Rich Keller Mixing Hip Hop Vocals TUTORIAL

When it comes to mixing Hip Hop, vocals can be some of the most fun elements to work with. Other times, they can prove difficult with a broad dynamic range, problems with the original recording, and having to fit them into a two-track instrumental when you cannot get the multitrack.

In this puremix.net exclusive, Hip Hop mixing mogul, Rich Keller, teaches you the techniques he has used on thousands of smash hit tracks on a song from Nicky G, produced by Baby Winsch.

See how Rich Keller:

Creates a harmony of the lead track to enhance the hook and add dimension

Enhances a two track beat from the producer

Breaks down his classic vocal setting for the Distressor he used on classic records from Nas, DMX, and many more

Makes the vocal shine with subtle moves on an SSL eq

Uses the dynamics section of an SSL channel strip plugin to make the vocal sit in the track, adding a glue between the vocal and the mix

Adds dynamic ambience to the vocal using Valhalla Shimmer and the Boz Imperial Delay in series

Explains his approach to the mix bus, using the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor, Fabfilter’s Saturn saturation and Pro-L2.

Teaches how to use the latest version of the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor

Uses the Fabfilter Saturn across the mix bus to add harmonic excitement and top end sheen

Dials in the Pro-L2 to control peaks

Software

Antares Auto-Tune Pro

Boz Iperial Delay

Braniworx bx_console SSL 4000 E

Elysia Nvelope

Fab Filter Pro-L2

Fab Filter Saturn

Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp

Sound Toys Little Alter Boy

UAD Distressor

Valhalla Shimmer