Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has evolved from underground raves to mainstream chart-toppers, and a significant part of this evolution can be attributed to the powerful vocals that complement the beats. Whether it’s a heart-pounding drop or a melodic chorus, vocals in EDM tracks often add the emotional depth and energy that drive the music to new heights. In this article, we’ll explore what makes for the best EDM vocals and how you can find the perfect vocal samples to elevate your tracks.
The Role of Vocals in EDM
Vocals in EDM serve multiple purposes. They can be the emotional anchor of the song, delivering the lyrical content that resonates with listeners, or they can be used as a rhythmic element, adding texture and complexity to the beat.
- Emotional Connection: A powerful vocal can create an emotional connection with the audience, making the track more relatable and memorable. Vocals often tell a story or convey a feeling, giving the instrumental elements of EDM a narrative to build around.
- Dynamic Range: Vocals can add dynamic range to a track, providing contrast between the intense drops and more subdued verses. This contrast keeps the listener engaged and makes the highs of the song feel even more impactful.
- Versatility: In EDM, vocals can be manipulated in various ways—chopped, pitched, or layered—to create unique sounds. This versatility allows producers to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional song structure.
What to Look for in EDM Vocals
- Clarity and Range: The best EDM vocals are clear and versatile, with a range that can adapt to the different phases of the track. Whether it’s a high-energy anthem or a deeper, more introspective piece, the vocal performance should be able to match the intensity of the production.
- Emotive Delivery: A vocal performance that conveys emotion—whether it’s excitement, melancholy, or euphoria—can elevate the track from good to great. Listeners should feel the emotion in the vocalist’s delivery.
- Harmonization and Layering: Quality EDM vocals often include harmonies or layered vocals that add depth to the track. This can make the chorus more powerful or create an otherworldly effect during the buildup.
- Adaptability for Effects: EDM producers often apply effects like reverb, delay, or autotune to vocals. The best vocals are those that sound great naturally but also adapt well to these effects, enhancing the overall production without losing clarity.
Top Sources for EDM Vocals
- Vocaldeals.com: For producers looking for high-quality vocal samples, Vocal Deals offers a wide range of royalty-free EDM vocals that are perfect for any track. Whether you’re looking for powerful, unique, rare and exclusive hooks, catchy choruses, or emotive verses, our library has something to match your needs. Plus you will be able to release your songs commercially without any issues with copyright.
- Splice: Splice is a popular platform among producers for sourcing royalty-free vocal samples. Their extensive library includes vocals from various genres, including EDM, with the flexibility to modify and adapt them to your tracks all though it may be difficult to find something that hasn’t been used by other producers.
- Loopmasters: Known for their premium quality, Loopmasters offers EDM vocals that are specifically tailored for different sub-genres within EDM. From deep house to trance, you can find vocals that fit your specific style. Some vocals may be royalty-free or not depending on the rights owners discretion.
How to Incorporate EDM Vocals into Your Tracks
- Match Vocals to the Energy of the Track: Start by selecting vocals that complement the overall energy of your track. If you’re producing a high-energy festival anthem, look for powerful, anthemic vocals. For more chilled-out tracks, consider vocals with a softer, more introspective delivery.
- Experiment with Effects: Use effects like pitch-shifting, reverb, and delay to transform vocals and fit them into the electronic landscape of your track. Don’t be afraid to chop up vocals and use them as rhythmic elements.
- Create Harmonies: Layering multiple vocal tracks or creating harmonies can add depth to your production. This technique is particularly effective in the build-up to the drop, creating anticipation and emotional impact.
- Focus on the Mix: Ensure that the vocals sit well in the mix. They should be clear and prominent but not overpower the instrumental elements. Use EQ to carve out space for the vocals in the mix, and apply compression to maintain consistency.
