Starting a new track can be one of the most exciting yet frustrating parts of music production. Do you ever find yourself aimlessly jamming, hoping inspiration will strike? Or maybe you drop in a kick and bass, but something feels off? If so, you’re not alone!
In my latest YouTube video, I share a structured approach to starting your tracks with a clear vision. Instead of relying purely on trial and error, I explain how planning ahead can dramatically improve your workflow, helping you create faster, more intentional music.
Why Planning Your Track Matters
We live in an era of unlimited choices—hundreds of samples, synth presets, and endless plugins. While this is great, it can also lead to decision fatigue and slow you down. Instead of jumping in blindly, I recommend:
✅ Choosing Your Emotional Direction:Decide the mood and feel before selecting sounds. Is it dark and hypnotic? Deep and progressive? Writing this down helps narrow your choices.
✅ Picking the Right Tonality:Keys like D# and C# tend to feel darker, while A can be more uplifting. Knowing this helps you shape the vibe early.
✅ Selecting Kick & Bass for the Emotion:Not all kicks fit every track! If you want deep and hypnotic music, avoid overly punchy kicks with too many mids and highs.
✅ Creating a Sound Library:Having a go-to collection of samples, atmospheres, and effects speeds up your workflow and keeps you inspired.
Using AI & Modern Tools to Start Faster
AI tools like ChatGPT can be useful for generating ideas. In the video, I tested ChatGPT’s recommendations for keys and found that some suggestions aligned with my instincts, while others didn’t. This can be a great way to explore new tonalities, especially when you’re stuck!
Another way to work faster is by collecting sounds in advance. Instead of searching for the perfect atmospheric pad mid-session, have a folder of go-to textures, FX, and presets. This allows you to focus on creativity instead of getting lost in technical choices.
The Power of Sound Selection & Processing
🎛️ Choosing the right elements is key! In the video, I demonstrate:
🎵 How to tweak kicks to match your track’s energy🎵 Why square wave basslines create a deeper sound🎵 How different harmonics impact the final vibe🎵 The role of reverb, delay, and processing in creating depth
For instance, when designing psytrance kicks, processing plays a bigger role than synthesis. By adjusting the attack, frequency curve, and phase distortion, you can shape a kick to fit your desired style. Similarly, using delays and reverbs creatively helps create atmospheric depth and movement.
Want to Master Psytrance Sound Design? 🚀
If you're serious about improving your sound, I’ve launched a Psytrance Sound Design Course where I break down everything—from creating powerful kicks and basslines to advanced sound design techniques.
👉 Join the course here: https://www.eclipmusic.com/challenge-payment/psytrancesoundesign
This course is perfect if you want to:✔️ Learn professional psytrance production techniques✔️ Understand how to create hypnotic atmospheres & sequences✔️ Develop a unique and polished sound
Final Thoughts – Speed Up Your Workflow!
By planning ahead and choosing the right elements early, you can save hours of frustration and finish tracks faster. Whether you’re making deep, hypnotic, or high-energy psytrance, a structured approach will help you stay focused and creative.
🎥 Watch the full tutorial now:
What’s your approach to starting a track? Let me know in the comments below!
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