Chapter 9: Incorporating Vocals

Vocal Sampling Techniques

Vocal sampling is a powerful and creative way to incorporate the human element into your Deep Wave productions, adding texture, emotion, and a distinctive character to your tracks. This chapter will explore the various techniques for sampling vocals effectively, including sourcing, editing, and processing samples to achieve the desired artistic effect.

1. Understanding Vocal Sampling

a. What is Vocal Sampling?

  • Definition: Vocal sampling involves recording or selecting snippets of vocal performances and integrating them into a track. This could involve isolated phrases, words, or even modified vocal sounds to create unique textures and rhythms.
  • Purpose and Use: Vocal samples can be used for melodic hooks, background textures, rhythmic elements, or to convey emotions and deepen the listener's connection to the music.

2. Sourcing Vocal Samples

a. Recording Your Own Samples

  • Original Performances: Recording your own vocals allows full creative control. Consider collaborating with vocalists to capture original vocal performances that fit your vision for the track.
  • Vocal Techniques: Encourage various vocal techniques—melodic phrases, spoken word, breathy whispers, or ad-libs. Each technique adds a different flavor to the final product.

b. Using Sample Libraries

  • Commercial Vocal Sample Packs: There are numerous sample packs available online that feature high-quality vocal samples. When choosing packs, look for ones that fit the Deep Wave aesthetic, offering diverse styles and variations.
  • Royalty-Free Libraries: Utilize royalty-free vocal sample libraries to ensure that you can use the samples in your projects without legal issues or additional costs.

c. Online Resources

  • Vocal Sample Websites: Explore platforms like Splice, Loopmasters, or Sounds.com for curated vocal samples that can seamlessly fit into your productions.
  • Collaboration Platforms: Consider collaborating with other producers or vocalists who share your musical vision, and obtain their fresh vocal takes for your projects.

3. Editing Vocal Samples

a. Trimming and Slicing

  • Precision Trimming: Begin by trimming audio clips to isolate the desired vocal phrases. Focus on capturing the essence of the performance while cutting out any unnecessary silence or noise.
  • Slicing for Rhythm: Slice longer vocal samples into smaller pieces, allowing you to rearrange them rhythmically. This can create interesting patterns that add a unique element to your track.

b. Tuning and Pitch Correction

  • Tuning Tools: Use vocal tuning software (like Auto-Tune or Melodyne) to adjust the pitch of sampled vocals. This ensures the samples fit well within the key of your track.
  • Creative Pitch Shifting: Experiment with pitch shifting to create harmonies or unique layered textures by altering the fundamental frequency of your samples.

4. Processing Vocal Samples

a. Adding Effects

  • Reverb and Delay: Apply effects such as reverb and delay to layers of vocal samples. Experiment with different types of reverb (room, hall, plate) and adjust wet/dry levels to create atmosphere and depth.
  • Distortion and Saturation: Gentle distortion or saturation can add warmth and character to vocal samples, giving them more presence and richness in the mix.

b. Layering Techniques

  • Stacking Samples: Create a fuller sound by layering multiple vocal samples on top of each other. This could include harmonies, vocal chops, and ad-libs.
  • Vocal Chops: Employ chopped snippets that can act as melodic phrases or rhythmic elements, making your track feel dynamic and engaging.

5. Creative Uses of Vocals in Sampling

a. Building Melody and Rhythm

d- Melodic Hooks: Sample vocal phrases that make strong melodic hooks. These can serve as catchy focal points throughout a track, drawing in listeners.

  • Rhythmic Elements: Use rhythmic vocal samples as percussion or groove elements. Manipulating timing and pitch can create a fresh rhythmic component in your mix.

b. Using Spoken Word or Narratives

  • Ambient Vocal Textures: Consider incorporating spoken word samples or narrative snippets to add an atmospheric element and enhance the storytelling aspect of your music.
  • Vocal Effects: Processing spoken samples with effects can transform them into atmospheric textures, further enriching your sonic palette.

6. Practical Exercises for Vocal Sampling

  • Record Your Own Vocals: Spend time recording various vocal performances, focusing on different styles, tones, and techniques. Experiment with both melodic phrases and spoken word.
  • Create a Vocal Sample Library: Start building a personal library of vocal samples you find or create. Tag them based on styles, textures, or emotional qualities for easier access.
  • Layering Experimentation: Choose a vocal sample and layer it with another vocal or instrumental element, experimenting with effects and sound manipulation to achieve a unique texture.

Conclusion

Incorporating vocal sampling techniques allows you to add depth and character to your Deep Wave tracks. Whether recording your own samples or using pre-existing ones, the potential for creativity is vast. By understanding the fundamentals of sourcing, editing, processing, and creativity in vocal sampling, you'll enhance the emotional landscape of your music and create compelling compositions that resonate with listeners. In the next chapter, we will explore the intricacies of live vocal performances in Deep Wave, including techniques for translating your studio sound to live settings.