Overview
Join IO's resident R&B nerd, Josh Wen, for a four-week deep dive into all things rhythm and blues. From its historical and musical roots to its modern-day tropes, this course will explore musical and technical techniques to help you level up your productions and get them sounding like your favorite cuts.
Course Outcomes
• Explore Drum Language: Gain new rhythm language by exploring grooves and patterns from the genres that influenced R&B.
• Expand Your Harmonic Vocabulary: Break the rules in an informed way after you master new music theory concepts based on time-tested songs and progressions.
• Design Classic Patches: Learn how to synthesize classic sounds found in your favorite records.
Class Topics
R&B History: Learn the defining characteristics of the genres that influenced R&B.
Drum Composition: Dial in your drum patterns whether it’s a sampled loop, acoustic kits, or MIDI Drums. Explore patterns ranging from Blues Shuffles to New Jack Swing and beyond.
Music Theory: Learn the essential harmonic language needed to produce in this style. From Blues harmony and Secondary Dominants, to exploring Parallel Keys - you’ll be equipped to navigate the sounds of R&B.
Sound Design: Recreate classic synth patches in Ableton and using soft synths. Curate your collection of go-to sounds and understand the basics of refining them to match the situation.
Arrangement: Learn how to write Backing Vocals, Horn Arrangements, and String Lines in conjunction with your standard track elements. Enhance your productions with more sophisticated band arrangements.
Circle Community
As part of the IO Music Academy Circle, students gain exclusive access to an online hub where they can connect, collaborate, and receive feedback on their tracks. You'll get lifetime access to course materials such as class recordings, dynamic notes, and workshop videos.
Weekly workshops and collaboration opportunities with fellow students and alumni ensure that you stay engaged and continue to grow, even after completing the course.
Student Requirements
• Laptop (2019 or newer MacBook Pro recommended)
• Wired Headphones
• 49-Key MIDI Keyboard
• Ableton Live 12 (available at 40% off)