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Sampling is somewhat like collage art in a musical format. By taking snippets of older recordings and rearranging them, producers can create something entirely new while paying homage to the past. Some samples are instantly recognizable, while others are warped, stretched, and chopped beyond recognition. Classic hip hop, epic pop, and electronic anthems alike have been built around carefully chosen samples. In this article, we’re exploring ten of the most iconic samples in music history, breaking down where they came from, and how they were processed. Jump to these sections: What is sampling in music? Who wrote the most sampled song of all time? Iconic samples in music Nas – “N.Y. State of Mind” Kendrick Lamar – “Money Trees”...

House music thrives on its groove, with that human swing adding energy in the studio and on the dance floor. But DAW-based drum programming can sometimes lack authenticity, resulting in robotic grooves that fall short of what a producer wants. That’s why producers like Saraga turn to tools like Maschine to inject creativity and authenticity. Saraga exemplifies the success achievable with standout drum grooves in house music. With the launch of his Stardust record label and debut single “God Is Good” in late January, it’s the perfect time to explore how he leverages Maschine to create infectious grooves. In this interview, we discuss his unique approach to drum programming, keeping drums fresh and alive, layering techniques, and much...

Notable tracks that were added to DJcity this week. View them all here. Download the tracks below. (* indicates DJcity Exclusive) Chris Lake & Ragie Ban – Toxic Feid & Ty Dolla $ign – DALLAX Caldwell & Sexyy Red – Beer And Baddies Fedde Le Grand – Rude Boy Janet Jackson – Someone To Call My Lover – Freejak Remix * Leon Thomas – MUTT – MarkCutz Remix * Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe – KidCutUp vs J Bruus Throwback Intro * NLE Choppa – Slut Me Out – Spryte It Clicked Edit * Estelle (ft. Kanye West) – American Boy – Aurelios Remix Spice Girls – Wannabe – Smochi Remix DJcity’s weekly picks are selected by Sir Marcus. To receive them via email, click here. The post 📢 New Heat From Chris Lake, Feid, Ty Dolla $ign, Sexyy Red, Fedde...

Creating a compelling soundscape is a fundamental part of being a great music producer. One way to enhance your tracks’ sound design is through modulation. With this technique, you can shape the tone of a synth, create movement with effects, and add depth to your music. Once you understand modulation, you’ll start noticing it throughout the music you’re listening to. Then you’ll want to try it out yourself. In this article, we’ll break down what modulation in music is, how it works, and how you can use it to make your tracks more dynamic. We’ll also demonstrate different modulation techniques using synths and effects so you can hear the difference modulation can make for yourself. Jump to these sections: What is modulation in music...

In the first episode of our new series, Beatsource Retro Tech, Mojaxx is revisiting the Dicers from Novation. These unique devices, conceived by Ean Golden of DJ Techtools, were pivotal in introducing Serato DVS users to the possibilities of MIDI controllers. Check out the video to see if these classic DJ tools have stood the test of time. Check out Mojaxx’s video on DJcity TV. The post 🎲 Novation Dicers: A Retro Classic Every DJ Should Know appeared first on DJcity News - Music and news for DJs and producers.

On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome producer, DJ, and creator of @BambaTuesdays, DJ Kash (@DJKashATL). Kash reflects on his journey from attending BeatStreet, where he was inspired by Goldfinger’s (@DJGoldfingerNYC) DJ skills (01:10), to adjusting to life in Atlanta and starting his own party, #BambaTuesdays (04:50). He discusses the importance of picking a genre (08:10) and notes the evolution of Atlanta’s nightlife (15:00). The crew discusses @DJCrooked’s theory of ‘USB Stick Delusion’ (38:12), “gentrified Afro-House” diluting cultures (49:01), and Kash’s top 5 Amapiano tracks (1:10:00). Finally, Kash shares the challenges of maintaining passion for music in Atlanta’s nightlife and the importance of catering...

Screenshot Dynamics are one of the defining features of a mix and something producers at every level are told to focus on if they want loud, punchy results. But with so much information out there – and so many different dynamics controllers, from compressors and limiters to transient shapers and maximizers – it’s hard to know which tool to use and how to get the most out of it. Even once you figure that out, dialing in settings for a professional-quality mix is a whole other challenge. Nobody knows this better than Miami-based duo Black V Neck. Their warm, swing-heavy productions have earned them releases on Dirtybird Records and slots at massive festivals like Insomniac’s EDC. Since first landing on Dirtybird’s Birdfeed in 2018...

These are DJcity’s most downloaded tracks of March 2025. Our monthly charts feature top downloads from around the world, plus regional charts for Latin, UK, Germany, Asia, and South Asia. Drake – NOKIA Doechii – Anxiety Sean Paul – Temperature – DJ Serg Sniper Remix Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive – FRASER Remix Mousse T. & Hot ‘N’ Juicy – Horny – Freejak Remix Burna Boy – Update Doechii – Anxiety – Sir Marcus & MarkCutz Remix Maroon 5 – Sugar – Colin Jay Remix Jason Derulo (ft. 2 Chainz) – Talk Dirty – Richastic Remix 310babii & James Brown – bad View the full list here. The post 🏆 DJcity’s Top Downloads for March 2025 – Don’t Miss These Hits appeared first on DJcity News - Music and news for DJs and producers.

Timeless sound in music production is a concept that often defies easy explanation but is that ephemeral gold standard that all music producers seem to chase. For St. Lucia, it’s about blending the foundational elements of past eras with subtle modern touches, crafting something that feels familiar yet distinct. Their latest album, Fata Morgana: Dawn, expands on this approach, drawing inspiration from 1960s and 1970s psychedelic pop, the pre-1980s NYC dance scene, and classic film scores. Mixed by Chris Zane (Jack Antonoff, Passion Pit, The Walkmen), the record balances organic band performances with orchestral elements, pushing their sound further than ever. In this interview, St. Lucia shares how tools like Native Instruments’...

What is the phaser effect Alongside chorus and flanger effects, phasers complete the trilogy of popular “modulation” effects. Modulation effects change the texture sound over time, and phasers are often used to give sounds a smooth textural movement. Unlike chorus and flanger effects, phasers don’t use delay lines to create their characteristic sounds, rather using a special type of filter, and give a slightly less dramatic result compared to flangers. Phasers can be used to add stereo width to sounds, thin them out in the mix, and give them an intriguing textural movement. In this guide we’ll show you how to use phaser effects both creatively and in a mixing context to help you make your best tracks yet. Jump to these sections...

Pluggnb music, a fusion of trap mixed with synthetic, jazzy elements is quickly becoming mainstream. Characterized by its hazy, atmospheric soundscapes, bouncy 808s, and often melancholic vocals, pluggnb captures a distinct mood. In this tutorial, we will define the core elements of pluggnb, exploring its key characteristics and providing a step-by-step guide to help you craft your own pluggnb tracks, from sound selection and drum programming to melody creation and arrangement. Jump to these sections: What is pluggnb music? How to make a pluggnb beat Compose a chord progression Program drums Add a heavy 808-style bass Make a guitar melody Create a counter-melody Add a touch of piano Arrange your beat Master your beat What is...

GRAMMY-nominated DJ and producer FISHER is kicking off 2025 with a bang, releasing his latest single, ‘Stay’, on March 21st via CATCH & RELEASE. The track delivers a dreamy, summer-infused drop with a catchy vocal sample from Exile’s ‘Kiss You All Over’, setting the tone for the festival season ahead. Beyond the music, FISHER is making waves across the globe with a stacked tour schedule. His OUT 2 LUNCH Festival returns to The Gold Coast this May, now expanded to two days. He’s also set to take over Ibiza this summer, launching a new UNVRS residency from June to September, ensuring his signature sound dominates dance floors all season. With headline slots at Tomorrowland, Space Miami, and a sold-out London event, FISHER’s 2025 is...

Notable tracks that were added to DJcity this week. View them all here. Download the tracks below. (* indicates DJcity Exclusive) Jack Harlow (ft. Doja Cat) – Just Us James Hype – Don’t Wake Me Up Jonas Brothers – Love Me To Heaven Max Rae & Montell Jordan – How We Do It FloyyMenor & J Balvin – BANSHEE – Da Phonk Club Edit * Chappell Roan – Pink Pony Club – Colin Jay Remix Ludacris (ft. Mystikal & I-20) – Move Bitch – PAJANE Remix Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT. – DJ Juize Hype Edit Drake – NOKIA – Hills Remix Kendrick Lamar (ft. Lefty Gunplay) – tv off – KOREX & YDDE AKZ Remix DJcity’s weekly picks are selected by Sir Marcus. To receive them via email, click here. The post 🚨🚨Download New Music From Doja Cat, Jack Harlow, James Hype...

Traktor is a DJ powerhouse. From its robust track analysis and beat-matching capabilities to advanced features like remix decks and stem control, Traktor empowers DJs to seamlessly blend tracks, experiment with effects, and deliver dynamic performances. And now, Crossfader is offering beginner and intermediate Traktor courses, opening up new pathways for aspiring and developing DJs. Free classes: Two free classes courtesy of Crossfader that cover how to set hot cues and how to use advanced FX in Traktor Beginner Course: Covers the basics of Traktor, from setup to essential mixing techniques Intermediate Course: Designed for DJs who want to level up their skills, exploring advanced mixing techniques and creative DJing Whether you’re...

Silent discos have become increasingly popular, offering an innovative way for people to enjoy live music while keeping noise levels in check. In a silent disco, participants wear wireless headphones, and multiple channels are transmitted simultaneously, allowing them to switch between DJs or music genres during the event. For DJs, this creates a unique challenge and opportunity, as you need to be able to manage multi-channel audio and keep the energy flowing while everyone listens on their own personal sound systems. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential strategies and tips for DJing at a silent disco, with a particular focus on how to handle multi-channel setups and make the most of the technology involved. What is a Silent...

On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome Brooklyn-based mixtape DJ, remixer, and hip-hop producer J.Period (@jperiodbk), with guest host @DJGoldfingerNYC. J.Period reflects on his journey in the music industry, starting with his early mixtapes in the 2000s (00:31), and discusses the creation of iconic projects like “Best of Nas” (9:31). He credits pivotal moments, such as his Big Daddy Kane and Lauryn Hill mixtapes, with propelling his success (19:01). J.Period also shares insights into his work with Q-Tip and De La Soul (29:01) and reveals that his mixtapes will soon be available on Apple Music (41:01). He reflects on the influence of figures like Questlove and his approach to collaborations (54:01), as well as...

It’s never been easier to explore unique harmonic structures in your music. The new User Chords feature in Maschine 3 lets you easily craft unique chords and tailor your sound, all with an easy-to-use interface, real-time preview and editing, and more. See User Chords in action with Product Specialist Matt Lara. Here are some of the key highlights of the new User Chords that can help you elevate your sound: Explore unique harmonic structures: Go beyond standard chord voicings and create entirely new and interesting harmonic combinations, unlocking possibilities for more original and distinctive musical ideas. Tailor your sound to specific genres: Craft sounds that are suited to the nuances and harmonic characteristics of different...

Stay ahead of the game with DJcity Playlists – your monthly guide to the hottest club tracks, handpicked by top DJs from around the world. Explore standout tracks from every genre and keep the dancefloor moving. GLOBAL BASS DANCE MAIN STAGE REGIONAL HIP HOP & R&B POP LATIN AFRICAN UK HIP HOP DE / GERMANY SOUTH ASIAN View all the updated playlists here. The post Must-Hear Tracks: DJcity’s Essential Playlists for March 2025 appeared first on DJcity News - Music and news for DJs and producers.

DJcity have a special Spring offer for new users – Until April 1st 2025, you can get 2 months of DJcity for just $10, using the code SPRING25 – https://www.djcity.com/offer/spring25 To commemorate this, Mojaxx has put together 5 tips on ways to Spring Clean your music library, on a special throwback edition of DJcity Tips & Tricks. Check out Mojaxx’s Spring Cleaning video on DJcity TV. The post Spring Into Action: Tidy Up Your DJ Music Library appeared first on DJcity News - Music and news for DJs and producers.

Audio mastering is the final step that transforms a track from good to great, ensuring it sounds polished, powerful, and ready to shine on any sound system – from intimate settings to massive festival stages. While some producers prefer to hand off this crucial stage to experts, others, like Avoure, take full creative control, mastering their own tracks with precision and intent. With tools like iZotope Ozone, mastering has never been more accessible, allowing producers to harness the power of digital and analog techniques in one streamlined package without breaking the bank by investing in thousands of dollars of analog hardware. Avoure’s process is a perfect example of how to bring analog warmth into a modern, digital workflow. With...