November 24, 2024
Lil Nas X is back with another hit, and his latest single, “Need Dat Boy,” is already turning heads. Known for his ability to blend catchy beats with bold, unapologetic lyrics, the Grammy-winning...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
The rap industry has seen countless talents rise and fall, but few have left as lasting a mark as Meek Mill. Born Robert Rihmeek Williams on May 6, 1987, in South Philadelphia, Meek's journey to...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
Playboi Carti has long been celebrated for his ability to push the boundaries of hip-hop. Known for his high-pitched delivery and unique ad-libs, Carti has become a cultural phenomenon, with his...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
In a music industry dominated by rapid releases and fleeting trends, Frank Ocean has established himself as an artist who values depth, emotion, and timelessness. Known for his introspective...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
In a world of fast-paced trends and fleeting fame, H.E.R. stands as a powerful example of staying true to one’s musical roots while still capturing the hearts of modern audiences. Born Gabriella...
Read moreNovember 22, 2024
Cynthia Erivo captured the hearts of Broadway audiences with her extraordinary portrayal of Celie in the 2015 revival of *The Color Purple*. Her groundbreaking performance earned her the 2016 Tony...
Read moreNovember 22, 2024
As an artist who can mix music and dance into one continuous artistic experience, no one is brighter than Chris Brown. Chris Brown has been in the game for close to 20 years and he has established...
Read moreNovember 22, 2024
Kim Deal, a name synonymous with alternative rock royalty, has finally graced fans with her first-ever solo album, Nobody Loves You More. After decades of contributing to groundbreaking bands like...
Read moreNovember 22, 2024
In the vast sea of emerging pop artists, few have captured hearts as tenderly and authentically as Gracie Abrams. Known for her confessional lyrics, understated sound, and deeply personal...
Read moreNovember 22, 2024
In a music landscape that often sees trends come and go, Dua Lipa has emerged as a true innovator, reshaping the pop genre with her unique blend of retro and modern influences. From her self-titled...
Read moreNovember 22, 2024
Lola Young is carving out her place in the global music scene, and her recent collaboration with Tyler, the Creator is solidifying her status as one of the most exciting voices of her generation...
Read moreNovember 22, 2024
GloRilla's "TGIF" has emerged as a standout track in 2024, capturing the essence of weekend liberation and solidifying her presence in the hip-hop scene. Released on June 21, 2024, as the lead...
Read moreIn 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 the frequency spectrum, leading to a muddy mix. Traditional sidechain compression is a popular solution, but it typically reduces the entire sound of one instrument rather than targeting the specific frequency causing the issue. This is where multiband compression sidechaining comes into play.
Instruments like bass guitars and kick drums occupy similar frequency ranges, particularly in the low end (usually between 40Hz and 150Hz). When these elements overlap, it can result in a lack of clarity. Traditional sidechain compression helps by lowering the volume of one sound when the other is present, but it affects the entire frequency range of the instrument. Multiband compression allows for more precision by only affecting the clashing frequencies.
Multiband compression sidechaining gives you the flexibility to address frequency-specific issues while leaving the rest of the instrument untouched. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply it in your mix:
An excellent example of an artist using multiband compression sidechaining effectively is Skrillex. In his genre of electronic dance music, where bass and drums are central to the mix, frequency clashes can easily occur. Skrillex often layers multiple bass sounds, and through the use of multiband compression sidechaining, he ensures that these layers complement rather than compete with his drums. By carefully isolating and controlling specific frequency bands, he maintains both the punch of his drums and the power of his bass without compromising either.
The benefit of using multiband compression sidechaining is its precision. Rather than reducing the entire volume of an instrument, it only affects the problematic frequency bands. This approach ensures that other important characteristics of the instrument remain intact, resulting in a cleaner, more defined mix.
Multiband compression sidechaining is an essential tool for producers looking to achieve a more balanced mix. By focusing on specific frequency bands rather than the entire instrument, you can prevent clashes and maintain clarity. Famous producers like Skrillex rely on this technique to keep their mixes clean and impactful. Incorporating this method into your own production workflow can elevate the quality of your mixes, ensuring that each element stands out clearly while still fitting together cohesively.