Explore the ever-changing world of current music, where few genres have had the same impact as trap music. This book goes beyond the basics, recognizing trap music’s characteristics, delving into the challenges of creating your own trap masterpiece, and spotlighting chart-topping tracks. We shed light on the artists behind these songs, trap musicians whose names are inscribed in the genre’s history.
Join us as we follow the evolution of what is trap music from its origin to the massive stages of renowned festivals resounding with pounding beats.
What is trap music?
Trap music initially appeared in the late 1990s in the Southern United States, namely in Atlanta. Trap rhythms are robust, with booming bass, quick hi-hats, and synthesizers. OutKast and Underground Kingz (UGK) were early pioneers in trap music.
Trap music is much more than just beats and vocals. A “trap” is a well-known drug-dealing place, and trap songs usually feature themes like as street life, hustling, and overcoming obstacles. Trap house music has grown as a significant subgenre of hip-hop, influencing a diverse range of artists and genres within the industry.
Historical context of trap music (evolution)
Trap electronic dance music
Trap music gained popularity in the early 2010s, thanks in large part to the influence of producers such as Lex Luger. Trap, a kind of electronic dance music (EDM), featured EDM elements such as high-energy drops and synthesizers. This combination boosted trap music’s appeal and catapulted it into the global dance community.
The Latin trap
Latin trap emerged as a popular subgenre that combined trap beats and Latin musical themes. Bad Bunny and Ozuna rose to prominence by blending trap, reggaeton, salsa, and other Latin beats. Latin trap became popular in Spanish-speaking areas and gained international attention, helping the genre to spread globally.
Trap becomes popular
As trap songs ruled the charts, pop artists began to incorporate trap elements into their music, resulting in the subgenre “trap pop.” With musicians like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Ariana Grande incorporating trap rhythms into their triumphs, trap’s distinct sound gained acceptance among a broader audience.
K-pop’s Trap
Trap components were well received by K-pop, which is known for its versatility and willingness to experiment with new genres. Many K-pop singers and artists incorporated trap rhythms into their songs, resulting in a hugely successful fusion that demonstrated the genre’s adaptability and resonance with different musical cultures.
Types of trap music
Atlanta trap
· Origin: Developed in Atlanta, Georgia, during the 1990s.
· Characteristics
o Heavy bass and aggressive beats.
o Gritty lyrics depicting urban life.
o Distinctive hi-hats and 808 drum patterns.
· Pioneering artists: OutKast, T.I., Gucci Mane.
Tropical trap
· Origin: Influenced by the Caribbean, tropical trap incorporating Calypso beats and synth pop music elements gained global popularity.
· Characteristics:
o Danceable rhythms with a summery vibe.
o Fusion of trap with reggae, dancehall, and tropical house.
· Global appeal: The appeal of tropical trap often extends beyond traditional hip-hop audiences.
SoundCloud trap
· Origin: This subgenre was developed on the SoundCloud platform in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
· Characteristics:
o Do-it-yourself (DIY) ethos and experimental production.
o Unconventional sounds and sampling.
o Lo-fi aesthetics and unique production techniques.
· Platform influence: SoundCloud became a crucial space for independent artists to showcase their work.
Trap soul
· Origin: Popularized in the 2010s, this subgenre blended trap with contemporary R&B elements.
· Characteristics:
o Soulful vocals over trap-influenced production.
o Exploration of themes such as love, relationships, and personal struggles.
o Introspective and emotionally resonant lyrics.
· Key artist: Bryson Tiller played a significant role in the rise of trap soul.
Characteristics of trap music
Tempo
Trap music has a moderate to slow speed of 70 to 110 beats per minute (BPM). The slower speed emphasizes the genre’s unique and methodical character.
Beat
Trap music is recognized by its reliance on strong bass lines. The basslines, which are typically generated with deep 808 kick beats, serve as a solid and resonant foundation for the song.
Fast and intricate hi-hat patterns stand out, conveying energy and urgency. Snare rolls, often in brief bursts, contribute to the rhythms’ dynamic and combative nature.
Flow of triplets
A trap song typically uses triplets in its vocal delivery and lyrical features. This triplet flow, defined by three evenly spaced notes or beats, adds an excellent rhythmic pattern.
Transitions between rolls and risers
Rolls and risers are widely used in trap music production. These instrumental parts gradually intensify, building up anticipation for the drop. Drops are points in music where the intensity rises, and they are usually marked by a sudden change or addition of components.
Smooth transitions between musical elements are essential in a trap. Trap producers use effects like as sweeps, stutters, and pitch changes to create smooth transitions between verses, choruses, and drops.
Key elements of trap music
Patterns for heavy 808 drums
Trap music relies heavily on the 808 drum machine (rhythm composer), which produces deep and strong bottom sounds that define the genre. These percussion patterns, which comprise powerful kicks and booming bass, are the pulse of trap music. The 808’s characteristic sound has become synonymous with the genre, laying a solid basis for trap music’s intensity and rhythmic drive.
Synthesizers that are dark and aggressive
Dark and violent synths provide an intense and edgy atmosphere, which is key to trap’s sound signature. These synthesizers, which are usually distorted and modulated, help to define the genre’s sound.
Rap vocals or trap vocals
Trap music features a distinct vocal delivery. Artists use rap or trap vocals that have a certain beat and style. The rhythmic flow of verses, enticing choruses, and improvisational periods combine to create storytelling aspects that move the song forward. When vocals and instruments are combined, the genre becomes more dynamic and exciting.
Hi-hat patterns that move quickly
Trap music is distinguished by its fast-paced and complex hi-hat patterns, which are referred to as “trap hats.” The tempo and complex rhythms of the genre are set by these hi-hats. They skillfully and quickly add a layer of urgency and energy to the beats, creating a distinct sound signature.
Massive basslines
Additional heavy basslines are added to the song to increase the impact of the well-known 808. These basslines, along with the essential rhythms, give the songs power. The rhythm is determined by how well the bass and drums work together. These basslines add to the genre’s reputation for producing powerful, bass-heavy soundscapes.
Sampled hooks that are sparse but melodic
Simple but powerful sampled hooks highlight the melodic side of trap music. These rhythmic components, derived from diverse genres of music, balance the strength of the beats. The composition benefits from the minimal usage of melodies, which are frequently catchy and memorable, by generating a contrast that draws the listener in.
Dark atmospheres
Trap music is characterized by its use of gloomy and atmospheric soundscapes. This genre’s sonic textures make you feel alive. Reverb, ambient noises, and distinctive soundscapes all add to trap compositions’ immersive and emotive quality. This dramatic aspect enriches the listening experience by providing diversity in the music.
Choruses lyrical about street life, brutality, and drugs
Trap music is distinct from other genres because its lyrics frequently tell gritty, true stories about drugs, crime, and life on the streets. Lyrics are used by artists to paint vivid pictures of city life and to express their problems, battles, and harsh realities.
The impact of trap music on popular culture
Trap music has had a long-term impact on popular culture, transcending its Southern roots and become a global phenomenon. Trap music has had a broad effect on contemporary life. Heavy basslines, distinct hi-hats, and strong rhythms have found their way into hip-hop, pop, and electronic music.
The genre’s rise to the top of the music charts, along with collaborations between trap artists and pop icons, has broken down genre borders, resulting in music that appeals to a global audience. Trap culture has moved beyond music and into fashion, with trap performers frequently serving as style icons. The trap style, which combines streetwear and high fashion, is becoming increasingly popular.
How to write a trap song?
A step-by-step guide to writing a trap song is provided below:
1. Set your tempo: To achieve the typical trap feel, choose a moderate to slow tempo, typically between 70 and 110 BPM.
2. Set your tempo: Create a tight, punchy drumbeat by emphasizing the kick, snare, and hi-hats. Experiment with patterns to find the right rhythm for you.
3. Make and then play your melody: Create a memorable melody with synthesizers or other instruments. In a trap, repetition is essential, so consider writing a looped verse to anchor your song.
4. Add some drums: Mix 808 drum patterns to improve your beat. The bassline should be deep and resonant, serving as the track’s foundation.
5. Adjust the snare: To achieve the desired effect, fine-tune the snare.
6. Use distortion: Introduce distortion to certain elements, especially 808 basses, to create a gritty and edgy texture. This adds a raw and powerful quality to the overall sound.
Steps to make trap music
Step 1: Tight drums
· Begin by laying a strong foundation with tight, punchy drums.
· Concentrate on sharp hi-hats, snappy snares, and a steady kick drum.
Step 2: Banging 808 (the key to trap music)
· Create a powerful and booming 808 bassline, which is a staple of trap music.
· Experiment with slides, pitch changes, and depth and movement variations.
Step 3: Hype melodies and synths
· Make catchy and energetic tunes with synthesizers.
· To add complexity and texture to the melodic elements, layer different synths.
Step 4: Sprinkle the FX in trap music
· Sound effects that are strategically placed can improve the overall atmosphere.
· To create smooth transitions, use risers, sweeps, and other transitional effects.
Step 5: Creating energy in trap music
· Build power throughout the track by strategically introducing and removing elements.
· To shape the energy flow, use volume automation, filtering, and other techniques.
Step 6: Trap music magic moments
· Create memorable moments in the music track by combining standout moments.
· For maximum impact, use unexpected elements, drops, or unique sound design.
Step 7: Final polishes
· In the final polishing stage, fine-tune the mix and arrangement.
· For clarity and cohesion, pay attention to balance, equalizer, and compression.
· Finish with reverb and delay to add spatial depth.
Conclusion
This guide delves deeper into what is trap music, teaching you how to create your own masterpieces and highlighting chart-topping songs.