Damian Force has an incredible history in the dance music scene after releases with labels such as Loaded Records, Pacha and Starlight Records.
His music has graced the top of charts such as Beatport and Billboard along with USA National Airplay. Damian has a unique understanding of music as he was DJing vinyl from the age of 12 and has a major range of influences that inspire him to create outstanding tracks so we caught up with him to find out some top production tips.
T.H.E – Do you think that it is essential to be able to play an instrument or to be able to know music theory first before learning how to produce?
Damian Force – Nowadays there are so many technical possibilities for production that it is important to have a good ear for music. Start learning how to use the midi keys, and then the musical theory.
T.H.E – What equipment would you suggest is best for a beginner to buy?
Damian Force – A good computer is needed. I prefer Mac and simple midi keys (like Native Instruments etc.), studio monitors from five inches and a sound card.
T.H.E – Can you suggest any good YouTube channels or blogs for people to learn from?
Damian Force – Nathan Larsen Music, because he teaches things so well!
T.H.E – What are some bad habits new producers should try to avoid?
Damian Force – In the process of creation, it is better always to stay sober so that the next day you can recognize your work.
T.H.E – How do you spark your creativity?
Damian Force – Now, the best motivation is my Damian Force 360 Dome Show, this is a combination of the 3D visualization reaction in the dome to my music. It is necessary to calculate in advance the speed of the track, it’s filling with sounds as that it is combined with those pieces of Art from which the video is created. I come to the studio and light up as I begin to write. Making a good track is the best motivation. I can’t stop making music because this is how I live. It’s always in me.
T.H.E – How do you normally approach writing a new song?
Damian Force – A melody is born in my head and then I sing it on a voice recorder. Typically, this is a chorus or top line in a future song. I like to create a hook, then an arrangement is born from it.
T.H.E – What piece of advice do you wish was given to you when you first started producing music?
Fewer melodies and synthesizer tracks in one track, each arrangement tool should be in its place and not interfere with the rest. In the beginning, I tried to put a lot of ideas into one Damian Force – track.
T.H.E – Which plug-ins, if any are best to use?
Damian Force – Waves – there are a lot of things on there and I use them so often in my songs.
T.H.E – Do you think it is essential to learn how to mix and master?
Damian Force – It is better to learn how to do the initial mixing yourself, but if you don’t have enough skills in this, give it to the professionals. Mastering is all for the pro’s as they have the proper hardware.
T.H.E – What is your advice on sampling?
Damian Force – It is important to be able to work with samples for your track and to look out for the quality of the sample you’re going to use so you don’t lose a lot of time processing it.
