Once you have analyzed your content, the tempo and key code metadata information can be written into the file in various ways, for example appearing in the file’s name. Selected songs after analysis using Mixed in Key (note both the Camelot Key and tempo written at the end of the file name) Organize Your Song Sequence Mixed in Key’s ‘Camelot Wheel’ created by Mark Davis Key codes that appear adjacent to each other on the wheel would also result in a harmonious mix, for example 1A could mix into either a 12A or 2A, it could also mix into a 1B but in this case the key would change from minor to major (an ‘A’ suffix denotes a minor key and a ‘B’ suffix denotes a major). The simplest way to ensure mixes are in key would be to use only songs assigned with the same key code, but there are also other rules that apply. The ‘Camelot Wheel’ then provides a visual representation of which songs have keys that compliment one another. Mixed in Key analyses your music and assigns each song one of twelve ‘key codes’ based on the ‘Camelot System’. The idea behind Mixed In Key is that it analyzes the harmonies and melodies of your music and shows you the musical key of every track to help you choose tracks that are harmonically compatible with each other. Whilst the songs downloaded from Beatport feature information regarding tempo and key, what about the songs sourced elsewhere? This is where a handy application ‘Mixed In Key’ comes to the rescue. This concept ensures a seamless transition from track to track, with songs blending effortlessly from one to the next. Tempo & Keyįor a DJ set to flow naturally, the music selection should generally be of similar original tempo and should also be mixed by the DJ harmonically, or, "in tune".
If you wish to follow the tutorial using the same songs we are using, please download the song selection from Beatport, iTunes, or another online store of your choice. *** You can follow along with the tutorial using your own song selection. ‘Back to Life’ (Original Mix) by Don DiabloĤ. ‘Young Again’ (Extended Mix) by Hardwell feat. ‘Calabria’ (Firebeatz Remix) by Rune RKĢ. In this tutorial we will create a DJ Mix using 4 tunes listed on Beatport’s Top 100 (November 2014), which are as follows:ġ. Music featured on the website can be previewed before purchase and the built in player also states the tempo and key of each track. The Beatport monthly Top 100 offers those wishing to go down a mainstream route a guaranteed selection of crowd pleasers, whilst the DJ looking to be more original can browse the numerous sub-genres or DJ charts to find more obscure material. For the purpose of this article we will be utilizing material purchased through Beatport.īeatport is an online music store geared specifically towards DJ’s and those wishing to discover and purchase new music. Along with web-based services, there are also many DJ / Record Pool services available such as: Promo Only, DJCity, Dixie Dance Kings, Franchise Record Pool, BPM Supreme, and many more. A great place to start searching for musical content is Beatport, another is Soundcloud. Whichever camp you fall into the art of selection is crucial. There are DJ’s who follow the pack and play safe sets comprising of the hits, entertaining the masses and no doubt lining their pockets in the process and on the flip side are the DJ’s who attempt to be different, exposing their audiences to unfamiliar sonic landscapes on a journey of musical exploration. There are two definite paths DJ’s can follow. it can be difficult to know where to begin in accessing and selecting your music.
With such an abundance of music being released worldwide on a daily basis.
You can also follow along with our song selection by purchasing the songs from Beatport, iTunes, etc.
This tutorial covers most of the critical aspects to create a professional quality Mixtape!įeel free to utilize your own song selection to apply the following techniques, allowing you to create your own individual mix.
We also will discuss sequencing the mix, volume and automation techniques, creating a submaster, tape slow-down effects, limiting and dynamics.
Learn about track selection, how to use “Mixed in Key” to choose tracks that are harmonically compatible, dealing with tempo changes, using the Camelot System, removing unwanted audio, elasticizing clips, importing audio, etc.