I'll be 51 next week and I still to this day keep up with the way sounds of music is evolving. Can't be stuck in the past but still stick to the roots.
I think each person has to do what is organic and natural. If u do new sound and ya know classic sounds you have the option of broad and amazing things.
We were not on a whole other wave. We respected the artist that came before us. The Run DMC's, the KRS One's, the Rakims, took what they did and elevated it. We learned from them. These kids nowadays have not learned from the era that came before them. They are making simple, low vibrational music. They are afraid to use their brains and come up with clever word play, and witty bars. Even the new producers Like Mustard and Metro are not crate diggers like the producers of our era. They don't sample, they can't chop soul, and their beats end up sounding cheap and weak. Our music was more authentic in part because it was connected to the music our parents listened to. Then to prove just how dope the producers from our era were, they would find sounds to sample on records nobody ever heard of. They sampled different types of music and made dope beats out of them. These young mf's completely turned the game upside down.
The problem is Older Producers are thinking they have to make music for Teenie Boopers to make money. Chasing waves instead of just creating what comes from your heart & soul is a Bigger Issue. My advise is Just Make Good Music & The Artist thats meant for your music will find you.
Exactly, I know my production style/ skill set and if I was to try to produce like the younger producers I would get laughed out the room because that is not me. Now I'm not just making boom bap but I'm talking about that ovoxo sound and that older trap sound. That is my pocket, I don't work with 100s of artists but I have a healthy rotation of artist that come to me for beats.
I completely agree. Focusing on trends can often lead to losing sight of what makes your music unique. Creating from the heart and staying true to your style will always resonate with the right audience. The artists who connect with your music will find it, and that’s the key to longevity in the industry.
I’m 46 .. some stuff just ain’t my bop.. I make music for spitters/ lyricists. Boom bap with up to date techniques and sounds. There is no “bring back” something that is a staple .. removing the boom bap is like taking the guitar out of rock n roll or the sax out of jazz.
Boom bap drums were never essential to hip hop. Hip hop got its start with disco rap, which doesn't have boom bap style drums, then there's the miami bass and memphis rap scenes. Both of which never relied on boom bap drums but were extremely important to old school hip hop
@Sergio-nb4hj I agree to a certain extent. But hiphop started with dj's spinnin breakbeats. So the drum is the basis but that doesn't mean it can't be other things. I love the drumless productions that are going on in the underground scene as well.
@@Sergio-nb4hj you’re speaking of the time when beat machines and samplers weren’t being used because Hip Hop was too new.. all of that changed once Run-DMC came out.. but b4 that, using break beats laid the foundation for later.. something tells me we have different outlooks on what “Boom Bap” actually is.
100% true, let alone the fact that many kids also recognize that the music of their generation ain't as good as the previous ones, especially the 80's and 90's...
@elketerbentzadik Bolo's context in this video is about producing in the context of the industry, i.e. label, indy, streams, social media, charts, radio, ect... This is not about what you feel or what you love to do in your spare time; it's about what the reality is, when you're an older producer, in this game / business.
@@BoloDaProducer A forward-thinking mentality is good. Still, the funny thing is that many of the "new" beats sound like the older 80s stuff. The better beats of the late 80s and 90s were innovative and forward-sounding. Even the samples were from records that were ahead of their time or just extremely musically advanced. The simplistic beats that are deemed "new" today are actually a step back. So I look at it as returning to the old days more than trying to sound "current." For example, Future's "Like That" was one of the biggest records of this past spring. Kids loved that track. It's cool but really nothing but an updated version of Rodney O and Joe Cooley's "Everlasting Bass" from '88 which itself drew a lot from Finesse and Synquis' "Bass Game" from '87. The main thing I take from this is give them what they want period.
Fact is... the 2000 - 2010 music used the samples of the '80s & '90s, which used the originals from the '60s & '70s. Now some of the current producers use the 2000 - 2010 samples today. It's coming full circle, the artist and producers of today just don't know their history of music. It's borderline disrespectful.
@@veegee1974 Them lacking of knowing history of the music they love in the information age while they're stuck on their smartphone pushes it pass borderline.
I hear what you're saying (52 years old here), and i agree with 100%, but let me say one word "Griselda".They showed how an "older" sound can be made current.
Then you've got The Alchemist and Dj Muggs, proving that if you know Hip Hop you can continue to do sample based music without following new trends and sounds, collaborate with the younger generation, still be relevant and put out bangers!
E X A C T L Y You need an original no AI fully written, performed and produced Indie, Pop, Hip Hop, Jazz, Synth, Funk or Rock song? Sure no problem. Pick a key. Beat makers ain't real producers.
Respect Bolo for this video.. over 40 but been at it forever. It's a passion so I can't stop. Quincy Jones had a monster hit at 50 so I stay optimistic At this point: i want a legacy, the money will come!
Right my son's are now getting into it and I got it from my dad always had a studio in the house sing and play 7 instruments took it for granted want to be in the streets more so got to it late but always knew the craft
I only agree with this if you're trying to chase broad mainstream success. Most of my music sound like synthwave/old school video game music and I ain't trying to change that. The people who like it, really enjoy it. I'd rather create a niche product from my heart and soul instead of chasing waves. I don't ride waves. I cruise in my own lane.
This is the comment as someone who don’t ride waves your own path is where it’s at. Because you cater to what you enjoy and bring people closer not only that you create what’s unique. Like you said u follow trends for only the mainstream as it’s always evolving at the end u can combine the two if u chose too.
yup! chasing waves only kills careers, I've seen it for decades. The ones who start the waves, survive and the rest die out. That's why RZA, Swiss, Dre etc are still around but their imitators are done.
The thing about that is, These kids arent moving any units the Music industry is failing right now and it will eventually go back to musicianship and real song writing because the money aint there right now in one they are doing.
You als0o can't sustain a career by just imitating what yo used in the market. Derringer is just as current as Metro Boomin for example. Some folks just hyper focus on what the radio runs into the ground and fool themselves into thinking that's the only thing that works.
If I'm always chasing a trend, I'm always behind them trying to catch up. Trends get set by the originators who are on their own lane waiting for people to come to them.
I’m 54 and started learning to make beats four years ago just for fun. I also work on animation and believe that all music connects to its roots, just with updated elements. You’re absolutely right-you can’t force old styles on new generations; they won’t connect with it. Instead, it’s essential to understand what’s new, learn why people love it, and apply those ideas. Each generation creates what moves them to their groove. As someone from the 70s generation, I’ve seen massive changes in how music is made and produced. Keep up with the great videos and music!
would you mind mentioning some resources you have used for learning. i'm very new to beat making. still trying to figure out all the functions of my DAW. i feel like it's harder to retain all the information now cause i'm a bit older.
I'm 62, and enjoyed some success during the late 90's/early 2000's. Semi-retired and enjoying the amazing tools available today. Got all my clones, got all the monos/polys I need...a few digital. But my newest purchase, the MPC Key37, is my dream machine. Got it three days ago and am like a duck to water with this thing. A fantastic time to be an electronic musician!
Bolo, I appreciate this conversation, young brother. Admittedly, I’m one of those producers who still loves the old school sound and find genuine happiness in reproducing music that sounds that way. One of the things the “Auditorium, Vol. 1” did for me was reassure me that an audience for that classic sound is still out there. What are your thoughts on marketing the niche sound to that specific audience, without alienating the younger crowd? Thanks for all you do for the community, brother.
Expand your reach!! Those pop and European artists eat that shit up all day. Urban artist are one dimensional. Most of the urban music sound exactly the same song after song same sounds same patterns FIND AND DEFINE your audience. Stop trying to be the creepy old guy in the club. Go find that underground hip hop scene that want what you got, all those 90s R&B artist are still outside find them and breath life into their music. Chasing money will have you out here colorful as hell wearing speedos.
Retro beats are coming back big time, lot of old Soul vibes coming to the new music. Then there is all the Afrobeats stuff like amapiano exploding. In Korean pop they are using old beats like New Jack Swing but speeding it up a bit and with more modern samples. I hear what your saying though it’s having that OG knowledge and still bridging the gap.
I totally agree if you're trying to work with younger artists yes By all means stay up to date...... but I've also heard a lot of younger people who are now discovering nineties and early 2000s Hip Hop and they are fascinated with the music because it sounds so different than what they know and the song structure is much better...... they always say that the Beats were much more simpler but effective
@BoloDaProducer I keep watching DJ reaction channels it is like they discovered gold give me a... and they all say the same thing...... it's something so real about it...... the music that they listen to now they're going to outgrow as adults give me a. But that old school s*** a lot of about real life and that's what they want to hear alarm say they can't even go back to listening to the current unless they're in a club
I strongly disagree here is why kendrick Lamar was able to beat drake in the beef by rapping like a old schooler so that’s mean there is a huge audience that is starving for that type of hip hop 2 Atlantic records drop like 50 artists 3 Gucci mane drop like his whole label 4 Kendrick Lamar is performing at the Super Bowl where is your modern artist at The point what I’m getting at you cannot as a artists put out all that crazy music and expect to become that major artist no matter what era we are in These artists these days are only going to make it so far you must produce music that everybody can feel and guess what ice cube just drop a song that went viral and he’s a grandpa there a multimillion dollar audience that still want that soul hip hop it is what it is
Kendrick could drop an album that sounds like the last poets and mfs would love it tho. I understand what bolo is saying too. You just gotta fit in where you fit in. Im 24 and do primarily sample based stuff, I gotta say the past 10 year with Al's evolution and all the gxfr movement has influenced me a lot, there's a big difference between the 90s sp1200 style shit and the drumless, slower, more deliberately lofi stuff that's hot now. Its just not "clubby." And not everything should be. But again, get in where you fit in.
Kendrick could drop an album that sounds like the last poets and mfs would love it tho. I understand what bolo is saying too. You just gotta fit in where you fit in. Im 24 and do primarily sample based stuff, I gotta say the past 10 year with Al's evolution and all the gxfr movement has influenced me a lot, there's a big difference between the 90s sp1200 style shit and the drumless, slower, more deliberately lofi stuff that's hot now. Its just not "clubby." And not everything should be. But again, get in where you fit in.
I understand Kendrick but Dot is like us that's his bread and butter, he's not like in his 20s anymore. An artist in their 20s is not hopping on slow sample beats that's drumless maybe if they're a singer
Im 40 years old and this is great advice, thank you. This can also apply to not just music but other topics in life in general when being around or interacting with people much younger than oneself.
its horrible advice. In life in general, we do not think its normal for middle aged people to be going to the clubs to hang out with the young's and act like we're on their level. Its embarrassing.
Bolo this is very good advise bro I just turned 41.. and honestly I’m doing both making beats for young artists and older artist… but definitely they ain’t trying to hear those old school beats.. and the best way for them is to sample old school but make sure your drums are modern and the patterns are on point
With all due respect Bolo, that's a subjective opinion, my dude. 56 here and I literally just ended a session with one of my up and coming artists who is in his twenties and he digs that old school sh!t.
Exactly, and older producers who follow these kinds of guidelines are the same ones who will then complain about how similar all the beats are when they themselves are part of the problem...
throwback 90s i what i like and all i will ever do. if the youngsters don't like it idc. But i'm not tryin to make a career out of it. If you're trying to make a career out of it i agree with this guy
I'm 48 and I enjoy cooking up beats and releasing them independently.. you would be surprised at the BMI statements to see where your spins are coming from especially in clubs.. performance royalties etc
I need to learn how to do that. I’m just a hobbyist, but I have some heat. I just need to learn how to monetize and I don’t really want to have people coming to my studio because people be thirsty.
Really good advice. I started my first studio in 1980 and all that classic hardware I financed back then is still going strong as VST's. I'm 67 now and my number one thing whether it's DJ or recording is don't get stuck in the past. I regularly listen to top 20 lists from around the world. All my guys my age are stuck like you said.
Sound advice. There is definitely a lane for boombap, just as there is a lane for jazz or salsa. Notice Bolo kept saying the young kids now, and if you want young kids business and to be on mainstream top 20 and compete for those spots, you have to sound current. Maybe it’s my feed, but I am hearing a lot of young kids do a lot of boombap beats though, definitely not in the top billboard 20 but the genre is still strong.
One thing u also shouldn’t do is dumb down your abilities and production style to cater to younger artists, or try to “fit in” with the new crowd or younger artists. The best thing you can do IF UR OLDER is take what you know and your methods and style, and see how you can INTEGRATE that into a newer vibe that even younger dudes would rock with. Just don’t drop your formula and try to dumb yourself down.
I'm 48 & on my own to time....I still get paid working on Boom Bap Beats & my music is incredible. I started DJing when I was in high school....then I became a instrumentalist. Now I'm creating musical magic....check this how I do it is....I allow my clients generation to determine what best I'm give them. The young people using want me to produce a "Trap" or "Drill" beat. My old heads usually want Boom Bap & Soulful hip hop beats ...I had a client that was 19 an inspiring rapper wanted 90's style beats....so I gave him that kind of beat. Don't limited yourself just stuck in the past or too futuristic...Master all types of styles of beats.....this way not only you will be always relevant. But you get old money...current money.....& Tomorrow's money.... 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
Well yes... but no... I would agree with you 100%... Until you notice the youth of today are largely less talented and less creative than when I was "coming up". That's why much of today's music is based on "beats" featuring samples of older music. It was unusual to see more than three names in the songwriter credits back in the 70's (and unusually it was two or one). Now it's not unusual to see 6, 7, even 8 "songwriters" in the credits for a song (even more)!!! So I think you're spot-on telling us "punks" not to impose our aesthetics on the youngsters, yes, but the reason some of us might have a hard time understanding why they might not be interested in our new tracks is because most of "their" music is based on "our" music. (Actually, it's more than _based on_ our music; it usually _is_ our music!)
I've been producing for a very long time, since the mid 90's. I will never tailor my sounds for these kids, I don't care about money, its about the craft and the love of music production. Boom Bap is in my blood, and I will continue to do it. If these kids don't dig it...oh well I 'll move on to the next. There are plenty of really dope artists out there that don't ride the trap rap wave. Its all about tapping into the right demographics. There are still alot of "older" heads that are incredible lyricists. Look at Roc Marci who is still dropping bangers with Uncle Al, as others mentions the Griselda movement, Willie the Kid, CrimeApple, Hus Kingpin, Skyzoo, Blu, Joey Bad, Mach... etc, etc....there are TONS out there.
nah. there are no "absolute rules" in hip hop.. the art form had us rapping over every genre with no restrictions.. so you can't gatekeep who can rap over what.. if im sampling/scratching the beatles and rolling stones into my tracks in 1984 then breaking those same conventions in 2024 is a no brainer.. i get people get on line and rage bait for content and engagement, but like humpty hump said: "doowutchalike"
Simply put... Older cats; don't chase waves and stay true to your own art.. Stay in your lane.. People that dig it are gonna dig it regardless. I wouldn't worry too much about what the young cats think of our productions.. If it makes you happy and feeds your soul; do it.. A lot of the young cats don't even value their own productions after a few months; because they so generic.. I'm just saying, your roots mean a lot in the depth of how your music sounds and feels.. Some young cats get it; but most don't.. Do you and do your music is the point! These 100% sample and stem based songs are going to wash out eventually and cats are going to gravitate back towards "core" production. These "new" production techniques are going to saturate the listeners ears eventually and "real" authenticity will come back in music...
I don't make music for kids I make music for people that like my music! This is straight up bad advice that I highly disagree with! Even the Bible warns of thinking in this way!
Yea this definitely hit you personally oldhead. This video is for PROFESSIONAL or ASPIRING PROFESSIONALS not hobbyist. If you make music for yourself and don’t want to make money from it then there is no problem with your thought process.
I’m so glad you gave this message. As a 54 year old producer I run my tracks by my boys, 10-16. If they don’t rock with it, that ain’t it. I still have my music for me and a fan base. Have to be real with yourself. New Jack Swing might have a resurgence. 😂😂😂
You are absolutely correct on this. I know I’m old and all of the dudes that use my beats today are around my age. I’m 54 and my biggest credit was a Kool G Rap remix that I did with Dj Mister Cee(RIP), on the Rated XXX album called “Enter The Dragon” & “Lifestyles of the rich and famous”. I produce now for myself and my old friends. I don’t ever expect to make any real impact money or noise with what I produce. I do it for fun and for the memories. You are 100% right brother.
That maybe the reason why the wide appeal of hip hop is declining, because of the current sound that’s been placed in the forefront…and it’s been out for a while now, so shouldn’t it be considered “old” by now….i have my own style…comprised of influential genres like neo soul, hip hop, psychedelic, funk, and pop…..I’ll just say, be creative..be you… there’s an artist for everything
I’m not following or making music for them. I’m making music for me. There’s so much music they’ve never even heard. After a 20 y.o. “discovers” something we’ve been told to leave alone, we’re going to feel like we “missed” another wave.
My clientele is just not gonna be people who don't feel that soulful boom bap sound. That's what I do. And I can add the new sample pack vibe into it, but overall, it's gonna have that boom bap in it, even if its just the bass and the drums.
What you said at 3:44 is really important and I think deserves its own video. If you just blindly play tracks from the last ten years it’s real hard to tell what year they are from. It’s not hard to stick to this lane but it is like of boring. Age shouldnt matter as long as you are flexible
I think some artist’s (not all) should stay true to themselves and their sound. Not that they can’t evolve, but if they the type of artist that like that sound that’s mostly associated with 80’s, 70’s then they should not do anything different because it messes up the brand. Good example is Ghostface or MFDoom, Swingout Sister
U make a good point, it’s a fine line between giving good guidance and promoting a lack of quality. There may be some basic things that will tend to always work well. I think artist who are super picky about beats should push themselves to be more creative and be ready to create to any kind of beat. Now days there’s room for just about anything production wise.
Make what you love and find somebody else who loves it too. If not just keep it and jam it for your own enjoyment. Matter of fact all my music is for my own enjoyment. If somebody hears it and likes it, cool. If they don’t, then as Bolo used to say: I really don’t care.
Good video bolo i'm 54 and STILL at it! I also embraced this new wave of production. Not in it's entirety but some of these new ways of putting a great song together is cool. This one resonated with me as an elder statesman in the game.
I totally get where you are coming from and why you say this, but boom bap has really made a comeback. I think of Coast Contra, Griselda, Joey Bada$$, Marlon Craft, Logic, etc. You even hear it in more mainstream hits like "Players" from Coi Leray. I also see a lot of the old artists like Nas and Method Man finding their way to the next generation. They use new school beats, but also still rock the 90s sound. The kids are really into it too. I'm all for reinventing yourself, but I won't dismiss boom bap as something for old people and a handful youngsters :)
The looped soul sample with lite percussion aka drumless is a big reason for this new wave. There is definitely some updated Boom Bap being made but I think it's the mix of the two styles that is fueling the renaissance.
Producer BandPlay (Young Dolph’s producer) is the person to credit for Big X The Plug’s bangers Him and Cash Cobain sample some good music from the past Don’t count out the old school Summer Walkers biggest song right now “Heart of a Woman” is very simple old school
Thank you so much for the information it helps me as a Songwriter and Producer keeping current when helping people keep open to learning new a fresh ideas and ways of doing things keeps you growing and moving forward ❣️
Ill be 50th next month i did a few collaborations this year with younger artists worked out well they weren't major artists still i learned a lot from the experience i plan on doing more collaborations in 2025 young or old artists. 🙏🏾
I'm glad somebody finally said this, because Iv'e been feeling like this since 2014. It's very important as a producer to stay up to date with the current sound even if you don't like it. Try to add your spin on it with a artist of today and make history.
Love it! Well said. I tip my hat to you Bolo! I've seen it, how Old School producers thumb their nose up at today's so-called "producers" claiming they are just throwing loops together and have no idea what they are actually doing. (..I used to be one of those guys) But what I see and have come to understand is you need to embrace this and appreciate how music making has evolved. It's all a creative process and you need to adapt to the times to BE and STAY current. Learn something. Doesn't mean your old school tactics are irrelevant, hell I find myself teaching young producers all kinds of cool stuff they don't know about/ and I've learned all kinds of new ways younger people create. It's awesome. Embrace it! What it all comes down to in the end is.... the song anyways. I'm 58 and successful making music professionally for 38 years!
Children may not but it did make it into a movie which is another way that people can make money on music that sounds 'dated' as he put it. Every time a movie or TV show, or even video game, has to come up with background music for something that is supposed to be happening from 1980's-2010's then they are going to look for music that sounds like that era to try to bring people into the feeling of that time and that is an opportunity for people who make music that is still reminiscent of those eras. Especially if they just want that sound w/o paying to license an actual hit from then.
i had to look this dude up.. he did watch me whip/nae nae🤦🏽♂️ nothing major after that.. so that was him doing a "young person style" even back then🤨 i think HE was still chasing that young sound unsuccessfully and is now projecting on everyone else🤣🤣🤣🤣
Bolo, you bring up excellent points. As a musician, i have learned that i still like to make music in the more traditional ways of my era, but that does not often translate into the ears of listeners today. I think one approach possibly for producers is too listen to some of the hottest / likable artist of today and see how their production can inspire you to make more modern sounding takes. As a musician, you can always make things for yourself that you resonate with and make some things for other listeners. Overall , great points again in your analysis. Very informative post.
Big X Tha Plug is from Dallas where I'm from. His entire sound is older samples. Every sing on his new album is sample, primarily soul samples. He doesn't sound like anyone in his age range and that's why he stands out and he's the hottest thing in Texas. I hate these type of discussions honestly. Art is supposed to be a personal expression. There are no rules. And following the lead of people half my age is just not a mature way of thinking. I agree forcing ideas on anybody of ANY AGE is a bad idea. Elders shoukd always teach the youth, not vice versa. This is why music is so bad nowadays. Young people have a lack of respect for older music because people my age don't teach them shit. I have a 17 year old son that's a songwriter and is learning to play the piano for real. He absolutely HATES modern rap. Myself amd his mom always exposed hin to real music amd that shaped his ear. I bring younger people into my world as an OG and they realize where all of the shit they like comes from. When i do a deep dive on Three 6 Mafia they always are amazed amd realize that they are the modern day blueprint. We gotta step up as elders in the hop hop community. Nobody needs to be stuck in the 80's or 90's but always remember to respect the architects. I'm always with being the next wave insteadbof riding the current one anyway.
Facts, it's weird for an og to be making drill and turn up beats. I feel like you should have evolved into r&b and other production styles at 40+ years old. Start making grown folks music and not baby beats nursery rhyme melodies. 😂😂
Totally agree. Unfortunately, the kids don't set trends in music. They follow what the industry manufactures. The industry has them sampling hits from early 2000 so they give up the majority of the publishing on the backend. That's why folks are selling "beats" 10 for $100 online.
Lets not cap and act like younger producers are creating mind blowing productions Ha!! They drag and drop loops and call it production. Why do the older productions receive more syncs in film etc. Ask these younger cats would they love to work with vintage gear if they could afford it and theyll say yes. We live in a cut and paste market so its beyond age of producers and more the ease and fast creation process. Its deeper.
Im 47 and pride myself on making current music but I do know people my age who are still only doing the older sounding production and will not venture from it lol
Bro I feel you but I also not aiming my music at kids. I would love to find a Benny or Freddie or Conway around my way but I feel they don't exist in Fl but we doe have some conscience rappers out here
I just turned 48 and the old heads that refuse to move on from the golden era and boom bap is such a peeve. Don't get me wrong, I love the old school hip hop, but I have a huge appreciation for the modern sound. Anyone who complains about "real hip hop" or telling me that the modern sound "isn't hip hop" just gets an eye roll from me. btw, early 2000s stuff is 20 years ago :-\
@@SoloEmpireOfficial you can find anything that still being made. Folks are still making fire disco and funk tracks today. My point isn’t that boombap doesn’t exist but more the old heads that refuse to give anything else a chance. There’s quality everywhere if you look for it just like there’s an audience for anything if you can find it. Bitching that the new kids don’t like boom bap does nothing for anyone. Finding the people who appreciate it and locking in on that scene is where it’s at.
💯💯💯 Bro you just connected the dots for me with this one. I'm a 54 y/o producer and I stay in my lane but tried a couple times to venture out and really didn't like the finished product. It just didn't feel right. I may give it another shot and see what happens. Thanks!
I'm over 40 and I'm all for new sounds. I'm not one of those old guys that feel like the old music is always the best. I'll tell a person in a heartbeat that some of the older music sounds dated compared to some of the new music.
Gooood😇Word Bolo. Also,of us forget two important things 1) we have to stay up-to-date for today’s music at all times. Even if it’s not the music that you like or you’re doing. 2) we must remember music is a job and just like a regular 9 to 5 you have to know your job. Get yourself out the way and learn the job for each artist: like a headphone mix for each individual band member recording at the same time. I do Gospel music only: regular gospel, hip-hop, gospel country gospel any kind of gospel music because you never know who’s gonna call you.
I make beats, once in a while and I'm 70 years old and I really don't care if anybody likes the beats because I make music for myself and if I like it, that's good enough for me. I have never been a follower that's why I'm still alive, because you have to think for yourself and be your own person because if you follow somebody else you might wind up with their problems or dead. Look what happened to all the idiots who hanged out with P. Diddy combs, they're all pissing their pants and spending big bucks on lawyers.
I enjoyed this video, was in my feed, made me laugh a little when you would "break the news" to your viewers that the such-n-such song construct they like so much... well... it's old. This is not my living, hobbyist, I'm older than you ... I tend to create to my own tastes... so I don't have to deal with what you're mentioning... but it's refreshing to hear because, whether you intend to or not, you're basically telling folks to get out of their shell and open up to the world around. Anyway, great video, subbed, thanks!
Bolo Da Producer ? some of these youngsters never heard of a lot of oldies songs. like for example: you can play "roger and zapp more bounce to the ounce" and they would be like "WHO SING THAT ?"
I totally agree with you Bolo,I'm turning 42 in January and I must say what's gotten me this far is staying updated with the time and sound,I mostly work with cats in their early 20s sometimes even teens so I totally get where you coming from,in fact I be telling these kids to stay fresh....Dope Vide Once Again...I think you should do more basic advice videos like these.Bless Up🙏🏾💯
44 From Montana. Listen to everything. lot's of Genres. But yeah this last 10 years for hip hop I'm just confused. The triplet thing for me was a couple songs but man was I wrong, it's a been a genre and a half for a decade. The Reservations up here love hip hop and produce great artist but the sound is the "Older Sound." not trap. Grime and really hard negative Trap. That's another conversation I can't be a part of. Stay Positive. Jokes. I make beats for a hobbie which many gotta understand the money is not there by a long shot for most. Realize that and you get to have a lot more fun with it.
Great advice. I am 49 now, if I could have "afford" and get the gear we have now.- I don't know where I would be in 2024; however I roll with the changes and blend respect to the legends- I got 5 on that 🤪 Furthermore, did you solve the Cubase 14 Pro issues? I upgraded from 13 Pro and I have to say- this is the best update/upgrade in my opinion to Cubase in years.
Yea Bolo with all that being said I notice when ever you talk about this subject you never talk about the price we pay for these youngsters not like the old way of doing music, I know on paper it looks like this new stuff is selling but it's not, most people know what good music sounds like that's why tv commercials are playing the old stuff, let's face it Bolo the music these youngsters are making today are not classics the music is just not good, I think most people ARE JUST TOLERATING IT just so they don't look like the old dud, just to fit in.
This is "big kid in the sandbox" advice. The same way the youth don't chase us, we need to stop chasing them, its sad to see. Mind you, there's plenty of new acts using varied production styles. Conway is one example, one minute he rapping on old RZA type sounds, the next its Metro Boomin. Bolo is off with this one. Artists over 40 need to be reading for people over 40, period. Its disingenuous the other way around. "let me make stuff I don't like, so I can appeal to people I don't relate to"
you tripping for saying that i love todays artist like young thug, lil baby etc.. and im in my 40s so even tho i can always make 90s type beats i love making todays 2024 trap beats.. gotta expand your mind bro
This was a slept-on topic that needed to be addressed or talked about. I'm 52, and I've been producing for some time now, like the Cool Edit Pro days. LOL, I totally get it. You have to be a servant to the buyer. I'm excited to enter your beat submission the next time it's open. 😁 again another great video.
Another great topic…. I’ll admit, I’m kinda struggling with this… I’m about to turn 54 AND I didn’t start making beat until I was 45, I think…I usually run my beats by my kids… Sons are 35 & 31, and my daughter is 27…. A few years ago I let my daughter hear one of my beats and her response was “I like it, but it sounds OLD” 😳😂🤣🤔… Kibda crushed me a bit but one of my main objectives now is for my beats to NOT sound OLD…I also do this in my spare time so I just try to have fun and make what I like… Ima get a beat to you for review one day👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾 How bout dem Lions!?😂
"also do this in my spare time so I just try to have fun and make what I like." This is a big heads up young ones. The math says you will have a very very small chance of making money so keep that in mind. it won't get better in the next few. Having fun with it is everything after that is realized.
i feel that a LITTLE bit but (im 55) music is timeless....if it sound good it sound good!!!!!!!!! you go west and u STILL hear all that old skoo sound whistle bell clav lead ALL that and them cats eat it up bro...... so it may be a matter of location.... im doin me bro..... they like it? they like it..... they dont? they dont........... i aint missin NO sleep homie💪🏾
This is soo narrow minded and full of assumptions. - Beats alone ain't music - Music isn't just for "kids" - Not everyone "does music" for money - Most people will never make any money from music anyways - Chasing waves is a sign of weakness and lame especially the watered down, all sounds the same, cringe unoriginal trap crap mouse click beat "music" How about after 40 make better content? That should be your responsibility for the kids. Encourage them to learn and play instruments.
On a technical level, what would you say are the most defining elements of modern rap/hip hop production? Being born in 1980, it's easy to gravitate towards that DJ Premier, Pete Rock, 9th Wonder sound and it's easy to equate modern hip hop with trap music characteristics (no swing, 1/16th hi hat's, 808's, etc.), but beyond that what would you say are the defining characteristics?
I'll be 51 next week and I still to this day keep up with the way sounds of music is evolving. Can't be stuck in the past but still stick to the roots.
Happy pre-Birthday!
@tiffanyanthony thank you so much!! ❤️
I think each person has to do what is organic and natural. If u do new sound and ya know classic sounds you have the option of broad and amazing things.
Tell that to Alchemist.
We were not on a whole other wave. We respected the artist that came before us. The Run DMC's, the KRS One's, the Rakims, took what they did and elevated it. We learned from them. These kids nowadays have not learned from the era that came before them. They are making simple, low vibrational music. They are afraid to use their brains and come up with clever word play, and witty bars. Even the new producers Like Mustard and Metro are not crate diggers like the producers of our era. They don't sample, they can't chop soul, and their beats end up sounding cheap and weak. Our music was more authentic in part because it was connected to the music our parents listened to. Then to prove just how dope the producers from our era were, they would find sounds to sample on records nobody ever heard of. They sampled different types of music and made dope beats out of them. These young mf's completely turned the game upside down.
The problem is Older Producers are thinking they have to make music for Teenie Boopers to make money. Chasing waves instead of just creating what comes from your heart & soul is a Bigger Issue. My advise is Just Make Good Music & The Artist thats meant for your music will find you.
Exactly, I know my production style/ skill set and if I was to try to produce like the younger producers I would get laughed out the room because that is not me. Now I'm not just making boom bap but I'm talking about that ovoxo sound and that older trap sound. That is my pocket, I don't work with 100s of artists but I have a healthy rotation of artist that come to me for beats.
I completely agree. Focusing on trends can often lead to losing sight of what makes your music unique. Creating from the heart and staying true to your style will always resonate with the right audience. The artists who connect with your music will find it, and that’s the key to longevity in the industry.
Facts, this discussion is kinda off in my opinion...
@@WeCreateMusicTV 💯
@@trevorgerman 💯
I’m 46 .. some stuff just ain’t my bop.. I make music for spitters/ lyricists. Boom bap with up to date techniques and sounds. There is no “bring back” something that is a staple .. removing the boom bap is like taking the guitar out of rock n roll or the sax out of jazz.
Yeah true. Might as well switch to country if all you care about is making money.
Well said sir!!!!
Boom bap drums were never essential to hip hop. Hip hop got its start with disco rap, which doesn't have boom bap style drums, then there's the miami bass and memphis rap scenes. Both of which never relied on boom bap drums but were extremely important to old school hip hop
@Sergio-nb4hj I agree to a certain extent. But hiphop started with dj's spinnin breakbeats. So the drum is the basis but that doesn't mean it can't be other things. I love the drumless productions that are going on in the underground scene as well.
@@Sergio-nb4hj you’re speaking of the time when beat machines and samplers weren’t being used because Hip Hop was too new.. all of that changed once Run-DMC came out.. but b4 that, using break beats laid the foundation for later.. something tells me we have different outlooks on what “Boom Bap” actually is.
Who gives a fuck about "these kids" tho? If you make music make the music you want to make. It's YOUR form of expression. Express yourself. For you.
100% true, let alone the fact that many kids also recognize that the music of their generation ain't as good as the previous ones, especially the 80's and 90's...
If you're working with other people; engineering or producing- you'll need to be flexible.
@elketerbentzadik Bolo's context in this video is about producing in the context of the industry, i.e. label, indy, streams, social media, charts, radio, ect... This is not about what you feel or what you love to do in your spare time; it's about what the reality is, when you're an older producer, in this game / business.
If you can’t produce for any age bracket you’re not an producer. Have to adapt to any situation
@@HobbieOne So it's about producing stuff that you might also not like one bit ?
Not for me, I'll pass...
Dude! I'm 60 and I'm still producing Hip Hop songs since my earlier days in Miami! I love it! Nah, I'm up to date with my beats fam!😮
🔥
Shit it done came back around to 95 if you ask me! They taking all of our RNB groves and flipping! Just like we did back then with the 70 80’s!!
@@BoloDaProducer A forward-thinking mentality is good. Still, the funny thing is that many of the "new" beats sound like the older 80s stuff. The better beats of the late 80s and 90s were innovative and forward-sounding. Even the samples were from records that were ahead of their time or just extremely musically advanced. The simplistic beats that are deemed "new" today are actually a step back. So I look at it as returning to the old days more than trying to sound "current."
For example, Future's "Like That" was one of the biggest records of this past spring. Kids loved that track. It's cool but really nothing but an updated version of Rodney O and Joe Cooley's "Everlasting Bass" from '88 which itself drew a lot from Finesse and Synquis' "Bass Game" from '87.
The main thing I take from this is give them what they want period.
Fact is... the 2000 - 2010 music used the samples of the '80s & '90s, which used the originals from the '60s & '70s. Now some of the current producers use the 2000 - 2010 samples today. It's coming full circle, the artist and producers of today just don't know their history of music. It's borderline disrespectful.
@@veegee1974 Them lacking of knowing history of the music they love in the information age while they're stuck on their smartphone pushes it pass borderline.
I hear what you're saying (52 years old here), and i agree with 100%, but let me say one word "Griselda".They showed how an "older" sound can be made current.
Griselda is not an older sound. It just uses the same type of samples as golden era and underground hip hop..
@@LawrinMaxwellsmpc500 which is the "older" sound lol!
@@SoundSignals lol bruh just agreed
Was thinking the exact same thing.
Then you've got The Alchemist and Dj Muggs, proving that if you know Hip Hop you can continue to do sample based music without following new trends and sounds, collaborate with the younger generation, still be relevant and put out bangers!
This wave is the dumpster wave
Fax.. This music these days does not last.. bolo knows that
I don't make music for kids and I don't chase waves. I'm a producer not a beat maker.
Facts facts facts!!!
Thank you. I’m not about to be out here 44 making a bunch of same-sounding ass trap beats. Bolo in the blender.
E X A C T L Y
You need an original no AI fully written, performed and produced Indie, Pop, Hip Hop, Jazz, Synth, Funk or Rock song?
Sure no problem. Pick a key.
Beat makers ain't real producers.
Nothing wrong with making beats but don't tell me you made it when it was your computer that made it and don't confuse it for music.
@@Davenorcal707So Hans Zimmerman uses a computer and…..never mind.
Respect Bolo for this video.. over 40 but been at it forever. It's a passion so I can't stop. Quincy Jones had a monster hit at 50 so I stay optimistic At this point: i want a legacy, the money will come!
What's a legacy after you dead??
M.Tyson
@corythomas5228 so my kids can enjoy my fruits & a respected name. Easier life than mine fasho
Right my son's are now getting into it and I got it from my dad always had a studio in the house sing and play 7 instruments took it for granted want to be in the streets more so got to it late but always knew the craft
I only agree with this if you're trying to chase broad mainstream success. Most of my music sound like synthwave/old school video game music and I ain't trying to change that. The people who like it, really enjoy it. I'd rather create a niche product from my heart and soul instead of chasing waves. I don't ride waves. I cruise in my own lane.
This comment is the right mindset!
💯
This is the comment as someone who don’t ride waves your own path is where it’s at. Because you cater to what you enjoy and bring people closer not only that you create what’s unique. Like you said u follow trends for only the mainstream as it’s always evolving at the end u can combine the two if u chose too.
yup! chasing waves only kills careers, I've seen it for decades.
The ones who start the waves, survive and the rest die out.
That's why RZA, Swiss, Dre etc are still around but their imitators are done.
Bravo 🎉
The thing about that is, These kids arent moving any units the Music industry is failing right now and it will eventually go back to musicianship and real song writing because the money aint there right now in one they are doing.
I hope you are right!
Live music will gain value as well.
Unfortunately, AI generated music will then take over...
@@nabeshin7741and guess what…. Humans that can bring musicianship and quality production will still be around and possibly even sought after.
You can't make money if you don't read the market
You als0o can't sustain a career by just imitating what yo used in the market.
Derringer is just as current as Metro Boomin for example.
Some folks just hyper focus on what the radio runs into the ground
and fool themselves into thinking that's the only thing that works.
@ As I always tell artists, there's a million ways
@@kaysha and one way is to not read the market
@@reed5823 You always have to at least read your own market
If I'm always chasing a trend, I'm always behind them trying to catch up. Trends get set by the originators who are on their own lane waiting for people to come to them.
Correct… Overseas is on the 90’s vibe they love boom bap sound
I’m 54 and started learning to make beats four years ago just for fun. I also work on animation and believe that all music connects to its roots, just with updated elements. You’re absolutely right-you can’t force old styles on new generations; they won’t connect with it. Instead, it’s essential to understand what’s new, learn why people love it, and apply those ideas. Each generation creates what moves them to their groove. As someone from the 70s generation, I’ve seen massive changes in how music is made and produced. Keep up with the great videos and music!
would you mind mentioning some resources you have used for learning. i'm very new to beat making. still trying to figure out all the functions of my DAW. i feel like it's harder to retain all the information now cause i'm a bit older.
This video spoke to me... Im 47 and still evolving.
🔥🔥🔥
Yes sir. I'm 55 and I just love music and I had no idea that producing was so challenging. I appreciate this Bolo. Thank you!!!
That's like offering younger kids a classic car and getting mad they don't appreciate it.
I feel ya!
To them it’s more like offering a horse to ride vs a tesla
@@jasontaylor404 I once saw a kid get mad because she got a used 5 series BMW because she wanted a Tesla. True story!
@@garret765 With this logic a Dilla beat is horse and a Metro Boomin is a tesla? GTFOH so stupid.
@@Blacksonaudio I would have went with the used BMW. It wasn't that ugly Tesla cyber truck that's popular now, was it?
"Uncettes?"
Brooooo u mean AUNTIES!? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Its some uncettes out there 😂😂😂
I'm 62, and enjoyed some success during the late 90's/early 2000's.
Semi-retired and enjoying the amazing tools available today. Got all my clones, got all the monos/polys I need...a few digital.
But my newest purchase, the MPC Key37, is my dream machine. Got it three days ago and am like a duck to water with this thing.
A fantastic time to be an electronic musician!
Soo awesome to hear, thanks for sharing. I'm going to listen/watch your videos.
Do whatever TF you want to do! There’s literally a market for EVERYONE.
Facts
I'm 32 and I enjoy the old school way. It's true though, there's not that many of us.
you are borderline uncomfortable my bro! rawk it
Bolo, I appreciate this conversation, young brother. Admittedly, I’m one of those producers who still loves the old school sound and find genuine happiness in reproducing music that sounds that way. One of the things the “Auditorium, Vol. 1” did for me was reassure me that an audience for that classic sound is still out there. What are your thoughts on marketing the niche sound to that specific audience, without alienating the younger crowd? Thanks for all you do for the community, brother.
What do you want to achieve first music is the same all the way we all enjoy good composition good melody that what it is
Expand your reach!! Those pop and European artists eat that shit up all day. Urban artist are one dimensional. Most of the urban music sound exactly the same song after song same sounds same patterns FIND AND DEFINE your audience. Stop trying to be the creepy old guy in the club. Go find that underground hip hop scene that want what you got, all those 90s R&B artist are still outside find them and breath life into their music. Chasing money will have you out here colorful as hell wearing speedos.
🤣🤣🤣Not colorful and Speedos!
I’m 49. I make the shit I want to hear.
Retro beats are coming back big time, lot of old Soul vibes coming to the new music. Then there is all the Afrobeats stuff like amapiano exploding. In Korean pop they are using old beats like New Jack Swing but speeding it up a bit and with more modern samples.
I hear what your saying though it’s having that OG knowledge and still bridging the gap.
I totally agree if you're trying to work with younger artists yes By all means stay up to date...... but I've also heard a lot of younger people who are now discovering nineties and early 2000s Hip Hop and they are fascinated with the music because it sounds so different than what they know and the song structure is much better...... they always say that the Beats were much more simpler but effective
True!
@BoloDaProducer I keep watching DJ reaction channels it is like they discovered gold give me a... and they all say the same thing...... it's something so real about it...... the music that they listen to now they're going to outgrow as adults give me a. But that old school s*** a lot of about real life and that's what they want to hear alarm say they can't even go back to listening to the current unless they're in a club
Trap beats are much simpler than anything someone like Kanye west was making early 2000s.
I strongly disagree here is why kendrick Lamar was able to beat drake in the beef by rapping like a old schooler so that’s mean there is a huge audience that is starving for that type of hip hop
2 Atlantic records drop like 50 artists
3 Gucci mane drop like his whole label
4 Kendrick Lamar is performing at the Super Bowl where is your modern artist at
The point what I’m getting at you cannot as a artists put out all that crazy music and expect to become that major artist no matter what era we are in
These artists these days are only going to make it so far you must produce music that everybody can feel and guess what ice cube just drop a song that went viral and he’s a grandpa there a multimillion dollar audience that still want that soul hip hop it is what it is
Kendrick could drop an album that sounds like the last poets and mfs would love it tho. I understand what bolo is saying too. You just gotta fit in where you fit in. Im 24 and do primarily sample based stuff, I gotta say the past 10 year with Al's evolution and all the gxfr movement has influenced me a lot, there's a big difference between the 90s sp1200 style shit and the drumless, slower, more deliberately lofi stuff that's hot now. Its just not "clubby." And not everything should be. But again, get in where you fit in.
Kendrick could drop an album that sounds like the last poets and mfs would love it tho. I understand what bolo is saying too. You just gotta fit in where you fit in. Im 24 and do primarily sample based stuff, I gotta say the past 10 year with Al's evolution and all the gxfr movement has influenced me a lot, there's a big difference between the 90s sp1200 style shit and the drumless, slower, more deliberately lofi stuff that's hot now. Its just not "clubby." And not everything should be. But again, get in where you fit in.
boooo. making a dance song while calling someone a pedo was prime gen z shit....
I understand Kendrick but Dot is like us that's his bread and butter, he's not like in his 20s anymore. An artist in their 20s is not hopping on slow sample beats that's drumless maybe if they're a singer
Im 40 years old and this is great advice, thank you. This can also apply to not just music but other topics in life in general when being around or interacting with people much younger than oneself.
its horrible advice. In life in general, we do not think its normal for middle aged people
to be going to the clubs to hang out with the young's and act like we're on their level.
Its embarrassing.
Bolo this is very good advise bro I just turned 41.. and honestly I’m doing both making beats for young artists and older artist… but definitely they ain’t trying to hear those old school beats.. and the best way for them is to sample old school but make sure your drums are modern and the patterns are on point
Lol. Just make them those trash beats they want. Ahahha. Jkjkjkjkjk.
🤣🤣🤣🤣
LOL!
Your masterpiece is someone elses trash,the customer is the customer.
Everything trash when you too old e
With all due respect Bolo, that's a subjective opinion, my dude. 56 here and I literally just ended a session with one of my up and coming artists who is in his twenties and he digs that old school sh!t.
Exactly, and older producers who follow these kinds of guidelines are the same ones who will then complain about how similar all the beats are when they themselves are part of the problem...
throwback 90s i what i like and all i will ever do. if the youngsters don't like it idc. But i'm not tryin to make a career out of it. If you're trying to make a career out of it i agree with this guy
I'm 48 and I enjoy cooking up beats and releasing them independently.. you would be surprised at the BMI statements to see where your spins are coming from especially in clubs.. performance royalties etc
True!
I need to learn how to do that. I’m just a hobbyist, but I have some heat. I just need to learn how to monetize and I don’t really want to have people coming to my studio because people be thirsty.
Im trying to get my stuff in the clubs for djs, how would i go about this?
Me to how do I do that?
Really good advice. I started my first studio in 1980 and all that classic hardware I financed back then is still going strong as VST's. I'm 67 now and my number one thing whether it's DJ or recording is don't get stuck in the past. I regularly listen to top 20 lists from around the world. All my guys my age are stuck like you said.
Sound advice. There is definitely a lane for boombap, just as there is a lane for jazz or salsa. Notice Bolo kept saying the young kids now, and if you want young kids business and to be on mainstream top 20 and compete for those spots, you have to sound current. Maybe it’s my feed, but I am hearing a lot of young kids do a lot of boombap beats though, definitely not in the top billboard 20 but the genre is still strong.
One thing u also shouldn’t do is dumb down your abilities and production style to cater to younger artists, or try to “fit in” with the new crowd or younger artists. The best thing you can do IF UR OLDER is take what you know and your methods and style, and see how you can INTEGRATE that into a newer vibe that even younger dudes would rock with. Just don’t drop your formula and try to dumb yourself down.
I’m 42 I agree, incorporating the old with the new is where is it at
I'm 48 & on my own to time....I still get paid working on Boom Bap Beats & my music is incredible. I started DJing when I was in high school....then I became a instrumentalist. Now I'm creating musical magic....check this how I do it is....I allow my clients generation to determine what best I'm give them. The young people using want me to produce a "Trap" or "Drill" beat. My old heads usually want Boom Bap & Soulful hip hop beats ...I had a client that was 19 an inspiring rapper wanted 90's style beats....so I gave him that kind of beat. Don't limited yourself just stuck in the past or too futuristic...Master all types of styles of beats.....this way not only you will be always relevant. But you get old money...current money.....& Tomorrow's money....
😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
Well yes... but no... I would agree with you 100%... Until you notice the youth of today are largely less talented and less creative than when I was "coming up". That's why much of today's music is based on "beats" featuring samples of older music. It was unusual to see more than three names in the songwriter credits back in the 70's (and unusually it was two or one). Now it's not unusual to see 6, 7, even 8 "songwriters" in the credits for a song (even more)!!!
So I think you're spot-on telling us "punks" not to impose our aesthetics on the youngsters, yes, but the reason some of us might have a hard time understanding why they might not be interested in our new tracks is because most of "their" music is based on "our" music. (Actually, it's more than _based on_ our music; it usually _is_ our music!)
I've been producing for a very long time, since the mid 90's. I will never tailor my sounds for these kids, I don't care about money, its about the craft and the love of music production. Boom Bap is in my blood, and I will continue to do it. If these kids don't dig it...oh well I 'll move on to the next. There are plenty of really dope artists out there that don't ride the trap rap wave. Its all about tapping into the right demographics. There are still alot of "older" heads that are incredible lyricists. Look at Roc Marci who is still dropping bangers with Uncle Al, as others mentions the Griselda movement, Willie the Kid, CrimeApple, Hus Kingpin, Skyzoo, Blu, Joey Bad, Mach... etc, etc....there are TONS out there.
nah. there are no "absolute rules" in hip hop.. the art form had us rapping over every genre with no restrictions.. so you can't gatekeep who can rap over what.. if im sampling/scratching the beatles and rolling stones into my tracks in 1984 then breaking those same conventions in 2024 is a no brainer..
i get people get on line and rage bait for content and engagement, but like humpty hump said: "doowutchalike"
Simply put... Older cats; don't chase waves and stay true to your own art.. Stay in your lane.. People that dig it are gonna dig it regardless. I wouldn't worry too much about what the young cats think of our productions.. If it makes you happy and feeds your soul; do it.. A lot of the young cats don't even value their own productions after a few months; because they so generic.. I'm just saying, your roots mean a lot in the depth of how your music sounds and feels.. Some young cats get it; but most don't.. Do you and do your music is the point! These 100% sample and stem based songs are going to wash out eventually and cats are going to gravitate back towards "core" production. These "new" production techniques are going to saturate the listeners ears eventually and "real" authenticity will come back in music...
I don't make music for kids I make music for people that like my music! This is straight up bad advice that I highly disagree with! Even the Bible warns of thinking in this way!
How Sway???
Yea this definitely hit you personally oldhead. This video is for PROFESSIONAL or ASPIRING PROFESSIONALS not hobbyist. If you make music for yourself and don’t want to make money from it then there is no problem with your thought process.
Huh?
I’m so glad you gave this message. As a 54 year old producer I run my tracks by my boys, 10-16. If they don’t rock with it, that ain’t it. I still have my music for me and a fan base. Have to be real with yourself. New Jack Swing might have a resurgence. 😂😂😂
If you wanna make money, you gotta change with the times.
You are absolutely correct on this. I know I’m old and all of the dudes that use my beats today are around my age. I’m 54 and my biggest credit was a Kool G Rap remix that I did with Dj Mister Cee(RIP), on the Rated XXX album called “Enter The Dragon” & “Lifestyles of the rich and famous”.
I produce now for myself and my old friends. I don’t ever expect to make any real impact money or noise with what I produce. I do it for fun and for the memories. You are 100% right brother.
That maybe the reason why the wide appeal of hip hop is declining, because of the current sound that’s been placed in the forefront…and it’s been out for a while now, so shouldn’t it be considered “old” by now….i have my own style…comprised of influential genres like neo soul, hip hop, psychedelic, funk, and pop…..I’ll just say, be creative..be you… there’s an artist for everything
I’m not following or making music for them. I’m making music for me. There’s so much music they’ve never even heard. After a 20 y.o. “discovers” something we’ve been told to leave alone, we’re going to feel like we “missed” another wave.
My clientele is just not gonna be people who don't feel that soulful boom bap sound. That's what I do. And I can add the new sample pack vibe into it, but overall, it's gonna have that boom bap in it, even if its just the bass and the drums.
What you said at 3:44 is really important and I think deserves its own video. If you just blindly play tracks from the last ten years it’s real hard to tell what year they are from. It’s not hard to stick to this lane but it is like of boring. Age shouldnt matter as long as you are flexible
I think some artist’s (not all) should stay true to themselves and their sound. Not that they can’t evolve, but if they the type of artist that like that sound that’s mostly associated with 80’s, 70’s then they should not do anything different because it messes up the brand. Good example is Ghostface or MFDoom, Swingout Sister
I’m a hip hop producer of a certain age and this is the funniest and most truthful advice I’ve heard in a long time!
I’m over 40 but Im all about finding the next wave 🌊 I don’t wanna hear that old ish either 😂
Boom bap ain't dead yet, lol. Get Marco Polo to put some pentatonic flute in that beat.
Music has not changed for a couple of decades. Everyone sounds the same.
U make a good point, it’s a fine line between giving good guidance and promoting a lack of quality. There may be some basic things that will tend to always work well.
I think artist who are super picky about beats should push themselves to be more creative and be ready to create to any kind of beat. Now days there’s room for just about anything production wise.
Make what you love and find somebody else who loves it too. If not just keep it and jam it for your own enjoyment. Matter of fact all my music is for my own enjoyment. If somebody hears it and likes it, cool. If they don’t, then as Bolo used to say: I really don’t care.
True!!
Good video bolo i'm 54 and STILL at it! I also embraced this new wave of production. Not in it's entirety but some of these new ways of putting a great song together is cool. This one resonated with me as an elder statesman in the game.
I totally get where you are coming from and why you say this, but boom bap has really made a comeback. I think of Coast Contra, Griselda, Joey Bada$$, Marlon Craft, Logic, etc. You even hear it in more mainstream hits like "Players" from Coi Leray. I also see a lot of the old artists like Nas and Method Man finding their way to the next generation. They use new school beats, but also still rock the 90s sound. The kids are really into it too. I'm all for reinventing yourself, but I won't dismiss boom bap as something for old people and a handful youngsters :)
The looped soul sample with lite percussion aka drumless is a big reason for this new wave. There is definitely some updated Boom Bap being made but I think it's the mix of the two styles that is fueling the renaissance.
I agree I keep my production like water, always adapting and never forcing a sound on the younger generation.
Producer BandPlay (Young Dolph’s producer) is the person to credit for Big X The Plug’s bangers
Him and Cash Cobain sample some good music from the past
Don’t count out the old school Summer Walkers biggest song right now “Heart of a Woman” is very simple old school
Thank you so much for the information it helps me as a Songwriter and Producer keeping current when helping people keep open to learning new a fresh ideas and ways of doing things keeps you growing and moving forward ❣️
Ill be 50th next month i did a few collaborations this year with younger artists worked out well they weren't major artists still i learned a lot from the experience i plan on doing more collaborations in 2025 young or old artists. 🙏🏾
I'm glad somebody finally said this, because Iv'e been feeling like this since 2014. It's very important as a producer to stay up to date with the current sound even if you don't like it. Try to add your spin on it with a artist of today and make history.
Im glad I only make beats as a hobby. Zounds like real pressure to do as a living.
Love it! Well said. I tip my hat to you Bolo! I've seen it, how Old School producers thumb their nose up at today's so-called "producers" claiming they are just throwing loops together and have no idea what they are actually doing. (..I used to be one of those guys) But what I see and have come to understand is you need to embrace this and appreciate how music making has evolved. It's all a creative process and you need to adapt to the times to BE and STAY current. Learn something. Doesn't mean your old school tactics are irrelevant, hell I find myself teaching young producers all kinds of cool stuff they don't know about/ and I've learned all kinds of new ways younger people create. It's awesome. Embrace it! What it all comes down to in the end is.... the song anyways.
I'm 58 and successful making music professionally for 38 years!
So you telling me they don’t wanna hear my Public Enemy Welcome to the Terrordome type beat😢😂
I would those beats are coming back those type of emcees are coming back .
Children may not but it did make it into a movie which is another way that people can make money on music that sounds 'dated' as he put it. Every time a movie or TV show, or even video game, has to come up with background music for something that is supposed to be happening from 1980's-2010's then they are going to look for music that sounds like that era to try to bring people into the feeling of that time and that is an opportunity for people who make music that is still reminiscent of those eras. Especially if they just want that sound w/o paying to license an actual hit from then.
i had to look this dude up.. he did watch me whip/nae nae🤦🏽♂️ nothing major after that.. so that was him doing a "young person style" even back then🤨 i think HE was still chasing that young sound unsuccessfully and is now projecting on everyone else🤣🤣🤣🤣
I'm 23 and I love that shit. But I also love modern UK style drill. I wanna experiment with all different styles
@@wallacewallets7557 oh ok...now some of his takes make sense...that beat was trash...turning off this channel recommendation
Bolo, you bring up excellent points. As a musician, i have learned that i still like to make music in the more traditional ways of my era, but that does not often translate into the ears of listeners today. I think one approach possibly for producers is too listen to some of the hottest / likable artist of today and see how their production can inspire you to make more modern sounding takes. As a musician, you can always make things for yourself that you resonate with and make some things for other listeners. Overall , great points again in your analysis. Very informative post.
Big X Tha Plug is from Dallas where I'm from. His entire sound is older samples. Every sing on his new album is sample, primarily soul samples. He doesn't sound like anyone in his age range and that's why he stands out and he's the hottest thing in Texas. I hate these type of discussions honestly. Art is supposed to be a personal expression. There are no rules. And following the lead of people half my age is just not a mature way of thinking. I agree forcing ideas on anybody of ANY AGE is a bad idea. Elders shoukd always teach the youth, not vice versa. This is why music is so bad nowadays. Young people have a lack of respect for older music because people my age don't teach them shit. I have a 17 year old son that's a songwriter and is learning to play the piano for real. He absolutely HATES modern rap. Myself amd his mom always exposed hin to real music amd that shaped his ear. I bring younger people into my world as an OG and they realize where all of the shit they like comes from. When i do a deep dive on Three 6 Mafia they always are amazed amd realize that they are the modern day blueprint. We gotta step up as elders in the hop hop community. Nobody needs to be stuck in the 80's or 90's but always remember to respect the architects. I'm always with being the next wave insteadbof riding the current one anyway.
Facts, it's weird for an og to be making drill and turn up beats. I feel like you should have evolved into r&b and other production styles at 40+ years old. Start making grown folks music and not baby beats nursery rhyme melodies. 😂😂
Big'X is big not only in Texas but big period .. His last album went to number 8 on the Billboard 200. He's doing great with his soulfull sound.
Totally agree. Unfortunately, the kids don't set trends in music. They follow what the industry manufactures. The industry has them sampling hits from early 2000 so they give up the majority of the publishing on the backend. That's why folks are selling "beats" 10 for $100 online.
Lets not cap and act like younger producers are creating mind blowing productions Ha!! They drag and drop loops and call it production. Why do the older productions receive more syncs in film etc. Ask these younger cats would they love to work with vintage gear if they could afford it and theyll say yes. We live in a cut and paste market so its beyond age of producers and more the ease and fast creation process. Its deeper.
"This is what they need right now!" Boy you ain't neva lied! I hear that all the time!
Im 47 and pride myself on making current music but I do know people my age who are still only doing the older sounding production and will not venture from it lol
Bro I feel you but I also not aiming my music at kids. I would love to find a Benny or Freddie or Conway around my way but I feel they don't exist in Fl but we doe have some conscience rappers out here
I just turned 48 and the old heads that refuse to move on from the golden era and boom bap is such a peeve. Don't get me wrong, I love the old school hip hop, but I have a huge appreciation for the modern sound. Anyone who complains about "real hip hop" or telling me that the modern sound "isn't hip hop" just gets an eye roll from me.
btw, early 2000s stuff is 20 years ago :-\
Exactly, man, I'm like, so it's all bad? Cmon, man, my peeps think it's all pose to be benny butcher type songs or it's trash which is false
Tons of people rapping on Boom Bap tracks right now. Benny the butcher, Nino Man, and everyone on the East coast
@@SoloEmpireOfficial you can find anything that still being made. Folks are still making fire disco and funk tracks today.
My point isn’t that boombap doesn’t exist but more the old heads that refuse to give anything else a chance. There’s quality everywhere if you look for it just like there’s an audience for anything if you can find it.
Bitching that the new kids don’t like boom bap does nothing for anyone. Finding the people who appreciate it and locking in on that scene is where it’s at.
💯💯💯
Bro you just connected the dots for me with this one. I'm a 54 y/o producer and I stay in my lane but tried a couple times to venture out and really didn't like the finished product. It just didn't feel right. I may give it another shot and see what happens. Thanks!
I'm over 40 and I'm all for new sounds. I'm not one of those old guys that feel like the old music is always the best. I'll tell a person in a heartbeat that some of the older music sounds dated compared to some of the new music.
👍🏾
Gooood😇Word Bolo.
Also,of us forget two important things
1) we have to stay up-to-date for today’s music at all times. Even if it’s not the music that you like or you’re doing.
2) we must remember music is a job and just like a regular 9 to 5 you have to know your job. Get
yourself out the way and learn the job for each artist: like a headphone mix for each individual band member recording at the same time.
I do Gospel music only: regular gospel, hip-hop, gospel country gospel any kind of gospel music because you never know who’s gonna call you.
Very true!!
I make beats, once in a while and I'm 70 years old and I really don't care if anybody likes the beats because I make music for myself and if I like it, that's good enough for me. I have never been a follower that's why I'm still alive, because you have to think for yourself and be your own person because if you follow somebody else you might wind up with their problems or dead. Look what happened to all the idiots who hanged out with P. Diddy combs, they're all pissing their pants and spending big bucks on lawyers.
I enjoyed this video, was in my feed, made me laugh a little when you would "break the news" to your viewers that the such-n-such song construct they like so much... well... it's old. This is not my living, hobbyist, I'm older than you ... I tend to create to my own tastes... so I don't have to deal with what you're mentioning... but it's refreshing to hear because, whether you intend to or not, you're basically telling folks to get out of their shell and open up to the world around. Anyway, great video, subbed, thanks!
Bolo Da Producer ? some of these youngsters never heard of a lot of oldies songs. like for example: you can play "roger and zapp more bounce to the ounce" and they would be like "WHO SING THAT ?"
I totally agree with you Bolo,I'm turning 42 in January and I must say what's gotten me this far is staying updated with the time and sound,I mostly work with cats in their early 20s sometimes even teens so I totally get where you coming from,in fact I be telling these kids to stay fresh....Dope Vide Once Again...I think you should do more basic advice videos like these.Bless Up🙏🏾💯
Got to evolve with the times, Its jus like technology. Even at a old age have to stay up to date.
True!
Thank you for covering this topic…I appreciate you and your channel
44 From Montana. Listen to everything. lot's of Genres. But yeah this last 10 years for hip hop I'm just confused. The triplet thing for me was a couple songs but man was I wrong, it's a been a genre and a half for a decade. The Reservations up here love hip hop and produce great artist but the sound is the "Older Sound." not trap. Grime and really hard negative Trap. That's another conversation I can't be a part of. Stay Positive. Jokes. I make beats for a hobbie which many gotta understand the money is not there by a long shot for most. Realize that and you get to have a lot more fun with it.
🔥
Awesome information. I'm 63 years old. I will keep this in mind when creating.
Unc-ett??? Bruh. What's wrong with auntie? C'mon man😂
literally what i was going to comment lol
this lets you know how out of touch he is.. i gotta start vetting the people who make posts like this🤦🏽♂️
Great advice. I am 49 now, if I could have "afford" and get the gear we have now.- I don't know where I would be in 2024; however I roll with the changes and blend respect to the legends- I got 5 on that 🤪 Furthermore, did you solve the Cubase 14 Pro issues? I upgraded from 13 Pro and I have to say- this is the best update/upgrade in my opinion to Cubase in years.
Yea Bolo with all that being said I notice when ever you talk about this subject you never talk about the price we pay for these youngsters not like the old way of doing music, I know on paper it looks like this new stuff is selling but it's not, most people know what good music sounds like that's why tv commercials are playing the old stuff, let's face it Bolo the music these youngsters are making today are not classics the music is just not good, I think most people ARE JUST TOLERATING IT just so they don't look like the old dud, just to fit in.
I think you’re in the right direction, I wanna you get a forum with other producers to talk on this.
Hey bolo what I'm going to do with all these New Jack swing beats.😅
🤣🤣
Okay I'll let the new Jack beats go but I'm keeping my kwame polka Dot socks
😂😂😂
I don't even produce hip hop beats, but I love this advice. Just discovered your channel. Great stuff man.
This is "big kid in the sandbox" advice.
The same way the youth don't chase us, we need to stop chasing them, its sad to see.
Mind you, there's plenty of new acts using varied production styles.
Conway is one example, one minute he rapping on old RZA type sounds, the next its Metro Boomin.
Bolo is off with this one.
Artists over 40 need to be reading for people over 40, period.
Its disingenuous the other way around.
"let me make stuff I don't like, so I can appeal to people I don't relate to"
you tripping for saying that i love todays artist like young thug, lil baby etc.. and im in my 40s so even tho i can always make 90s type beats i love making todays 2024 trap beats.. gotta expand your mind bro
This was a slept-on topic that needed to be addressed or talked about. I'm 52, and I've been producing for some time now, like the Cool Edit Pro days. LOL, I totally get it. You have to be a servant to the buyer. I'm excited to enter your beat submission the next time it's open. 😁 again another great video.
Another great topic…. I’ll admit, I’m kinda struggling with this… I’m about to turn 54 AND I didn’t start making beat until I was 45, I think…I usually run my beats by my kids… Sons are 35 & 31, and my daughter is 27…. A few years ago I let my daughter hear one of my beats and her response was “I like it, but it sounds OLD” 😳😂🤣🤔… Kibda crushed me a bit but one of my main objectives now is for my beats to NOT sound OLD…I also do this in my spare time so I just try to have fun and make what I like… Ima get a beat to you for review one day👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾 How bout dem Lions!?😂
"also do this in my spare time so I just try to have fun and make what I like." This is a big heads up young ones. The math says you will have a very very small chance of making money so keep that in mind. it won't get better in the next few. Having fun with it is everything after that is realized.
i feel that a LITTLE bit but (im 55) music is timeless....if it sound good it sound good!!!!!!!!! you go west and u STILL hear all that old skoo sound whistle bell clav lead ALL that and them cats eat it up bro...... so it may be a matter of location.... im doin me bro..... they like it? they like it..... they dont? they dont........... i aint missin NO sleep homie💪🏾
This is soo narrow minded and full of assumptions.
- Beats alone ain't music
- Music isn't just for "kids"
- Not everyone "does music" for money
- Most people will never make any money from music anyways
- Chasing waves is a sign of weakness and lame especially the watered down, all sounds the same, cringe unoriginal trap crap mouse click beat "music"
How about after 40 make better content? That should be your responsibility for the kids.
Encourage them to learn and play instruments.
I hear you! Already knowing. I wouldn't waste my "unk" beats on someone who doesn't know or appreciate them.
Unkette’s 😂😂😂😂😂😂
I learned something new. I guess "aunts" just aint cool no mo'...
one thing I've noticed in the rock world is that 2000's rap rock nu metal is really hitting. Lots of trap mixed with metal also. its insane!
Unless you are in it for the bag, there are very few positives working with younger artists. Very few.
I definitely feel ya on that
Salute agreed
Nah we gotta work with new n old more. Come up with something new teach each other
On a technical level, what would you say are the most defining elements of modern rap/hip hop production? Being born in 1980, it's easy to gravitate towards that DJ Premier, Pete Rock, 9th Wonder sound and it's easy to equate modern hip hop with trap music characteristics (no swing, 1/16th hi hat's, 808's, etc.), but beyond that what would you say are the defining characteristics?
Good Question, let me think about that.