Diss tracks are an easy way to stand out when you release a new song. Everyone loves a little drama.
Whether you're doing it for fun or you really want to let off some steam, make sure you aren't coming to the table with a weak diss track. Nothing is worse than a diss track that disappoints the listeners.
People expect diss tracks to get them revved up and excited about the music industry in general. But unfortunately, a lot of diss tracks are weak. You need to keep in mind a few things when you make your diss track.
The first step you need to take is studying your opponent in depth.
Pick out their flaws and weaknesses. See what their haters are saying about them. Find some details on them that most people won't even know about because a diss track listener loves getting some tea.
Take the Drake diss from Pusha T, for example. It was a low blow, but no one knew he was hiding a whole kid. That's some delicious tea that listeners gulped right on up!
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If your beat is wack, the listeners may automatically call your whole diss wack. People are picky these days. You need to find a beat that has some insane confidence energy.
Getting on a slow beat that's hot still won't do much for the energy of your song. A beat that's too poppy won't seem like it fits the song topic. You need to find a beat that has aggression in it. The beat will push you to go even harder.
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Depending on the story behind the beef, you need to decide what approach you will take with the song.
Are you going to make subliminal jabs? Are you going to make the diss very obvious? Do you want to throw in disses to multiple artists? Are you looking to come for the entire music industry in general?
Figure out the approach you want to take and make it obvious to the listener. The wiser you are with the approach, the more people will respect it.
This may be the most important part of the process. Take your time when it comes to crafting the bars for your track.
Listeners are VERY critical when it comes to diss track bars. You don't want to put your time and energy into a song that people won't really feel when it comes to lyrical content.
The actual dissing doesn't necessarily need to be hard, but the wordplay must really wow the listener, or it won't even be worth it.
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While diss tracks often involve serious confrontations, adding wit and humor can set your track apart. Clever wordplay, witty metaphors, and even a touch of humor can make your diss more engaging for listeners.
This approach adds a layer of entertainment and charisma to your track, making it more likely to resonate with a broader audience.
The best diss tracks are aggressive but still cocky, often including bragging and talking up the successes of the disser vs. the dissee (yes, I know, those aren't really words).
If you're extra aggressive, you may come off as too emotionally invested, which doesn't really look good.
Vary your delivery style throughout the diss track to keep it dynamic. Experiment with different vocal tones, speeds, and intensities to prevent monotony. This can also tie into the humor and wit of the song.
Versatility in your delivery not only showcases your vocal range but also keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. A well-paced and varied diss track is more likely to hold the attention of your audience.
The best type of diss track is the one that will get constant spins from DJs in the club and on the radio.
A lot of diss tracks are made solely to diss, and the artist didn't even think about the option of making it just a good song in general. This diss goes viral for a bit but then dies out, and no one cares to add it to their playlists.
A good diss track is a hit that will be on repeat for people who don't even know who the diss is for, but they just know the song bangs.
You want to make a song so good that it'll be playing in a spot where the target of the diss would just be minding their business and be forced to hear, just because it's that popular.
In conclusion, diss tracks are a great way to make a name for yourself in the music industry, but only if you do it right. You need to study your target, choose a killer beat, decide on your approach, craft killer lyrics, and make sure the song is fire for mass consumption.
The best diss tracks are not just about dissing someone; they are also great songs that people love to listen to. If you can make a diss track that people enjoy and want to listen to over and over again, then you've truly succeeded.
But remember, diss tracks are not for everyone. Some people prefer to focus on making great music without any drama, and that's okay too. It's important to stay true to yourself and create music that you're passionate about.
Don't forget to get an audio engineer for the mixing and mastering of your track so that it can sound as polished as possible after your record it.
In the end, whether you're making a diss track or not, the most important thing is to stay true to your artistry and create music that speaks to you and your audience.
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As a session singer, writer, and producer that has worked with over 300 clients to provide high-quality jingles, singles, and features, Yona spends her time creating and marketing new music and helpful resources for creators. Check out Yona’s latest releases on her Spotify, her Youtube and share if you like it!
If you are in need of singer, songwriter or song producer services, see what Yona Marie can offer you on her services page.
