With 2014’s days numbered and the year drawing to a close, we can safely say 2014 was one for the record books. The year was filled with so many memorable moments in music, but what really made this year’s soundtrack so distinctly 2014? Today we go over some of this years most popular music production trends.
1. The Return of the 808
The 808 was first put on the market by Roland in the early 80s and has been the go-to stock sound for hip-hop to Chicago house. Every half a decade or so, the sound makes its way back into the crosshairs of pop music to rattle a new generation of car windows.
Examples:
2 Chains – Birthday Song
Nicki Minaj – Anaconda
2. The Eric Pryda Snare
The Pryda Snare made popular in the track “Miami To Atlanta” by artist Pryda, has become a household name and a go to in most dance music producer’s playbooks. It is characterized by a heavy snare with a big reverb right before the “drop” of most contemporary dance music hits.
Examples:
Martin Garrix – Animals
Calvin Harris – Outside ft. Ellie Goulding
3. The Korg Polysix In Hiphop
Korg polysix’s unmistakable digital bass was a staple in early hiphop and 80s nuwave. This year it has made a comeback on a few chart topping hiphop tracks adding some vintage flair to throwback rap tracks.
Example:
Iggy Azalea – Fancy
Big Sean – I Don’t F**k With You
4. Chant Tracks
This recent adaptation from 2000s trap and dirty south music has become another a go-to for any producer who wants to liven up their vocal mix. The sound is characterize by a simple “yeah” “hey” or “yo” on the 8th notes of a beat. Think of it like the ranch dressing of vocal takes.
Example:
Lil Jon – Turn Down For What
Ariana Grande – Problem
5. The Big Room House Formula
With the explosion of EDM in the Americas the “big room house” sound has become the standard for any pop or dance music outfit. The sound can be recognized by its heavy distorted kicks, uniform tempo of 128-130bpm, and its unmistakable staccato leads. Our good friend the Pryda Snare makes a return appearance as well.
Examples:
Daleri – Epic Mashleg
Makj – Generic
