How to Remake a Famous Song: A Step-by-Step Guide for Producers.
Posted by MUSIC REMAKE on
How to Remake a Famous Song: 5 Essential Steps for Music Producers:
Have you ever wondered how your favorite producers get that perfect snare hit or that lush synth pad? Learning how to remake a song is one of the most effective ways to sharpen your music production skills. By deconstructing a hit, you gain "under-the-hood" access to professional arrangement, sound design, and mixing techniques.
In this guide, we’ll break down the process of creating a high-quality music remake that sounds professional and polished.
1. Analyze the Project (The Deconstruction Phase)
Before opening your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), you need to listen actively.
-
Identify the Tempo (BPM): Use a tap tempo tool to find the exact speed.
-
Determine the Key: Knowing the musical scale is vital for recreating melodies and basslines accurately.
-
Map the Structure: Label the sections (Intro, Verse, Chorus, Bridge) so you have a roadmap.
2. Finding the Right Sounds (Sound Design)
A great song remake lives or dies by its sound selection.
-
Drums: Don't just pick any kick drum. Listen for the "weight" and "click" of the original.
-
Synths: If the original used a Serum preset or a vintage Juno, try to find a similar wave shape (Saw, Square, or Sine).
-
Sampling: Sometimes, the easiest way to get that "remake" feel is to find the original sample the artist used.
3. Programming and MIDI
Once you have your sounds, it’s time to lay down the notes.
-
Quantization vs. Groove: While modern Pop is often perfectly on the grid, genres like Lo-Fi or Funk require a "human" feel. Adjust your MIDI notes slightly off-grid to match the original's swing.
-
Layering: Professional tracks often layer 3-4 different sounds for a single melody line to make it sound "fat."
4. The Mixing Secret: Reference Tracks
This is the most important step for SEO-level production quality. Drag the original song into your project and toggle between your version and the original. Ask yourself:
-
Is my vocal sitting too high?
-
Does my bass have enough sub-frequency?
-
Is the reverb as wide as the original?
5. Adding Your Own "Remake" Twist
While the goal of a remake is often accuracy, the most successful creators on platforms like YouTube or Spotify add a unique flair. Whether it's a "Lo-fi version" of a rock song or a "Synthwave remake" of a 90s hit, adding your signature style helps your brand stand out.
Conclusion
Remaking music isn't just about copying—it's about education. By the time you finish a project for MusicRemake.com, you’ll have a deeper understanding of what makes a hit song work.
Ready to start your next project? Keep practicing, keep listening, and keep creating.