Basslines from Groovy to Epic w/ Saytek
Course Lessons
Course Preview
Tuning samples
Writing a bassline
Adding variations
Enhancing a bassline
Enhancing a bassline - 2
Making a groovy bassline
Live Q & A
Q & A - 1
Q & A - 2
Make Label-Ready Music
Learn Music Production Skills From The World's Best Artists.
About This Course
Learn how to make killer basslines in Ableton Live as Saytek, shows how to tune samples, convert them to MIDI arrangement and easily identify notes in a scale which can be used to create a bassline.
In this masterclass, he shows us how to add chords and automation to breathe life into the new sound. Saytek moves on from arrangement and into techniques to improve the sound of a bass, utilising methods such as sidechain compression, track layering and altering dynamics using an LFO.
This lesson is perfect for anyone wanting to learn how processing an instrument can enhance its sound. Everything used is available as Ableton Live stock plugins.
You will learn:
- How to tune samples
- How to use a piano roll to arrange samples
- An easy method for finding the notes within a scale
- How to write a bassline
- How to layer multiple basslines
- How to add variation and movement into the bass sound
- How chords can be used to compliment the bass
- Adding harmonics using distortion
- Using a low frequency oscillator to alter dynamics
- Changing circuit options within a filter to achieve contrasting sonic properties
- Using sidechain compression to create space in the mix
- How to use clip automation
- Controlling the voices, unison and glide parameters within Live’s analog synth
- Layering sub-frequencies on a bassline
- Creating space within a mix with EQ
Lessons:
1. Introduction:
Saytek reveals why less is more when creating a fat bass and how to prepare a sample for arrangement within a piano roll.
- Introduction
- The importance of a simple bass line
- Identifying the pitch of a sound
2. Writing a Bassline:
How to write a bassline. From finding which notes belong within the key of the song to the evolution of a bass sound and how it can be varied depending on intention.
- Tip for easily finding the notes in a scale
- Writing a bassline
- Creating an epic bassline
3. Adding Variation:
Once a bassline has been made, it can be manipulated to add movement and dynamics. This chapter shows how to polish the arrangement by adding chords and automation.
- Adding variation to piano roll
- Adding clip automation
- Adding chords to complement the bassline
- Adding harmonics using distortion
- Using a low frequency oscillator to alter dynamics
- Changing circuit options within a filter to achieve contrasting sonic properties
- Using sidechain compression to create space in the mix
- How to use clip automation
- Controlling the voices, unison and glide parameters within Live’s analog synth
- Layering sub-frequencies on a bassline
- Creating space within a mix with EQ
4. Enhancing a Bassline:
Saytek shows how saturation can add ‘grit’ and demonstrates how an LFO can cause a sound to evolve. This technical lesson focuses on enhancing sounds and getting them to breathe with techniques such as sidechain compression.
- Adding distortion.
- Using LFOs to add movement
- Changing the circuit option within an auto filter
- Applying compression to your basses
- Using sidechain compression
- Adding movement with clip automation
5. Enhancing a Bassline 2:
Ableton Live’s analog synth is explored as using parameters such as glide and unison give the bass complex sonic qualities and ensure the bass fits seamlessly with the track. Saytek shows how to remove rumble and layer the bass to fill out the low end.
- Recap of second bassline from part 1
- Using unison to add chorusing
- Improving cohesion with voices and legato
- Layering sub frequencies with bassline
- Adding harmonics to sub-bass
- Attenuating unnecessary frequencies
- Blending in elements of a track
6. Making a Groovy Bassline:
Moving forward from making epic basslines, Saytek shows how he adapts his method to make a funkier sound that pumps bass on the offbeat.
- Preparing a MIDI track for easy composition
- Writing a groovy bassline
7. Live Q&A Part 1:
- If you’ve got two basslines, is it not more difficult to mix down your low end with your kick?
- Would you sidechain?
- How easy is it to use Operator to design your bassline if you’re trying to achieve a 106.
- When layering basslines, would you group them and EQ it as a group, or EQ them separately?
8. Live Q&A Part 2:
Saytek answers questions on the usage of compressors and mixdown tips in this Q&A
- On the glue compressor you’re using (or any compressor) what is the makeup doing? Does it make it louder?
- Does layering a bass by duplicating a track use less CPU power than using an instrument rack?
- What’s the best way of getting my bass to boom on cheap speakers? I’ve tried layering them.
- Any tips for getting out of a rut when writing basslines?
- I thought it was important (when mixing down) to listen on sh•t speakers?
- Sometimes I use one long note that’s sidechained to make my bassline, is that too extreme?
- I’ve been recommended to produce in mono. Do you think that helps out?
- What are triplets?
- Some frequencies in my bass are higher. Which frequencies should I put in mono?

Meet Your Teacher
Saytek
Saytek (aka Joseph Keevill) has gathered some serious momentum over the last few years, becoming one of the electronic music scene’s most in-demand live acts. With global recognition for his live modular shows and releases on Carl Cox and Christopher Coe’s Awesome Soundwave label.
Saytek has garnered acclaim the world over with his improvised live shows that see him using a myriad of kit including analog synths, sequencers and drum machines alongside cutting edge digital technology to perform a unique blend of deep & hypnotic techno, acid and house that is forward-thinking yet not forgetting influences from Detroit or the UK's and Europe's fiercely inventive 90's electronic movement.
Discussions
Dream of finally finishing that draft or launching that side-hustle? Make your next creative project your best yet, with simple steps from creative superstar Emma Gannon!
Discussions
Dream of finally finishing that draft or launching that side-hustle? Make your next creative project your best yet, with simple steps from creative superstar Emma Gannon!
About This Class
Dream of finally finishing that draft or launching that side-hustle? Make your next creative project your best yet, with simple steps from creative superstar Emma Gannon!
In this new class, Emma shares the framework that allowed her to overcome self-doubt and carve her own path as an author, broadcaster, and podcast host. The secret to her success? Fed up with feeling afraid—of failure, of not being good enough, even of success—Emma dug into the science behind self-sabotage and learned exactly how to get out of her own way.
Now, Emma is sharing what she’s learned so that you can do the same: unlock your creative potential while feeling energized and empowered!
Together with Emma, you will:
- Identify the patterns in your life, and let go of habits that don’t serve you
- Cut out comparison to figure out what you really want and need
- Silence your inner critic by talking back to negative beliefs and behaviors
- Own your success and vulnerability—both go hand-in-hand with creativity
Packed with insights and examples from Emma’s personal journey, this class is designed for every creative who needs a pep-talk or extra push to get started—and includes five exclusive downloadable worksheets to support you along the way.
Whether you’re looking to break through block, remove self-imposed pressure, or simply approach each new project with intention, this 45-minute class will unlock your confidence as a creative. Get started and celebrate taking the first step!
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All you need to follow along is a pen and paper. Download the worksheets to follow along with Emma’s exercises, or jot your thoughts in a notebook.
Resources
- Introduction
- Week one
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