Making beats using Apple Loops

Exploring Apple Loops

Even though we've looked at them already, we haven't quite deep dived into Apple Loops, and that's what we're going to do.

What Are Apple Loops?

Apple Loops are essentially a repository of loops that come with Logic Pro X when you buy it. These loops:

• Conform to the key
• Match the time signature
• Adapt to the tempo of your song

We have a variety of loops available, including:

• Different types of instruments
• A wide range of styles
• Various genres

Apple Loops can be used to:

• Spark ideas
• Beef up existing ideas

There are endless possibilities with Apple Loops!

Accessing the Apple Loops Browser

You can access the Apple Loops browser by pressing O. When you do, you will see:

• Loop Packs or Packs at the top, providing access to all available loops.

While the number of loops is vast, you can view them in two different ways:

1. Filtered View
2. Finder-like View based on genres, instruments, moods, etc.

Personally, I prefer the filtered method.

Loop Tagging and Descriptors

All Apple Loops are tagged, meaning they have specific values attached to them. For example, you might search for:

• Bass sound
• Dark quality
• Hip hop category

You can easily work with these tags and descriptors to find the loop that you want quickly.

Types of Apple Loops

As you explore the loops, you'll notice different color codes:

• Blue: Audio loops
• Green: Software instrument loops
• Yellow with a waveform: Loops from the Drummer feature
• Other Yellow: Step sequencer loops

These loops can be dragged and dropped into your project, conforming to the sound and tempo you are working with.

Usage and Rights

All loops are royalty-free, allowing you to use them on records that you are releasing commercially. One popular example is the loop titled Vintage funk03, which was used in Rihanna's song Umbrella.

Exploring Loop Packs

At the top of the Apple Loops browser, you'll find the Loot Packs section.

When you look at All Packs, you can explore everything available. For instance, if you want to check out the Disco Funk Pack:

1. Navigate to the Disco Funk Pack.
2. If you already have a drummer track, you might want a loop to complement that.

Adding a Loop

• Set the tempo to 120 BPM.
• Select a funk guitar loop by clicking on it to bring it into your project.

Variations in Loops

Often, you'll find variations of loops available:

• For instance, if you have variations like 1, 2, 3, and 4, you can easily select and use them based on the same basic pattern.

Filtering and Using Software Instrument Loops

If you'd like to filter the loops by just Software Instrument Loops:

1. Click on the filter.
2. Select Percussion to find something like a Kabasa loop.
3. Drag and drop it into your project.

Important Note

When dragging a software instrument loop onto an audio track, it creates an audio version rather than a software instrument version with MIDI information.

Working with Drummer Loops

We've already explored Drummer, and we can add a Congas loop from a drummer named Quincy:

• Add the Congas to our track to enhance the rhythm.

Adding Step Sequencer Loops

To add electronic percussion:

1. Stay in the Percussion filter.
2. Select an electronic loop.
3. Drag and drop it into your project for a new step sequencer.

Conclusion

In summary, we've covered the types of Apple Loops available and how to navigate, filter, and utilize them in your projects. Let's take a further look at how we can explore and efficiently work with Apple Loops!