TRAP INSTRUMENTS AND MUSIC PRODUCTION

Santiago Cordoba Yoval 301

Trap music is not based on traditional instruments played live, but rather on digital music production.

MAIN ELEMENTS

• 808 Bass:
  Very deep and long bass sounds that are felt more than heard. They represent power and energy.
• Programmed Hi-Hats:
  Fast rhythms with repetitions and variations that add movement and dynamism.
• Snare and Clap:
  They mark the main beats of the rhythm, usually at regular intervals.
• Synthesizers:
  Used to create dark, melancholic, or aggressive atmospheres.
• Drum Machines and DAWs:
  Software such as FL Studio or Ableton Live is used to produce tracks.
• Auto-Tune and Vocal Effects:
  Used to correct vocals and give them a melodic and futuristic style.
• Samples:
  Fragments of other songs or urban sounds (sirens, voices, sound effects).

TRAP FASHION AND AESTHETIC

Clothing is a form of expression and reflects social and cultural identity.

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

• Hooded sweatshirts (hoodies)
• Long, oversized T-shirts
• Cargo pants, joggers, or ripped jeans
• Branded sneakers (Jordan, Yeezy, Nike, Adidas)
• Large chains, watches, and rings
• Caps, bandanas, or balaclavas
• Dark sunglasses and crossbody bags

VISUAL STYLE

• Dark colors (black, gray, military green)
• Bold and eye-catching prints
• Influence of urban luxury (a mix of street style and high-end brands)

CULTURAL CONTEXT OF TRAP

• It originated in urban neighborhoods in the United States, especially in Atlanta.
• It expresses social realities such as:
  • Street life
  • Social issues
  • Ambition, success, and self-improvement
• In Latin America and Spain, trap adopted more personal, emotional, and youth-oriented themes.
• It is a form of identity and protest, especially among young people.

ATTITUDE AND MESSAGE

Trap conveys:

• Rebellion
• Authenticity
• Freedom of expression
• Social criticism or personal experiences