production industry over the last few decades. Today, talented producers can turn to production apps to create innovative sounds. With just a few clicks, artists can connect and collaborate with fellow musicians from all around the world. In this article, we talk about the role of production apps in artist collaboration and how they have permanently disrupted the music business.
The Changing Landscape of Music Production
We have come a long way since the invention of the phonograph in 1877. With the rise of technology, producers have accessed new and better ways to create music at an incomparable speed. Before the invention of music apps, beat making involved considerable resources. Analog tape machines and sound engineers didn’t come cheap, so only a few privileged creators were able to bring their sounds to life.
The days of dusty recording studios are long gone. Anyone who is willing can now pursue a career in beat making by installing a production app on their computer. Digital audio workstations (DAW) are now more accessible than ever, allowing all types of creatives to explore their craft and find their own voice.
The Influence of Beat Maker Apps on Artist Collaboration
The emergence of music production apps has forever changed the way artists collaborate. Through DAWs such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and BeatConnect, producers can create or modify tracks on one single platform, even if they are kilometres apart. Some music maker apps even offer a video call feature, allowing musicians to hop on a call at a moment’s notice to work on a song simultaneously.
Examples of Successful Music App Collaborations
Among successful examples of collaborations facilitated by production apps, you may know Seeb’s remix of “I Took a Pill in Ibiza”. Originally written as an acoustic song by Mike Posner, the track went on to become an international hit once the Norwegian production team turned it into a tropical house dance anthem.
Another great example of music app collaboration is The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey’s song, “Closer”. The chart-topping track was mixed by Canadian musical genius DJ Swivel. His name might ring a bell or two from his extensive work with international star Beyoncé. After The Chainsmokers finished recording their vocals on Ableton, DJ Swivel imported them as Wave files into his Pro Tools template. He then adjusted each musical element until he obtained the sound that got millions of people dancing.
Key Music Production Apps That You Should Keep in Mind
There are plenty of music production apps available for musicians of all levels. Here are a few key music apps that you should keep in mind if you are looking to produce your own beats.
For Beginner producers: GarageBand
GarageBand is Apple’s beginner-friendly beat-maker app. It features a wide range of virtual instruments, basslines, presets and loops as well as an intuitive interface. This music app is the perfect solution for new creatives who are beginning to dive into music production.
For proficient producers: BeatConnect
BeatConnect is one of the most collaborative DAWs in the market. The platform’s multiple functionalities allow music producers to work on international projects without setting foot on a studio. Among its most interesting features you’ll find cross-DAW compatibility, video chat, and cloud storage. Instead of having to download your files and upload them to your partner’s DAW, you can now both work on the same platform. This music app also features a Beat Battle system, allowing music producers to connect with fellow musicians and showcase their skills to a worldwide audience. And the best part is that it’s completely free.
For expert producers: Ableton Live
While Ableton is considered a flexible music app, it remains a powerful DAW. It allows musicians to explore different soundscapes with its versatile features, such as advanced clip editing and its “Session View” functionality. But one of the most interesting features of Ableton Live, is the possibility to adjust songs during live performances. Musicians can change a song’s tempo or pitch during a show, offering a unique performance to the crowd.
The Impact of Remote Collaboration on the Music Industry
The invention of production apps such as GarageBand, BeatConnect, and Ableton Live has forever changed the music business. By making remote collaboration possible, these powerful DAWs have opened up brand-new possibilities for musicians across the world.
Geographical Freedom
Thanks to music apps, a creator based in New York can now work seamlessly with a producer based in Tokyo. Production apps offer unparalleled creative freedom, and there has never been a time in history when different cultural backgrounds and musical styles could merge so easily.
Lockdown Workaround
Remote collaboration in music was particularly important during global events such as the Covid-19 pandemic. Musicians quickly adapted to lockdown constraints and learned on the go as they explored new ways to make beats.
The Future of Music Collaboration
Technology will undoubtedly continue to influence the way music is made in the decades to come. As beat makers explore new ways to create experiences for consumers, the music industry will continue to evolve.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
Some creators are turning to AR and even VR to take their music to the next level. For example, the company Vrtify offers more than 5,000 hours of musical content in virtual and mixed reality. They also worked closely with artists such as Coldplay, Florence and the Machine and Sting to shoot 360 concert videos for their fans.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology could also be a potential solution to some of the challenges that artists face in the music industry. Whether it’s fair compensation for their work through smart contracts or higher revenue through decentralized music distribution, this technology paints a bright future for artists around the world.
Tips for Optimal Use of Production Apps
Are you looking to collaborate with other artists? Here are some tips that will help you take full advantage of production apps.
Get a grip on some music theory.
Explore your music app through trial and error.
Establish a workflow with your partners.
Choose your main communication channel.
Test your music on multiple sound systems.
Ask for constructive feedback from your peers.
Music apps are here to stay. These powerful beat-making platforms allow musicians from all over the world to test their skills and explore innovative sounds. From remote collaborations to exciting editing features, production apps offer endless possibilities. If you are also looking for the best free music app for you, make sure to try out BeatConnect and sign up for your first Beat Battle!