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Whether you listen to hip-hop or club music, you've heard DJ Mustard's beats. He is responsible for hits from artists like Tyga, YG, and Big Sean. It's also catchy, easy to listen to and guaranteed to get the people moving. The best part? You, too, can learn how to make beats like DJ Mustard — even if you're just getting started. We spelled it out in this message, breaking it down for you below, step by step.
Understand the "Mustard" Sound
DJ Mustard's beats are stripped down and bouncy. He uses:
● A basic drum fill (especially the ubiquitous "ratchet" clap)
● 808 bass that hits hard
● High-pitched synths or piano chords
Catchy, repetitive melodies
His beats tend to clock in around 100 BPM (beats per minute), which is ideal for clubs and dancing. So, while you're making beats, remember: Simple groovy.
Use the Right BPM (Tempo)
Set your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) tempo to 100 BPM. Most of DJ Mustard's hits — "Rack City," "My Hitta," for example — are in this tempo. It gives it that bouncy, West Coast feel."
It won't follow his vibe if your beat is too slow or fast. So be sure the pace is correct before you start.
Start with Clean Drums
Drums are the heart of DJ Mustard's sound. Here's what you need:
● Snappy claps (or snares) on beats 2 and 4.
● There's a straightforward kick pattern — nothing too complex
● Throw some hi-hats with some swing on there or some rolls, yannow?
With drums, you don't need a ton of different sounds — just a few clean, crisp sounds and some bounce.
Add a Bouncy Bassline
Now we can introduce the 808 bass. DJ Mustard is an aficionado of heavy, low-end bass that hits your chest.
● Bring up an 808 bass plugin or sample
● Stay in your drum beat
● Also, play the notes — don't overuse them
Sometimes it takes just one or two notes to get that Mustard groove.
Keep the Melody Simple
DJ Mustard doesn't overcomplicate things. He often uses:
● Bright plucky synths
● Light piano chords
● A short 4-note melody
Your tune will need to be catchy and straightforward to recall. Play it as a loop and think about some variations for the verse, perhaps you'd like to change it just a bit in the hook. Less is more here.
Use a Signature Tag
You may have heard his signature tag line: "Mustard on the beat, ho!" It's a part of his brand. If you are making beats, you should also insert your producer tag. It helps make your work stand out as professional, and Mustard's certainly is.
Structure Like a Hit Song
The vast majority of DJ Mustard's beats have a similar kind of shape:
● Intro (4-8 bars)
● Verse (16 bars)
● Chorus/Hook (8 bars)
● Repeat
Maintain a consistent structure. This enables artists to sing or rap on your beat with ease
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Use the Right Sounds
You don't need expensive gear. Several free or budget sound kits offer DJ Mustard-style samples. Look for:
● West Coast drum kits
● 808 bass packs
● Trap synths or loops
You can get many assets online or use stock sounds from your DAW (FL Studio, Logic, Ableton, etc.)
Final Thoughts
DJ Mustard's production sound is about simplicity, bounce, and catchiness. You don't have to be a music genius to make something like it. Begin small (hear his songs for inspiration) and practice making beats that make people wanna get down.
Whether you're just having fun or are seriously into becoming a producer, DJ Mustard's style is an excellent starting point. So open up your DAW and get cracking on those bouncy, upfront beats!
