Music is an ever-evolving art form. There are numerous ways to remake and rework an existing song. Some of the most common techniques include remastering, remixing, reimagining, sampling, and interpolation.

These valuable techniques play vital roles in enhancing a song, empowering artists to express themselves in unique ways, experimenting with diverse styles, redefining the soundscape of, and popularizing African music. This way the music is introduced to new audiences and presented in new contexts to existing listeners.

What are these techniques and what do they mean?

Remastering involves taking the original source audio and subjecting it to various auditory processes to update the recording for modern consumption. The objective of this technique is to enhance the audio quality of a classic recording to meet modern standards. This process improves the sound quality of previously released tracks by eliminating unwanted noises and optimizing or compressing the dynamic range. Remastering can also provide new clarity and higher resolution for the tracks, making them sound clearer and richer. This can be particularly beneficial for older African tracks. A very good example is “Joromi” by Sir Victor Uwaifo.

On the other hand, remixing is the most common technique for reworking existing songs. It involves taking a recorded or already-released song and creating an alternative version by altering its elements. This creative process often involves collaborations and experimentation. It can include changing the tempo, adding or removing instruments or vocals, incorporating new sounds or beats, and rearranging the song structure. Remixes can extend the lifespan of a song, keeping it relevant and introducing it to new audiences in a different version. The original version of trending dance song “Tshwala Bam” by South African music artist and songwriter, TiToM and Yuppe and then, the remixed version featuring Burna Boy. Another more recent example is “Joromi” by Sir Victor Uwaifo, featuring Mya Blue, first AI-powered virtual artist, created by Nigerian producer Nkasiobi Chukwu aka Eclipse Nkasi.

Reimagining, also known as reimagination, refers to a new interpretation of an existing song. In this process, the original composition is significantly altered, with clear changes made to the arrangement, instrumentation, genre, or style. It involves a more artistic and creative approach to remaking a song. From another perspective, reimagination in music production is a marketing term, to draw attention to the original track and artist while simultaneously highlighting the contribution of the new artists in the reimagined version. A good example of a reimagined version of Styl-plus’ Olufunmi by ID Cabasa featuring Fireboy DML, Odumodublvck, BOJ, and Joeboy.

Another music technique is sampling. Sampling is taking a portion of another song and using it in a new song. This could be a short snippet or a longer loop, then, modified in various ways - chopped up or processed to make it less obvious. It is advisable to obtain permission from the record label and a copyright license from the owner of the composition. Listen to “Never Told” by Sizz The Truth as he sampled Alhaji K. Frimpong’s Kyenkyen Bi Adi Mawu.

And the last but not the least, is interpolation. This music-altering technique is the opposite of sampling. It involves recreating a recording note for note, or using a melody from a previously recorded song but re-recording the melody instead of directly sampling it. A good example is Ayra Starr’s interpolation of “You Bad” by Wande Coal on Jazzy’s song is a great example of interpolation.

Generally, asides from improving the listening experience, each technique offers a unique way to enjoy an existing song while adding a personal touch for modern audiences. Whether it’s a subtle remaster or a remix, these techniques showcase the versatility and creativity of music as an art form. These production techniques also help to preserve and promote African music in its special way, ensuring that it continues to evolve and reach new audiences globally and also provide opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

The blog post on African Music Library on Remastering, Remixing, Reimagination, Sampling, Interpolation: What’s the difference?

Remastering, Remixing, Reimagining, Sampling, Interpolation: Any Difference?

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