Remix 'Somebody That I Used To Know': A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Hey guys! Ever heard that catchy tune "Somebody That I Used to Know" by Gotye featuring Kimbra? It's a classic, right? But have you ever thought about putting your own spin on it? Remixing is an awesome way to express your creativity and give a fresh vibe to an already amazing song. In this guide, we're diving deep into the world of remixing this iconic track. We'll cover everything from understanding the original song's structure and key elements to the nitty-gritty of obtaining stems, selecting the right software, experimenting with different genres, and even navigating the legal aspects. So, whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out, get ready to unleash your inner remix artist! This journey into remixing "Somebody That I Used to Know" isn't just about recreating a song; it's about understanding its essence and reimagining it through your unique artistic lens. The original track is a masterpiece of indie-pop, known for its haunting melody, intricate harmonies, and emotionally charged lyrics. Before we even think about changing things up, we need to really get what makes the song tick. This means breaking it down into its core components: the vocals, the instrumental layers, the rhythm, and the overall emotional arc. Think about what resonates with you the most. Is it Gotye's soulful voice? Kimbra's ethereal harmonies? The driving percussion? Or maybe the melancholic piano chords? Identifying these key elements will help you decide what to preserve, what to tweak, and what to completely transform in your remix. Once you have a solid grasp of the original, you can start brainstorming ideas. What genres do you love? How can you blend those genres with the existing song? Do you want to create a high-energy dance track, a chilled-out acoustic version, or something completely out of left field? The possibilities are endless! Remember, the best remixes are those that respect the original while adding something new and exciting. So, let's get started and turn "Somebody That I Used to Know" into something uniquely yours!

Understanding the Original Song

Okay, let's break down "Somebody That I Used to Know." It's not just a catchy tune; it's a masterclass in songwriting and production. The song structure is super interesting, building up gradually with layers of vocals, percussion, and synths. The use of space and silence is also key – those quiet moments really add to the emotional impact. The key elements? Definitely the dual vocals between Gotye and Kimbra, the xylophone melody, and that driving beat. These are the things that make the song instantly recognizable, and they're also the things you'll want to think about when you're remixing. Think about the emotional arc too. The song starts off almost like a conversation, then builds into a powerful, almost angry chorus, before fading back down again. That emotional journey is a big part of what makes the song so compelling. To truly understand the song, you need to listen to it a lot. Listen with headphones, listen in the car, listen while you're doing chores. Pay attention to the details: the subtle harmonies, the way the instruments interact, the way the vocals are processed. The more you immerse yourself in the original, the better equipped you'll be to create a remix that does it justice. And don't just listen passively. Try to analyze what makes each element work. Why does the xylophone melody sound so haunting? How does the percussion drive the song forward? Why are the vocals so emotionally impactful? By dissecting the song in this way, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for its brilliance and you'll also start to develop ideas for your own remix. Consider the tempo, key, and time signature of the original track. These are the fundamental building blocks of any song, and understanding them is crucial for remixing. The tempo dictates the speed of the song, the key determines the tonal center, and the time signature defines the rhythmic structure. Changing any of these elements can drastically alter the feel of the song, so it's important to make informed decisions. For example, speeding up the tempo can create a more energetic vibe, while changing the key can shift the emotional tone. Similarly, experimenting with different time signatures can add a unique rhythmic twist. Now that we've really dug into the original, we can start thinking about how to take it in new directions. What genres could you blend with the existing sound? How could you reimagine the vocal arrangements? What new instruments or sounds could you introduce? Let your imagination run wild!

Obtaining Stems

Alright, so you're ready to get your hands dirty and start remixing! The first thing you'll need? Stems. Stems are basically the individual audio tracks that make up the song – like the vocal track, the drum track, the bassline, and so on. Without stems, you're stuck working with the full mixed track, which makes it super hard to isolate and manipulate individual elements. Getting your hands on stems can be a bit tricky, but it's definitely worth the effort. Sometimes, artists or labels will release stems officially for remix competitions or promotional purposes. Keep an eye out on their websites, social media, and online music communities. These official releases are the holy grail because you know you're getting high-quality audio and you have the green light to remix the track. But what if there aren't any official stems available? Don't worry, there are still options! You can try contacting the artist or their label directly. It might seem like a long shot, but you never know – they might be willing to share the stems if they like your work or your remix idea. Be polite, professional, and explain why you're passionate about remixing their song. Another option is to explore online remix communities and forums. Sometimes, producers will share stems they've created themselves, either through unofficial extractions or by recreating the individual parts. These unofficial stems can be a great starting point, but be aware that the quality may vary. When you do get your hands on stems, make sure they're in a high-quality format like WAV or AIFF. These lossless formats will give you the best audio fidelity to work with. Avoid using compressed formats like MP3 if possible, as they can introduce artifacts and reduce the overall sound quality. Once you have your stems, take some time to listen to each one individually. This will help you understand how each element contributes to the overall song and give you ideas for how you can manipulate them in your remix. Experiment with muting, soloing, and panning different stems to hear how they interact with each other. Try adding effects like reverb, delay, and distortion to individual stems to see how they sound. The goal is to get a really deep understanding of the individual parts so you can start weaving them into your own creation. Remember, obtaining stems is a crucial step in the remixing process. It gives you the flexibility and control you need to truly transform a song and make it your own.

Selecting Your Software (DAW)

Okay, guys, now that you've got your stems, it's time to choose your weapon of choice – your Digital Audio Workstation, or DAW. Think of your DAW as your virtual studio – it's where you'll be arranging, editing, and mixing all your audio. There are tons of DAWs out there, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular options include Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, FL Studio, Pro Tools, and Cubase. The best DAW for you really depends on your personal preferences, your workflow, and your budget. Ableton Live is a favorite among electronic music producers and remixers, thanks to its intuitive interface, powerful warping capabilities, and its unique Session View, which is perfect for experimenting with loops and arrangements. Logic Pro X is another powerhouse DAW, known for its comprehensive feature set, its huge library of sounds and instruments, and its integration with Apple's ecosystem. FL Studio is a popular choice for beginners, with its user-friendly interface and its focus on pattern-based sequencing. Pro Tools is the industry standard for professional audio recording and mixing, known for its rock-solid stability and its advanced editing tools. And Cubase is a versatile DAW that's used by composers, producers, and engineers across a wide range of genres. When you're choosing a DAW, it's a good idea to try out a few different options before you commit. Most DAWs offer free trials, so you can download them and see how they feel. Consider things like the interface, the workflow, the included plugins and instruments, and the availability of tutorials and support. Think about the kind of music you want to make. Are you primarily interested in electronic music? Ableton Live or FL Studio might be a good fit. Are you more focused on recording live instruments? Pro Tools or Logic Pro X might be a better choice. Do you need a DAW that can handle both recording and electronic production? Cubase is a solid all-rounder. Once you've chosen your DAW, take some time to learn the basics. Watch tutorials, read the manual, and experiment with different features. The more comfortable you are with your DAW, the more easily you'll be able to bring your remix ideas to life. Don't be afraid to dive deep and explore all the possibilities. Your DAW is a powerful tool, and the more you master it, the more creative you can be.

Experimenting with Genres and Styles

Now for the fun part: let's talk about genres! The beauty of remixing is that you can take a song in a completely unexpected direction. "Somebody That I Used to Know" is originally an indie-pop track, but that doesn't mean you have to stick to that genre in your remix. Think about how you could transform it into a house anthem, a trap banger, a drum and bass roller, or even a chilled-out lo-fi hip-hop track. The possibilities are endless! One way to start experimenting is to try changing the tempo and the rhythm. Speeding up the track and adding a four-on-the-floor beat can instantly transform it into a dance track. Slowing it down and adding some jazzy chords and a mellow drum groove can give it a completely different vibe. Think about the key elements of the original song. How can you reimagine them in a different genre? Could you turn the xylophone melody into a synth lead? Could you chop up the vocal samples and use them to create a new rhythmic hook? Could you replace the acoustic drums with electronic drums and add some heavy bass? Don't be afraid to try crazy ideas! The best remixes are often those that push the boundaries and take risks. But remember, the goal is not just to change the genre; it's to create something that's still musically compelling. A great remix should retain the essence of the original song while adding something new and exciting. Think about how you can use the original elements to create a bridge between the familiar and the unfamiliar. For example, you could keep the vocal melody intact but surround it with a completely different instrumental arrangement. Or you could use the original chord progression as the basis for a new harmonic structure. Another way to experiment with genres is to blend them together. You could try mixing elements of different genres to create something truly unique. For example, you could combine the emotional vocals of the original with the driving energy of drum and bass or the laid-back groove of reggae. The key is to find a balance that works. You don't want to just throw genres together randomly; you want to create a cohesive sound that feels intentional and meaningful. Experiment with different sounds and textures. Try adding new instruments, samples, and effects to your remix. Think about how you can use these elements to create a specific mood or atmosphere. For example, you could use lush synthesizers and reverb to create a dreamy, ethereal vibe, or you could use distorted guitars and heavy drums to create a more aggressive, edgy sound. Remember, there are no rules when it comes to remixing. The only limit is your imagination. So, let your creativity run wild and see where it takes you!

Arranging and Structuring Your Remix

So, you've got your stems, your DAW is fired up, and you've got some genre ideas swirling around in your head. Now it's time to start arranging your remix. Arrangement is all about how you structure the song – the order of the sections, the build-ups and breakdowns, the overall flow. A good arrangement can make or break a remix, so it's worth spending some time getting it right. Start by thinking about the original song's structure. How does it build? Where are the peaks and valleys? How does it keep the listener engaged? You can use the original structure as a starting point for your remix, or you can completely reinvent it. There's no right or wrong answer – it all depends on your vision. One common remix structure is the classic intro-verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus-outro format. This is a tried-and-true structure that works well for many genres, but it's not the only option. You could try experimenting with more unconventional structures, like starting with the chorus or using a more cyclical arrangement. Think about how you want to build energy throughout the song. A good remix should have a clear sense of progression, gradually building to a climax before resolving in the outro. Use build-ups and breakdowns to create tension and release. Build-ups can be created by adding layers of instrumentation, increasing the intensity of the drums, or using risers and sweeps. Breakdowns are moments of relative quiet, where you strip away some of the elements and let the song breathe. These can be a great way to create contrast and build anticipation for the next section. Pay attention to the transitions between sections. A smooth transition can make a remix sound polished and professional, while a jarring transition can throw the listener off. Use effects like fades, filters, and delays to create seamless transitions. Consider adding new sections to the song. You could add an instrumental break, a new verse with a guest vocalist, or a completely original bridge section. This is a great way to put your own stamp on the remix and make it truly unique. Think about how you can use the original elements in new and unexpected ways. You could chop up the vocal samples and use them to create a new melody, or you could flip the chord progression and create a completely different harmonic foundation. The key is to be creative and experiment with different possibilities. Remember, the arrangement is the roadmap for your remix. It's what guides the listener through the song and keeps them engaged from start to finish. So, take your time, experiment with different ideas, and create an arrangement that does justice to your vision.

Adding Your Own Musical Elements

Alright, guys, time to really make this remix your own! This is where you bring in your unique musical flavor and add those special touches that will set your remix apart. We're talking about adding your own melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and sounds. Think about the original song. What are its strengths? What are its weaknesses? What could be improved? What could be taken in a completely new direction? Use these questions as a starting point for your creative explorations. Maybe you love the vocal melody but you think the instrumentation is a bit bland. You could try adding some new chord progressions, synth pads, or atmospheric textures to create a richer sonic landscape. Or maybe you think the rhythm is a bit predictable. You could try adding some syncopation, polyrhythms, or unexpected drum fills to spice things up. One of the most effective ways to add your own musical elements is to write a new melody. This could be a completely original melody that complements the vocal melody, or it could be a variation on the original melody that you've tweaked and transformed. Think about the mood and the emotion you want to convey. A soaring, uplifting melody can create a sense of euphoria, while a dark, brooding melody can add a touch of mystery and intrigue. Experiment with different instruments and sounds. Try using a combination of synthesizers, guitars, pianos, and orchestral instruments to create a unique sonic palette. Don't be afraid to layer different sounds together to create rich, complex textures. Think about how you can use effects to shape your sounds. Reverb, delay, chorus, and distortion can all be used to add depth, space, and character to your remix. Experiment with different combinations of effects to create interesting sonic textures. Don't forget about the rhythm! The rhythm is the backbone of any song, and it's a crucial element in a remix. Try experimenting with different drum patterns, percussion instruments, and rhythmic grooves. Think about how you can use rhythm to create a sense of energy, movement, and excitement. Consider adding your own vocal harmonies. Harmonies can add depth and richness to the vocals, and they can also create a sense of emotional power. Try experimenting with different harmonies and vocal arrangements to see what works best. Remember, the goal is not just to add your own elements; it's to integrate them seamlessly into the existing song. Your additions should complement the original elements and enhance the overall listening experience. So, be creative, experiment with different ideas, and have fun!

Mixing and Mastering

Okay, guys, you've got your remix arranged, your musical elements added, and it's sounding pretty awesome. Now it's time to polish it up and make it shine! That's where mixing and mastering come in. Mixing is the process of blending all the individual tracks in your remix together into a cohesive whole. It's about getting the levels right, balancing the frequencies, adding effects, and creating a clear and impactful soundstage. Mastering is the final step in the process, where you optimize the overall loudness, clarity, and sonic quality of the track for distribution. Think of mixing as sculpting your remix and mastering as putting the final coat of polish on it. A good mix can make a huge difference in how your remix sounds. A well-mixed track will sound clear, balanced, and punchy, with all the elements sitting nicely together. A poorly mixed track, on the other hand, can sound muddy, cluttered, and weak. Start by focusing on the levels. Get the overall volume of each track in the right ballpark. Make sure the vocals are clear and present, the drums are punchy and driving, and the bass is solid and defined. Use EQ to shape the frequencies of each track. EQ can be used to boost the frequencies you want to emphasize and cut the frequencies you want to minimize. This can help you create a clearer and more balanced mix. Use compression to control the dynamics of each track. Compression can be used to make a track sound louder, punchier, and more consistent. It can also be used to tame overly dynamic elements and prevent them from sticking out in the mix. Add effects to create depth, space, and character. Reverb, delay, chorus, and distortion can all be used to add interest and excitement to your remix. But be careful not to overdo it! Too much reverb can make a track sound washed out, and too much distortion can make it sound harsh. Use panning to create a wider stereo image. Panning can be used to place individual tracks in different parts of the stereo field, creating a sense of space and separation. Mastering is a more technical process than mixing, and it's often best left to a professional mastering engineer. But if you want to try mastering your own remixes, there are a few things you can do. Use a limiter to maximize the loudness of the track. A limiter is a type of compressor that prevents the signal from exceeding a certain level. This can help you make your remix sound as loud as possible without clipping or distorting. Use EQ to make subtle adjustments to the overall tone of the track. You might want to boost the highs to make the track sound brighter or boost the lows to make it sound more full. Use a stereo imager to widen or narrow the stereo image. This can help you create a more immersive listening experience. Remember, mixing and mastering are crucial steps in the remixing process. They're what transform a good remix into a great one. So, take your time, be patient, and don't be afraid to experiment. The more you practice, the better you'll get!

Legal Considerations and Copyright

Okay, guys, let's talk about the not-so-glamorous but super important side of remixing: legal stuff. Copyright is a big deal in the music industry, and it's crucial to understand the rules before you start sharing your remix with the world. "Somebody That I Used to Know," like any other commercially released song, is protected by copyright. This means that the original artist, Gotye, and his label have exclusive rights to the song, including the right to reproduce it, distribute it, and create derivative works (like remixes). So, what does this mean for you as a remixer? Well, technically, you need permission from the copyright holders to legally release your remix. This is usually done through a process called licensing. There are different types of licenses you might need, depending on how you plan to use your remix. If you want to sell your remix commercially, you'll need a mechanical license and a master use license. These licenses give you the right to reproduce the song and distribute it to the public. Getting these licenses can be a bit complicated, and it often involves paying royalties to the copyright holders. If you're just making a remix for fun or to share with a small group of friends, you might be able to get away with fair use. Fair use is a legal doctrine that allows you to use copyrighted material in certain circumstances, such as for criticism, commentary, parody, or education. However, fair use is a gray area, and it's not always clear whether your remix qualifies. If you're planning to upload your remix to online platforms like YouTube or SoundCloud, you'll need to be aware of their copyright policies. These platforms have systems in place to detect copyrighted material, and they may take down your remix if it infringes on someone else's copyright. Many artists and labels are open to remixes, especially if they're done respectfully and creatively. In fact, some artists even release stems specifically for remixers to use. But it's always best to err on the side of caution and get permission before you release your remix. Contacting the artist or their label directly is often the best way to go. Explain your remix idea, share your work, and see if they're willing to grant you a license. Remember, respecting copyright is not just about avoiding legal trouble; it's also about respecting the artists who created the original song. They put their heart and soul into their music, and they deserve to be compensated for their work. So, be responsible, be respectful, and make sure you're playing by the rules.

Sharing Your Remix and Getting Feedback

Awesome! You've poured your heart and soul into this remix, and now it's time to share it with the world! But before you just blast it out everywhere, let's talk about some smart ways to get your music heard and get some valuable feedback. First off, choose your platforms wisely. SoundCloud is a classic for remixers – it's got a huge community of music lovers and fellow producers. YouTube is great for visuals, so if you've got a video or even just a cool static image, it's a good option. Mixcloud is another solid choice, especially because it's known for being really copyright-friendly, which is a plus. When you upload your remix, make sure your title is clear and informative. Something like "Gotye - Somebody That I Used to Know (Your Name Remix)" is perfect. Use relevant tags to help people find your track, like the original artist's name, the song title, your genre, and the word "remix." Write a description that tells people a bit about your remix and your creative process. You can also include links to your social media and other music. Now, let's talk about getting feedback. This is super important for growing as a producer! Don't just wait for people to stumble upon your track – actively seek out feedback. Share your remix in online music production communities and forums. There are tons of these online, and they're full of experienced producers who can give you valuable insights. Be specific about what kind of feedback you're looking for. Are you worried about the mix? The arrangement? The overall vibe? The more specific you are, the more helpful the feedback will be. Be open to criticism. It can be tough to hear negative feedback, but it's essential for improvement. Try to listen objectively to what people are saying and see if there's any truth to it. Don't take it personally – everyone's a work in progress! Share your remix with friends and family, but be aware that they might not be the most objective listeners. They love you, so they might be inclined to tell you it's great even if it's not perfect. Try to ask them specific questions to get more useful feedback. For example, you could ask, "Does the build-up feel effective?" or "Does the bass sound too loud?" Consider entering remix competitions. These can be a great way to get your music heard by a wider audience and get feedback from industry professionals. Plus, you might even win some cool prizes! And finally, don't be afraid to reach out to other producers and ask for feedback directly. Building relationships with other musicians is a great way to learn and grow. Remember, sharing your remix is just the first step. Getting feedback and using it to improve your craft is what will really help you become a better producer. So, put your music out there, be open to criticism, and keep learning!

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the awesome world of remixing "Somebody That I Used to Know." We've covered everything from understanding the original track and getting your hands on stems to choosing your DAW, experimenting with genres, arranging your remix, adding your own musical elements, mixing and mastering, navigating the legal side, and sharing your creation with the world. Remixing is an incredible way to flex your creative muscles, learn new production techniques, and put your own unique spin on a song you love. It's a journey of discovery, experimentation, and self-expression. Don't be afraid to push boundaries, try new things, and make mistakes. That's how you grow as an artist! Remember, the best remixes are those that are both respectful of the original and boldly original in their own right. They retain the essence of the song while taking it in a fresh and exciting direction. So, go forth and remix with passion, creativity, and respect! "Somebody That I Used to Know" is a fantastic canvas for your artistic vision, and I can't wait to hear what you come up with. Keep experimenting, keep learning, and keep creating! The world needs your music.