Creating chords and basslines – Advanced techniques, arpeggiation, chord progressions

In this recipe, we will explore advanced techniques for creating compelling chord progressions and melodic basslines using FL Studio. Chords and basslines form the foundation of a track, providing harmonic richness and driving energy. By delving into arpeggiation, chord voicings, and rhythmic patterns, you will learn how to create captivating and emotionally charged musical compositions that captivate your listeners.

Getting ready

• FL Studio software
• Basic understanding of music theory
• Virtual instruments loaded in FL Studio

How to do it

1. Set up your project in FL Studio and select the virtual instruments you want to use for your chords and basslines.
2. Decide on the key and scale you’ll be working with for your chords and bassline.
3. Begin by creating a chord progression. Use the Piano roll to input the root notes of each chord, keeping them in sync with your desired rhythm:

Figure 2.6: How chord progression looks in the Piano roll

4. Experiment with different chord voicings and inversions to add variety and richness to your progression.
5. Once you have your chord progression, move on to the bassline. Use the Piano roll to create a melodic bassline that complements the chords.
6. Consider using arpeggiation techniques to add complexity and movement to your chords and bassline. Experiment with different arpeggio patterns and timings.
7. Pay attention to the relationship between the chords and bassline. Ensure they work together harmonically and rhythmically.
8. Experiment with different chord progressions to evoke different emotions and moods.
9. Fine-tune and adjust any notes or timings to create a cohesive and compelling chord progression and bassline.
10. Play back your composition using the virtual instrument. Make any necessary adjustments until you’re satisfied with the overall sound.

There’s more

Here are some tips for arpeggiation:

• Select a chord in the Piano roll and open the Arpeggiation settings. Experiment with different arpeggio patterns, such as up, down, up-down, or random, to create movement and interest.
• Arpeggiation refers to the playing or sounding of individual notes of a chord in a sequence, rather than simultaneously. In music, an arpeggio is created by playing notes of a chord in a specific order, typically ascending or descending. This technique is often used to add a sense of fluidity, expression, or ornamentation to a musical passage, and it is commonly employed on instruments such as the guitar or piano. Arpeggiation can be an essential element in various musical genres, contributing to the overall texture and character of a piece. Using this technique, you will create another feeling to your melody instead of playing all notes of the chord at the same time.
• Adjust the speed or rate of the arpeggio to control the timing and rhythm of notes. Faster arpeggios can add energy and excitement, while slower ones can create a more relaxed and dreamy atmosphere.
• Combine arpeggiation with sustained chords or staccato notes to add contrast and dynamics to your composition.
• Layer multiple arpeggios with different patterns and velocities to create intricate and textured musical arrangements.

Here are some tips for chord voicings:

• Experiment with different chord inversions to create unique and interesting harmonic progressions. Inversions can add a sense of movement and flow to your chords.
• Explore adding extensions and alterations to your chords, such as seventh chords or suspended chords, to create tension and complexity.
• Consider using open voicings, where notes of the chord are spread out across different octaves, to create a fuller and more expansive sound.

Here are some tips for basslines:

• Experiment with different rhythmic patterns for your bassline. Syncopated rhythms or syncopated accents can add groove and energy to your composition.
• Explore using slides or glides between notes in your bassline to create smooth and melodic movements.
• Consider adding variations and fills to your bassline to keep it interesting and engaging.
• If you create a bassline from the same chord progression, you could see your notes in the background, in the Piano roll, as a Ghost channel. This makes it easier to create your bassline while seeing your chord notes:

Figure 2.7: A bassline taken from our chord progression

Congratulations! You have explored advanced techniques for creating compelling chord progressions and melodic basslines using FL Studio. By utilizing arpeggiation, chord voicings, and rhythmic patterns, you have learned how to create harmonically rich and captivating musical foundations for your tracks. Remember to experiment with different arpeggio patterns, chord inversions, and rhythmic variations to add complexity and emotion to your compositions.

In the next recipe, we will dive into the process of editing and manipulating MIDI files to further enhance your musical arrangements. Get ready to take your tracks to the next level!