Welcome, aspiring DJs and music producers! Are you looking to expand your knowledge and take your skills to the next level? One of the best ways to do so is by reading. That's why we've put together a list of the best books for learning DJing and music production. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pro, these books will provide valuable insights and techniques to help you achieve your goals. Join us as we explore the top books in the industry and how they can help you become a master of your craft.

 

1.

 

Summary of "How to DJ Right: The Art and Science of Playing Records" by Frank Broughton and Bill Brewster

Main Topic

The main topic of the book is DJing, specifically the art and science of playing records.

Key Ideas or Arguments

• The importance of understanding the history of DJing and the role of DJs in music culture.
• The various technical skills and techniques required to DJ effectively, such as beatmatching and mixing.
• The importance of building a record collection and selecting tracks that will keep the crowd dancing.
• The role of the DJ in shaping the overall mood and energy of the event.

Chapter Titles or Main Sections

• Part 1: What is a DJ?
• Part 2: Techniques
• Part 3: Technology
• Part 4: Styles
• Part 5: Great DJs

Key Takeaways or Conclusions

• DJing requires a combination of technical skills and musical knowledge.
• Building a record collection is an essential part of being a DJ.
• DJs have a responsibility to read the crowd and create the right atmosphere for the event.

Author's Background and Qualifications

Frank Broughton and Bill Brewster are both experienced DJs, music journalists, and authors. They have written extensively about dance music culture and have DJed at clubs and events around the world.

Comparison to Other Books on the Same Subject

"How to DJ Right" is a comprehensive guide to DJing, covering both the technical aspects of DJing and the cultural history of DJing. It is similar to other books on the subject, such as "The DJ Handbook" by Charles Slaney and "How to DJ Properly" by Frank Broughton and Bill Brewster (an earlier edition of this book).

Target Audience or Intended Readership

The book is targeted towards aspiring DJs, as well as those who are interested in the history and culture of DJing.

Reception or Critical Response to the Book

The book has received positive reviews for its comprehensive coverage of DJing and its engaging writing style.

Publisher and First Published Date

The book was published by Grove Press in 2003.

Recommendations

• "The DJ Handbook" by Charles Slaney
• "How to DJ Properly" by Frank Broughton and Bill Brewster (an earlier edition of this book)
• "Last Night a DJ Saved My Life: The History of the Disc Jockey" by Bill Brewster and Frank Broughton

To sum up, "How to DJ Right" provides a comprehensive guide to the art and science of DJing, covering everything from technical skills to the cultural history of the craft. The book emphasizes the importance of building a record collection, reading the crowd, and creating the right atmosphere for the event. 

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2.

 

Music Theory For Computer Musicians by Michael Hewitt

Main Topic

Music Theory for Computer Musicians is a guidebook that teaches music theory in a practical and easy-to-understand way, specifically designed for those who create music using computers.

Key Ideas

• Understanding the basics of music theory is essential for computer musicians who want to create professional-sounding tracks.
• The book covers essential music theory topics such as scales, chords, key signatures, and rhythm in a way that is specifically relevant to computer-based music production.
• The author uses examples from various genres, including dance, hip-hop, and electronica, to demonstrate how music theory can be applied to specific styles of music.

Chapter Titles and Sections

• Chapter 1: Basic Music Notation and Theory
• Chapter 2: Major and Minor Scales
• Chapter 3: Chords and Harmony
• Chapter 4: Chord Progressions and Song Structure
• Chapter 5: Rhythm and Time Signatures
• Chapter 6: MIDI Sequencing and Music Notation Software

Key Takeaways

• The book offers a clear and concise explanation of music theory concepts that are essential for computer musicians.
• The practical examples provided throughout the book help to apply the theoretical concepts to real-world situations.
• The chapter on MIDI sequencing and music notation software is particularly helpful for those who want to integrate music theory into their digital audio workstations.

Author's Background and Qualifications

Michael Hewitt is an experienced music technology professional and educator who has written extensively on music theory and music technology.

Comparison to Other Books

Music Theory for Computer Musicians is unique in that it focuses specifically on the needs of computer-based musicians. Other music theory books may cover similar topics but may not address the specific challenges of music production using digital audio workstations.

Target Audience

The book is aimed at computer musicians who want to improve their music theory knowledge to create more professional-sounding tracks.

Reception

The book has received positive reviews from both amateur and professional musicians. It is considered to be an excellent resource for those looking to improve their music theory knowledge in the context of computer music production.

Publisher and First Published Date

The book was published by Course Technology PTR in 2008.

Recommendations

• Music Theory in Practice: Grade 1 by Eric Taylor
• Music Theory Workbook for All Musicians by Chris Bowman
• The Chord Wheel: The Ultimate Tool for All Musicians by Jim Fleser

Biggest Takeaway

Music Theory for Computer Musicians provides a practical and relevant introduction to music theory for computer-based musicians, and is an essential resource for those looking to create professional-sounding tracks.

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3.

 

Summary of "Dance Music Manual: Tools, Toys and Techniques" by Rick Snoman

Main Topic or Theme of the Book

The book "Dance Music Manual: Tools, Toys and Techniques" provides a comprehensive guide to producing dance music.

Key Ideas or Arguments Presented

• Understanding the music production process and the tools and techniques used in dance music production.
• Learning to create beats, bass lines, melodies, and chords that fit together.
• Understanding mixing and mastering techniques to make the tracks sound polished and professional.

Chapter Titles or Main Sections of the Book with a Paragraph on Each

• Introduction: Covers the basics of music theory and sound engineering
• The Beat: Discusses the importance of rhythm and how to create it using different techniques
• Bass Lines: Explains the basics of bass lines, their function in dance music, and how to create them
• Melody: Discusses melody, harmony, and the use of synthesizers
• Chords: Covers the use of chords in dance music, how to create them, and their role in music production
• Song Structure: Explains the structure of dance music tracks and how to use it to create a compelling track
• Arrangement: Discusses the arrangement of tracks and how to create tension and release in dance music
• Mixing: Covers the mixing process, how to use different mixing techniques, and how to create space and depth in the mix
• Mastering: Explains the basics of mastering, how to use different mastering techniques, and how to finalize the track
• The Business: Discusses the music industry, including promotion, distribution, and copyright issues

Key Takeaways or Conclusions

• The book is a comprehensive guide to dance music production.
• It covers all the essential tools, techniques, and theories needed to create high-quality dance music.
• The book is suitable for both beginners and experienced producers.

Author's Background and Qualifications

Rick Snoman is a music producer, remixer, and sound designer with over 20 years of experience in the music industry. He has worked with many high-profile artists and has written several books on music production.

Comparison to Other Books on the Same Subject

The "Dance Music Manual" is highly regarded among other music production books due to its comprehensive coverage of the subject and practical approach to teaching.

Target Audience or Intended Readership

The book is aimed at aspiring dance music producers and those with a basic knowledge of music production.

Reception or Critical Response to the Book

The book has received positive reviews for its practical and easy-to-understand approach to teaching music production.

Publisher and First Published Date

The book was published by Focal Press in 2009.

Author's background and qualifications

Rick Snoman is a music producer, composer, and sound engineer with over two decades of experience in the music industry. He is also the founder of the Dance Music Production (DMP) company, which specializes in offering educational materials, including books, tutorials, and courses, on electronic dance music production.

Comparison to other books on the same subject

Compared to other books on the same subject, the Dance Music Manual stands out for its comprehensive coverage of the tools, toys, and techniques involved in electronic dance music production. The book covers everything from the basics of music theory and sound design to more advanced topics such as mixing, mastering, and creating live performances.

Target audience or intended readership

The Dance Music Manual is intended for aspiring music producers, DJs, and anyone interested in electronic dance music production. The book is suitable for both beginners and more experienced producers looking to expand their knowledge and skills.

Reception or critical response to the book

The book has received positive reviews from readers and critics alike, with many praising its comprehensive coverage, clear writing style, and practical advice. It has been described as a "must-read" for anyone interested in electronic dance music production.

Publisher and First Published Date

The Dance Music Manual was published by Focal Press in 2004.

Recommendations [Other similar books on the same topic]

Other recommended books on the same topic include:

• Making Music: 74 Creative Strategies for Electronic Music Producers by Dennis DeSantis
• Electronic Music Composition for Beginners by Jonathan Harnum
• Music Production: How to Produce Music, The Easy to Read Guide for Music Producers by Tommy Swindali

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4.

 

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook by Bobby Owsinski

Main topic or theme of the book

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook is a comprehensive guide to the art and science of mixing music. It provides readers with a deep understanding of the technical and creative aspects of mixing, as well as practical tips and techniques for achieving great mixes.

Key ideas or arguments presented

• The importance of setting goals and having a plan for the mix.
• How to set up a mixing environment and properly use the tools available.
• Strategies for balancing levels, panning, EQ, compression, and other processing techniques.
• How to create space, depth, and dimension in a mix.
• Techniques for working with vocals, drums, bass, guitars, and other instruments.
• Tips for adding effects, automation, and other creative elements to a mix.
• The importance of listening critically and objectively, and using reference tracks for comparison.

Chapter titles or main sections of the book with a paragraph on each

• Introduction: A brief overview of what to expect from the book.
• Mixing Overview: A discussion of the mixing process and the various elements that go into a mix.
• Setting Up Your Mix Room: How to optimize your mixing environment for accuracy and comfort.
• Mix Preparation: The importance of preparation and planning for a successful mix.
• Mixing Techniques: A deep dive into the various techniques and tools used in mixing, including levels, panning, EQ, compression, and more.
• The Mix: Strategies for creating a balanced, cohesive mix with depth and dimension.
• Advanced Techniques: Tips and tricks for taking your mixes to the next level, including creative effects, automation, and more.
• The Final Mix: The mastering process and how it fits into the overall mix process.
• Interviews with Mixing Engineers: Conversations with top mixing engineers about their approach to mixing and their favorite techniques.
• Glossary: A helpful reference guide to common mixing terms and concepts.

Key takeaways or conclusions

• Mixing is both an art and a science, and requires a deep understanding of both technical and creative elements.
• Preparation and planning are essential to achieving a great mix.
• Mixing is a highly personal process, and there is no one "right" way to do it.
• The key to success is to keep learning, experimenting, and developing your skills over time.

Author's background and qualifications

Bobby Owsinski is a music industry veteran with over 30 years of experience as a producer, engineer, and musician. He has worked with a wide range of artists, from Elvis to Willie Nelson to Chicago, and has authored numerous books on music production and engineering.

Comparison to other books on the same subject

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook is widely regarded as one of the best resources on mixing available, and is often compared favorably to other popular mixing guides such as "Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio" by Mike Senior and "The Art of Mixing" by David Gibson.

Target audience or intended readership

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook is intended for aspiring and experienced mixing engineers, as well as music producers, recording engineers, and musicians who want to gain a deeper understanding of the mixing process.

Reception or critical response to the book

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook has received widespread critical acclaim and is widely regarded as a must-read for anyone interested in mixing. It has been praised for its clear and practical approach, as well as its comprehensive coverage of the mixing process.

Publisher and First Published Date

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook was first published in 1999 by Thomson Course Technology, and is currently published by Hal Leonard.

Recommendations [Other similar books on the same topic]

• "Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio" by Mike Senior
• "The Art of Mixing" by David

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5.

 

Summary of "The Secrets of Dance Music Production" by David Felton and Mark Cousins

Main Topic or Theme of the Book

"The Secrets of Dance Music Production" is a comprehensive guide to producing dance music. It covers a range of topics including music theory, sound design, mixing and mastering, arrangement, and more.

Key Ideas or Arguments Presented

• Understanding the components of dance music (drums, bass, synths, etc.) and how they work together is essential for producing great dance music.
• Developing a unique sound is important, and can be achieved through experimentation and understanding the possibilities of different synthesis methods.
• Arrangement is key in dance music, with the arrangement building up and breaking down in a structured way to create tension and release.
• Mixing and mastering are critical processes, requiring both technical knowledge and an ear for balance and tone.

Chapter Titles or Main Sections of the Book with a Paragraph on Each

• The Fundamentals of Dance Music Production: Covers the basics of dance music, including music theory, rhythm, and arranging.
• Dance Music Synthesis: Discusses different synthesis methods and how to create unique sounds.
• Drum Programming: Covers the different types of drum machines and how to program them effectively.
• Bassline Creation: Focuses on the importance of bass in dance music and techniques for creating great basslines.
• Writing Melodies and Chords: Discusses different approaches to melody and harmony in dance music.
• Sound Design: Goes into more detail on synthesis and sound design, with tips on creating specific sounds.
• Effects Processing: Explores different effects and how to use them creatively.
• Arrangement: Discusses the different parts of a dance track and how to structure them effectively.
• Mixing: Focuses on the mixing process, including balancing levels, EQ, compression, and more.
• Mastering: Discusses the final stage of the production process, including preparing tracks for release.

Key Takeaways or Conclusions

• Dance music production requires a combination of technical knowledge and creative experimentation.
• Understanding the different components of dance music and how they work together is essential.
• Developing a unique sound is important in standing out from the crowd.
• Arrangement, mixing, and mastering are critical stages of the production process.

Author's Background and Qualifications

David Felton and Mark Cousins are both experienced music producers and educators, with a wealth of experience in dance music production.

Comparison to Other Books on the Same Subject

"The Secrets of Dance Music Production" is a comprehensive guide to dance music production, covering a range of topics in depth. It is comparable to other popular dance music production books, such as "Dance Music Manual" by Rick Snoman and "How to Make a Noise" by Simon Cann.

Target Audience or Intended Readership

The book is aimed at anyone interested in producing dance music, from beginners to more experienced producers.

Reception or Critical Response to the Book

The book has received positive reviews for its comprehensive coverage of dance music production and its clear, concise writing style.

Publisher and First Published Date

"The Secrets of Dance Music Production" was published by Routledge in 2016.

Recommendations for Other Similar Books on the Same Topic

• "Dance Music Manual" by Rick Snoman
• "How to Make a Noise" by Simon Cann
• "Electronic Music Production" by Sam McGuire and Josh Bess

The Book's Biggest Takeaway and Point in a Singular Sentence

"The Secrets of Dance Music Production" emphasizes the importance of understanding the different components of dance music and developing a unique sound through experimentation and creativity, while also providing practical guidance on the technical aspects of production, arrangement, mixing, and mastering.

 

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We hope that our list of the best books for DJing and music production has been helpful to you. Remember, reading is just one of the many ways to enhance your skills and take your career to the next level. Keep practicing, experimenting, and exploring new techniques, and never stop learning. We wish you all the best on your journey to becoming a master DJ or music producer!