10 Steps: How To Make 'Phonk' Music!

10 Steps: How To Make 'Phonk' Music!

Creating phonk music involves blending elements of hip-hop, trap, and Memphis rap, often characterized by lo-fi aesthetics, heavy bass, and vintage samples. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Choose Your DAW

Select a digital audio workstation (DAW) like FL Studio, Ableton Live, or Logic Pro. These are ideal for beat-making and sampling.

2. Set the Tempo

Phonk tracks usually range from 80 to 110 BPM. Set your project’s tempo within this range.

3. Find or Create a Drum Kit

  • Drum Samples: Look for lo-fi or vintage drum samples, especially snares, kicks, and hi-hats. Websites like Splice and Loopmasters often have great packs.
  • Kick Drum: Start with a punchy kick on the downbeats (1, 2, 3, 4).
  • Snare: Add a snappy snare on the 2 and 4 beats.
  • Hi-Hats: Use closed hi-hats on the off-beats and consider adding some triplets or rolls for variation.

4. Create a Bassline

  • Bass Sound: Choose a deep, 808-style bass. You can either synthesize it or use sample packs.
  • Pattern: Write a simple bassline that complements your kick drum, creating a solid foundation.

5. Incorporate Samples

  • Vocal Samples: Look for chopped or pitched-down vocal samples, often taken from old hip-hop tracks or movies.
  • Instrument Samples: Use vintage samples (like jazz or soul) for melody lines. Websites like Tracklib or Splice can provide good sources.

6. Add Melodic Elements

  • Synths or Keys: Use soft synths or keys to create atmospheric pads or melodies. A chill, ambient vibe works well.
  • Chops and Effects: Manipulate your samples with pitch shifts, time stretching, and effects to create a unique sound.

7. Arrange Your Track

  • Structure: Typical phonk tracks have an intro, verse, hook, and outro. Keep it simple but effective.
  • Transitions: Use drops, breaks, and builds to create interest and maintain the listener's attention.

8. Add Effects

  • Lo-Fi Effects: Consider using distortion, vinyl crackle, and reverb to give your track a vintage feel.
  • Filtering: Use EQ to roll off high frequencies for that gritty, lo-fi sound.

9. Mixing and Mastering

  • Balance Levels: Make sure your drums, bass, and samples sit well in the mix.
  • Compression: Use compression to add punch to your drums and tighten your mix.
  • Final Touches: Master your track to ensure it has a polished sound.

10. Experiment and Refine

Phonk is all about creativity and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try new sounds, patterns, and arrangements until you find something that resonates with you.

By following these steps and continually experimenting, you'll be well on your way to creating your own phonk music!

By the Stealify Team! 

Check out our MIDI Pack collection to help you produce hit songs faster & easier! Simply drag and drop! https://stealifysounds.com/collections/frontpage

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