How I Became Better Than The Neptunes Without Piano Lessons | Advanced EZkeys Tips & Tricks

This video tutorial by MG The Future (MG) provides advanced tips and tricks on using Toontrack EZkeys, a virtual MIDI instrument. MG demonstrates how he uses EZkeys to create complex chord progressions and melodies, and how these techniques can be applied to various music production scenarios.

Overview

MG begins by discussing the difference between a musician and a producer. He emphasizes that while musicians often learn to play other people's music, producers need to create their own music from scratch. This is where tools like EZkeys come in handy, as they allow producers to experiment with different styles and chord progressions.

Using EZkeys

Playing Chords

EZkeys allows you to play chords on your own and see the name of the chords on the screen. MG demonstrates this by playing a few chords.

Using Add-On Packs

EZkeys comes with add-on packs that provide pre-written four-bar progressions. You can choose different versions of your song and apply different sounds and presets. MG demonstrates this by selecting an R&B pack and playing the progression.

Modifying Chords

EZkeys allows you to modify chords by clicking on the name of the chord. You can change the keys to get different chords.

Using Scaler

MG uses Scaler to record his chord progression. He then drags the recorded progression into EZkeys, which guesses the scale and transposes the chords. He then applies a different style to the progression using the browser MIDI feature in EZkeys.

Importing Your Own MIDI

You can import your own MIDI into EZkeys by adding a folder to the browser. MG demonstrates this by importing a MIDI file of a bassline he created. He then applies a different style to the bassline using the browser MIDI feature.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

1. Experiment with Different Styles: MG suggests experimenting with different styles to create unique chord progressions and melodies. He demonstrates this by applying different styles to his chord progression and bassline.
2. Use Full Blocks: EZkeys works best with full blocks. If you start using half blocks or changing chord lengths, the program might not translate the chords properly.
3. Use One Chord at a Time: If the preset styles don't map correctly to your chords, you can select one chord at a time and apply a different style to each chord.
4. Change the Tempo: Depending on your chords and tempo, you might need to change the tempo in EZkeys to get the right feel for your progression.
5. Save and Reuse Your MIDI: Once you've created a MIDI file that you like, you can save it and reuse it in future projects.

Software Mentioned

1. Toontrack EZkeys
2. Presonus Studio One V4
3. Scaler
4. Roland Cloud
5. Roland SRX Keyboards