How to use reference tracks
Let’s talk about some tips for using reference tracks like a pro.
Because if you are not using reference tracks, then it is the simplest way to start making significant improvements.
They act as a map, giving you a clear direction and inspiration while still allowing you to infuse your unique inspiration.
In a professional context, the first thing I ask of any client is for a reference.
As an artist, the first thing I do is reference music that is inspiring me.
Any track can be a reference, but it’s not enough to just listen on Spotify or YouTube. You must bring the audio file into your DAW so you can really analyze it.
Match the BPM, and line it up on your metronome, then get to work analyzing.
Let’s go over a few of the most important elements you can take away from a good reference.
—
3 Key Things To Pull From Reference Tracks
—
1. Proven Form (Arrangement):
Arrangement is a big part of what defines a genre. No one “owns” an arrangement, they are simply form, an essential part of any creative craft.
All throughout time, we’ve used arrangement as a form to define genre.
For example, part of what makes Jazz Jazz, Blues Blues, EDM EDM, or Pop Pop is literally the song form.
So if you want to make a song similar to a reference, we must borrow its form.
For example:
- Is it a song relying on Verse -> Prechorus -> Chorus -> Verse -> Prechorus -> Chorus -> Bridge -> Chorus?
- Is it an EDM track relying on Intro -> Build -> Drop -> Breakdown -> Rebuild -> Drop?
- Is it a track designed for TV relying on Intro -> Hook -> Rebuild -> Hook -> Button End?
By analyzing and copying the arrangement of a reference track, you can structure your music in a way that feels familiar and holds clearer value in the world.
When they introduce an element, you introduce an element.
When they use a filter sweep, you use a filter sweep.
When they begin the snare roll, you begin the snare roll.
This isn’t about copying melodies or chords, and it’s not about copying the reference exactly - it’s about introducing the elements from your unique song following a proven form.
It’s an important nuance.
—
2. Proven Sound Palette (Instrumentation):
One of the most challenging aspects for many music producers is picking sounds that work well together.
And while it’s almost impossible to get our sounds to ever be exactly the same as a reference, we can definitely borrow from the same “family” of sounds to give us a proven template of timbre!
As you listen to your reference, take notes on every “type” of sound being used, and where it’s used.
- Is it an EDM track using a dark pluck synth and warm Reese bass in the verse, then a bright open synth lead and pluck bass in the drop? Copy that direction!
- Is it a funky pop track using a groovy slap bass and muted synth chords with a tight acoustic-inspired drum kit? Copy that direction!
Fill your project with similar, inspiring sounds before you even start - this will keep you inspired and moving quickly, allowing you to focus on creating instead of wasting hours searching for sounds mid-project.
—
3. Effective Transitions:
Great transitions can make all the difference, bringing an okay song to commercial quality.
Transitions help your track flow smoothly from one section to another, and also create what I like to call “special moments” that can stay in a listener's head or even make your track be picked for a media placement.
Use your reference as the guide:
- Where do they have transitions and how do they execute them?
- Do they use sweeps, sub drops, or impact effects?
- Do they create moments of silence?
- Do they use filter sweeps or automation?
Emulate these techniques in your own way to give your track the same special moments that elevate your professionalism.
—
Remember - referencing is a superpower!
If you don’t reference, you can’t blame yourself if you get stuck… because how did you expect to get anywhere if you didn’t have a map? 😉
This is not something you just “get” after one time - you will need to practice this many, many times.
And it will be worth it.