Make a loop into a track

It's simple to make a killer loop, but how does that become a dancefloor-filling hit? It only takes a few steps to get the process started...

- Sara Simms

While many producers can create a great-sounding loop, it takes a little more knowledge to build a track that keeps the listener engaged throughout. In this month’s masterclass, we’ll learn how to arrange an EDM track from a loop and examine the elements each section should consist of.

To understand electronic music structures, we can refer to the pop music song structure, where each song is made up of different parts that all serve a purpose. In pop music, a song consists of a verse, pre-chorus, chorus, second verse, pre-chorus, chorus, bridge and finishes with a chorus. Modern electronic music utilises a slightly different structure, yet the sections bear some resemblance. A typical EDM track starts with an intro, moves on to a construction part where more elements are added, then the full beat, build-up and breakdown, drop, buildup and breakdown, second drop, deconstruction section and an instrumental outro. A good EDM track captivates the listener’s attention by creating contrasting parts, and creates excitement via tension and release.

Step by step Make a loop into a track

1 Start by making an arrangement guide for the track by making a new MIDI track. Create blank MIDI regions eight bars in length for each section and label each one with the names of the parts of the track. This arrangement will be Intro (2x), Verse (2x), Drop (2x), Verse, (2x) Drop (2x), Breakdown/Buildup, Drop (2x) and Outro.

2 Colour each section differently so it’s easy to see the different parts. Start with an existing loop that you’ve created that consists of drums, bass, synths, other instrumentation, and vocals. Place the loop in the Drop section. Make sure all of the elements work together well, as the drop will be the highlight of the track. Remove any elements that feel out of place.