This final lesson in the transition series focuses on scratching a phrase that ends with a quarter note before dropping the track on beat four. It also explains how beat four can be used to create a strong transition, build and release tension, and develop ideas that you can eventually make your own.
Below is the original transcript from the video.
What’s up? This is the last video of this transition series. We are still going to scratch and drop on beat four, but this time we will end the phrase with a quarter note.
This is the last video of this series, so I’m going to let you in on how I approach scratching and transitioning with beat four. Alright, let’s check out the phrase!
Rhythm 1 Phrase
Beat four is probably my favorite beat to scratch with, especially if the track starts right on beat four. That’s because I don’t need to think too much about the structure of the song ahead of time.
I know that as soon as I drop it, it’s going to flow perfectly into the track. There’s more to it, but let’s keep it moving for now. Let’s go over the transition.
Rhythm 2 Transition
I love to come in with the beat four snare because the sound can’t be missed and makes a statement. The sound of the snare grabs attention. I use the scratch phrase to build tension. Then, I use the “ahhhh, I can’t believe he just dropped that track” moment to release it.
I take advantage of beat four throughout my Back to the Basics mix. Check it out for yourself. The link is in the description. The thing is, if you hear something you like, practice it. But you want to eventually try to put your own twist on it. We study theory because it gives us the ability to do our own thing. Hope you enjoyed the series. Be creative. Peace!
FAQs
1. How is the scratch phrase structured in this lesson?
The scratch phrase ends with a quarter note and the record is dropped on beat four.
2. Why is beat four useful for scratching and transitioning into a track?
Beat four is useful for scratching and transitioning because when the track starts on beat four, dropping it there allows the scratch phrase to flow directly into the track.
3. Why study theory when developing your own scratching?
Studying theory matters because it gives you the ability to take what you learn and eventually put your own twist on it.
About the Authors
Jason E. Bullock and M. Dwayne Bullock (DjRoninTokyo) are the creators of Scratching Made Easy and the authors of Scratching Made Easy Turntable Method Book 1: A Guide to Scratching. They created a scratch notation system that uses standard musical notation to apply fundamental music concepts to scratching.
