Mixing music is not new; however, mixing music in 60-second videos using a social media app such as TikTok is brand new. TikTok is encouraging innovation in the music industry. Whether a musician is a pro or a newbie, with the help of Samsung, TikTok users can mix their version of a song written by renowned songwriters and contribute to StemDrop, aka ‘A song for the world.’
On Oct. 26, TikTok launched StemDrop. StemDrop empowers users to collaborate with the world’s best songwriters. For example, using stems, which are individual loops and sounds, TikTok users will mix their version of “Red Lights” by Max Martin, Savan Kotecha & Ali Payami. Partnered in this project are Simon Cowell, Syco Entertainment, Universal Music Group’s Republic Records, and Tim Van Rongen. That means undiscovered musicians can get the attention of some influential entertainment professionals.
There are two ways to use StemDrop on TikTok, but those new to mixing music can try the in-app mixer to gain general knowledge. Start by opening the app and beginning a new video by pressing the ‘+’ icon. Next, click the Effects menu on the left and select the search bar. Type in ‘Samsung Galaxy StemDrop Mixer’ and enter. Select the icon to activate the in-app mixer. The screen will display a column of boxes on the left, three additional effects near the bottom, and volume control on the left. Selecting one of the boxes will play a looping stem, such as drums, singing, or other synth sounds. The circles at the bottom will have short non-looping stems that the user can incorporate, such as guitar and singing. Tap or hold down the red button to record and select the desired sounds to begin mixing. Users can even sing on top of their mix. Share it with the world when the production is finished—use #StemDrop001 for viewers to find.
StemDrop For Mixing Professionals
Samsung Galaxy’s mixer is a great educational tool for users who have never mixed a song. It shows the general task, but for professionals, the in-app mixer would not be as convenient or polished as their specialized software. Luckily, more knowledgeable users can download the stems through StemDrop’s mini-hub. Go to StemDrop’s TikTok account and tap on the link in the bio to be redirected to the StemDrop H5 page, where a download link will be available to receive the stems. Then the user can mix it with their favorite software, such as Logic or Ableton, and upload their version to TikTok after.
Several top artists on TikTok have already uploaded their take on “Red Lights.” Aiden Kroll gave the Samsung Galaxy Mixer a try while playing his guitar. The video was impressive enough to earn over three million views. Once recorded, after uploading the video, select the StemDrop banner to send and submit to the campaign. Anyone submitting an entry could potentially be kick-starting their music career. Not musically inclined? There are other ways to go TikTok viral, such as trying the ‘I Never Meant To Break Your Heart’ trend––although it might not be life-changing.
