When Native Instruments launched Remix Decks and the Traktor Kontrol F1 people went bananas over the possibilities. Remix Decks remind me of Photoshop; a ton of different ways to do the same task. That task being a live remix or performance element. In this tutorial I show you how to use a Remix Deck to well… Remix. Instead of loading your empty cells with various loops and one shots, this tutorial will show you how to creatively and technically make a song specific remix set. This is especially useful if you are DJing a set and want to have a short moment of in-depth live performance.

Building song specific remix sets basics:

1. Popular songs are the easiest to build a song specific remix set.

This is true because they have world-wide recognizable hooks. They also follow a very specific song structure that makes capturing loops very easy.

2. Don’t forget the One Shots

While it’s easy to forget our lovely one shot wonders in a world filled with beefy 8-16 beat loops, it’s important to remember that live performance aspect. And one shots are the best way to actually remix on the fly. If you grab an 8 beat loop try grabbing (3-4) 1-2 count one shots and switch between the loop and a cut up version with the one shots.

3. Pick a complimentary track

Always find ways to introduce new elements that will help you remix or mashup the main track. For the demo I selected a Dubstep track with the same key and used this as the main beat. This will help you remix and segue into the next track.

4. Preparation is key

What I love best about Traktor and DJing over production is that instant gratification. However, when working with Remix Decks and sets you must be prepared. This is actually half of the fun, while prepping and capturing samples seems tedious the payoff of a totally unique remix which in turn will get your crowd pumped. Remember to remove SNAP & QUANTIZE while capturing your samples (you will get greater control over capturing).

There you have it. A simple guide to building your own song specific remix sets. Do you have any techniques for building song specific remix sets? If so sound off in the comments and share them.

Until next time, happy remixing.

Keep it cool,

Priscilla J.