How to make Synthwave Like TheWeekend
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How to make Synthwave Like TheWeekend
Synthwave is a genre of electronic music that is characterized by its use of vintage synthesizer sounds, retro-futuristic aesthetics, and nostalgic atmosphere. TheWeeknd has incorporated elements of Synthwave into some of his music, such as the song "Blinding Lights". If you want to make Synthwave like TheWeeknd, follow these steps:
Step 1:
Choose the Right Sounds The first step in making Synthwave is to choose the right sounds. Look for sample packs or plugins that have a vintage sound, such as the classic analog synthesizer sounds of the 1980s. Other sounds to look for include drum hits, percussion samples, synth pads, and basslines. Synthwave often incorporates atmospheric sounds like reverb, delay, and chorus, so it's a good idea to look for these as well.
Step 2:
Create the Beat The beat in Synthwave is typically a slow, pulsing groove that has a hypnotic feel. Start by creating a simple beat with a kick and snare, then layer in percussion samples to add interest to the beat. Use a plugin like Battery or Ableton Live's Drum Rack to create your drum sounds.
Step 3:
Add the Bassline The bassline is an essential element of Synthwave. It is typically a simple, repeating pattern that provides the foundation for the rest of the track. Use a plugin like Serum or Massive to create the bassline or use a sample from a Synthwave sample pack. Experiment with different sounds and rhythms until you find something that fits well with your track.
Step 4:
Add Melodic Elements Once you have your beat and bassline, it's time to add melodic elements to your track. This can include synths, pads, or any other instrument that you want to use. Experiment with different sounds and melodies until you find something that works well with your track.
Step 5:
Arrange the Track Once you have all of your elements in place, it's time to arrange your track. Look for the right buildup and drop sections, and create a breakdown section that works well with your track. Use automation to add interest and movement to your track.
Step 6:
Mix and Master Your Track After you have arranged your track, it's time to mix and master it. This is the process of balancing the levels of each element in your track and adding effects to make it sound polished and professional. You can use EQ, compression, reverb, and other effects to achieve the sound that you want.
Synthwave Sample Packs In addition to using plugins and synthesizers to create your Synthwave sounds, you can also use sample packs to add depth and variety to your tracks. Here are some popular Synthwave sample packs:


Synthwave Serum Presets Serum is a popular synthesizer plugin that is widely used in electronic music production. If you are using Serum, you can also find a variety of Synthwave presets that can be used to create your tracks.