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Sampling Like a Pro: How to Flip Samples and Avoid Legal Issues

October 6, 2024

Sampling has been a cornerstone of modern music production, allowing producers to reimagine and breathe new life into old tracks. Whether you're producing hip-hop, EDM, or any genre, knowing how to...

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What Makes an EQ or Compressor VST High-Quality: Insights and Examples from Pros

October 6, 2024

When selecting EQ and compressor plugins, musicians and producers look for more than just a shiny interface or brand recognition. It's all about how these tools perform in real-world scenarios...

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Sound Design 101: Crafting Killer Drum Sounds Using Synthesizers

October 6, 2024

Drum sounds form the backbone of many music genres, and while sample packs are popular, designing your own drum sounds from scratch can elevate your production to a whole new level. Crafting custom...

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Mastering Multiband Compression Sidechaining: A Solution to Clashing Frequencies

October 6, 2024

In modern music production, one of the most common challenges is the clash of frequencies between instruments. For example, bass guitars and drum kits often compete for space in the lower end of...

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Studio One Workflow Tips for Faster Music Production

October 1, 2024

Studio One by PreSonus is an incredibly powerful DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) that offers a variety of tools to streamline your music production workflow. However, like many DAWs, getting the...

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Solving the Issue of Buried Crash Cymbals in the Mix

October 1, 2024

Crash cymbals often get buried in the mix, especially when using complex miking techniques like Glyn Johns, which balances close mics with overheads. While re-recording with higher cymbals may be a...

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GarageBand Hacks: Creating Professional-Sounding Tracks Without Expensive Plugins

October 1, 2024

GarageBand is often seen as an entry-level DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), but it has powerful tools that, when used effectively, can create professional-quality tracks. Many indie musicians and...

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Solving the General MIDI Program Change Dilemma in Ableton

October 1, 2024

When working with MIDI in Ableton, one might notice that although MIDI clips can send program changes, most of Ableton's native plugins don’t seem to respond to these changes effectively. This can...

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Escaping 'Tutorial Hell': Stay Motivated and Actually Progress in Music Production

September 21, 2024

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Should You Write Music or Lyrics First? Solutions from Famous Creators

September 20, 2024

One of the most common challenges for songwriters is deciding whether to write the music or lyrics first. This can feel like a "chicken-or-egg" situation, but there's no one-size-fits-all answer...

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How to Plan the Perfect Release Day for Your Single or Album

September 20, 2024

Releasing a new single or album is a huge milestone for any musician. However, without proper planning, your work may not get the attention it deserves. It’s not just about putting the song online...

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Mastering the Low End: Compression Tips for a Tight Mix

September 20, 2024

When it comes to music production, getting the low end right can be tricky. Many producers face a common issue: after the initial mix sounds perfect, a few days later, the low end starts to feel...

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How Tyla's "Water" is Making a Splash in the U.S. African Music Craze

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Photo Source: BBC

In recent times, the United States has seen a burgeoning interest in African music, a trend that has brought a refreshing diversity to the music scene. Leading this wave is the South African sensation Tyla, whose hit song "Water" has captured the hearts of audiences across the nation.

Tyla: A Rising Star

Tyla, hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa, has rapidly risen to international fame. Her unique sound, which blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary beats, has made her a standout artist in the global music industry. Her journey from a local talent to an international star is a testament to her exceptional talent and the universal appeal of her music.

"Water": A Cultural Phenomenon

"Water" isn't just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon. This track distinguishes itself with its catchy melody, vibrant beats, and Tyla's mesmerizing vocals. It's a song that transcends language barriers, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its rhythmic flow. The music video, rich in color and African cultural elements, adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the song's appeal.

The song debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 in October, marking Tyla's first appearance on the chart. It shot to the top of the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, spending 14 weeks at No. 1, and reached No. 7 on the Hot 100. Lewis credits the song's success to its blend of Afrobeats/Amapiano drum patterns with traditional R&B elements, appealing to a diverse audience globally.

"Water" also dominated the airwaves, maintaining the No. 1 spot on Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay for eight weeks. The strategy of leveraging Shazam, digital, and streaming success laid the groundwork for radio triumph. Remixes by Travis Scott and Marshmello played a significant role, adding layers and reaching broader audiences.

African Music in the U.S.: A Growing Trend

The success of "Water" in the U.S. is part of a larger trend of African music gaining popularity. Artists from across the African continent are finding enthusiastic audiences in the States, showcasing a wide range of styles and genres. From Afrobeats to Amapiano, the diverse sounds of Africa are resonating with American listeners, creating a vibrant and dynamic music scene.

Adding to this African music wave is the collaboration between Nigerian artist Rema and American singer Selena Gomez in "Calm Down." This track is a vivid example of how African artists are increasingly collaborating with mainstream American artists, creating a unique blend that appeals to a wide audience. "Calm Down" has resonated with listeners globally, showcasing the universal appeal of African rhythms mixed with familiar pop elements.

How Tyla's "Water" is Making a Splash in the U.S. African Music Crazehow-tylas-water-is-making-a-splash-in-the-u-s-african-music-crazeSean LimJan 29, 2024‍The U.S. music scene has been captivated by the African music craze, and at the forefront is Tyla, a young South African singer whose song "Water" has taken the world by storm...