One of the most common questions a DJ or producer asks when starting out is how to transition between different BPMs. Changing the melody so that the transition fits the new beat is what these song adjustments entail.
In this guide, you will discover how to use various techniques to transition between two different tempos (and possibly even two different genres). This can be very useful for your streaming parties, or if you just want to get better at your craft.
How to transition between songs with different BPM
Transitioning between different beats per minute (BPM) in music can be a difficult task for a DJ or music producer. However, with a little practice and an understanding of the basic principles, it can be done smoothly and effectively.
- The first step in moving from one BPM to another is to know the BPM of the songs to be mixed. Most digital audio workstations (DAWs) and DJ software have a BPM detection feature that can help you determine the BPM of a track.
- Once you know the BPM of the tracks you are going to mix, you can start planning the transition. Transitioning between different BPMs is a skill that requires practice. It is important to experiment with different techniques and find the one that works best.
Beatmatch
A common technique for transitioning from one BPM to another is to use the “beatmatch” method. This consists of matching the beats of the two tracks by adjusting the tempo of one of them using a pitch control.
For example, if you are going from a track with a BPM of 128 to a track with a BPM of 130, you would slow down the 128 BPM track slightly to match the 130 BPM track. This can be done by adjusting the pitch control of the DJ or DAW software.
Phase Alignment
Another method that can be used to move from one BPM to another is “phase alignment”. This is to align the phase of the two tracks by adjusting the position of the beats.
For example, if you go from one track with a BPM of 128 to another with a BPM of 130, you would align the beats of the 128 BPM track with the beats of the 130 BPM track. This can be done by adjusting the position of the beats using a beat matching algorithm.
Crossfade
Another technique is to use a “crossfade” method, which involves gradually attenuating one track while gradually attenuating the other. This can be done by adjusting the volume levels of the two tracks using a crossfader.
This technique can be especially effective when transitioning between tracks in your music library which have a similar BPM.
Effects
It is also important to use effects and equalizers to smooth the transition. For example, using a low-pass filter on the fading track can help remove some of the higher frequencies, making the fading track easier to hear.
Similarly, using a high pass filter on the track that fades in can help remove some of the lower frequencies, making it easier to hear the track that fades out.
Rewind
Rewinding the recording allows you to start over from a good point in the song. You have the option of starting from the beginning, at the breakdown/buildup, or 8 beats before the drop.
You can take advantage of speaking into the microphone with this simple and basic method. This allows you to encourage the audience and instantly change the speed of the song.
Reduce the sound with Reverb/Delay
One effects approach you can use is to combine delay and reverb before cutting the music with the channel fader. Keep the channel fader down and press play on the next new track (at a different BPM), e.g. go from 174 BPM to 128 BPM.
This approach can be used to slightly alter the tempo of a piece of music. You have to use reverb/delay to reduce the volume of the track, quickly change the tempo, and then bring the volume back up.
The tempo of a song is often just as important as the lyrics and overall sound. Too fast or too slow a transition between songs can be disorienting to the listener. Like many other aspects of DJing, a transition is something that takes time and experience to get used to.
In any case, if you want to practice your craft, Wavezoo is a place for DJs to connect with the world and to do live streaming sessions. What are you waiting for?
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