#dj psyched

[wknc881]

Songwriting Tips

  I really love Linkedin Learning, and a little while ago I took one of the courses named ‘20 Unofficial Rules of Songwriting’ (because my songwriting can always use some serious work). And I thought the course was pretty useful, so I figured I’d share some of the best tips I’ve learned (from videos like this and from personal experience), because songwriting is great and I think anyone interested should give it a try.

  Don’t overthink it - This was my biggest problem when I started. I would contemplate every word I wrote and it took forever, it always led to me never finishing any songs. Yikes. But one day I just sat there and started singing and just let it be what it was, and I wrote the first song I ever finished. It wasn’t any kind of masterpiece but it made me realize that I was being way to uptight and it was ruining my creativity, so I think relaxing is a good way to combat that. To quote Rick and Morty ‘Good music comes from those who are relaxed, just hit a button’.

Improvise - I recently made a friend who wanted to start songwriting together and when we got together I realized we had totally different ways of doing this. I usually come up with an idea and then start building slowly. He just straight up starts hitting keys and improving until it feels right. And while I’m sure both ways have their place I also think improv is also just another form of being relaxed and letting it happen, so you might accidentally end up making something amazing. Who knows?

Listen more - My music teachers are avid that listening to a lot of music and analyzing what they do will help give you ideas. I have to admit they’re kind of right. Just listening to more music will help give you ideas and inspire your own work, and it’s just fun.

Think about talking to someone - This is the only technical advice I have (but if you are interested in more stuff like this I’ll link that course below) but writing as if you’re talking to someone is a real crowd hitter. It makes the music feel a bit more personal and natural and usually makes for good hooks.

  Do you have any songwriting tips I could use? (anything would be appreciated)

- DJ Psyched

[wknc881]

Music Theory?

  Subjectively speaking, you definitely don’t need music theory to make music. There are a lot of people choose not to learn it because they say they either find it limiting or just tedious. But, it can also be super helpful, especially when you’re starting out or want to do something new and original. I recently read a really interesting reddit post about this ‘debate’ that made me want to learn more about both sides. I’ve been working on music with some friends and, since I only know a little bit about theory and production, it’s been on my mind. Do I need it more?

I’ve been studying music for almost two years now through the music minor program and before I started my music classes I knew absolutely nothing about music theory, but I have been playing guitar for about six years now. I really didn’t understand what it was before or what I would do with it. Then I wanted to start making my own music, so I was excited to start music theory because I was told it would really help me. I’ve only taken Piano, Music Theory 1, and joined the schools Music Theory Club at this point so I’m no expert but I definitely am starting to understand where both sides of the argument comes from.

I have written little pieces before (it’s not a musical genius by any means) but I was able to make something coherent ‘by ear’ as many people say. And I should also mention that there are so many programs these days that are made to help people who don’t understand theory too well or don’t care for it (free loop samples, chord packs, etc.). I personally feel like it’s really up to you and what you want out of your music if theory will matter much to you. If you’re simply doing it for fun or because it’s a good stress reliever, or an outlet for you, etc. then there’s really no right or wrong way to make music. I mean there isn’t either way BUT I do understand the side of the argument that says learning theory, or at least understanding some basic parts of it, will really help out a musician trying to do something new or unique. Having an understanding of how things work in music can help you do more complex things and evoke the emotions/ styles you’re going for. I’ve noticed that the more I learn the more I can break things down and come up with a more complex understanding that I can bring into my music making. It’s hard to put but as one of the Reddit commenters put it ‘if you learn theory you are more likely to do things you wouldn’t otherwise have done’.

Theory isn’t the easiest thing to understand but if you are interested in seeing what it can do for you, there are lots of videos online that can help and there is also a music theory club on campus. But again it’s totally up to you how you feel about this, you can definitely get into music without it. And you definitely don’t have to be an expert to try anything you want in music. So my question for you is, do you think music theory is fundamental for making music?

- DJ Psyched

[wknc881]

My time at WKNC

  If anyone ever asks me what my favorite part of going to NC State was, the answer is my time at WKNC. I’m here to share the highlights of my time at WKNC. All the opportunities I was given, the skills I gained, and the unforgettable moments along the way. 

  I became a DJ at WKNC during the Summer of 2018. Near the end of my training course the GM told us that the position for Social Media director was open. We were told we could apply before we were DJs, and as an eager bean who really wanted to work for the station, I applied shortly before finishing the training. That’s how I became the Social Media Director and a new DJ at the same time.

  I had that position for the remainder of the summer and the following semester, and picked up my first DJ shift that Fall. At the time my show didn’t have a title, but on September 1, 2018 from 2pm-4pm 2k Indie went live for the first time. The show might not have had a name, but I was already DJ Psyched at this time. I remember asking family, friends, making polls on social media, and even using random name generators when I was looking for my DJ name. In the end I went with ‘Psyched’ because I am a psychology major and I couldn’t think of anything else. At this point the idea of the ‘Get Psyched’ image did not exist at all. I had no plans to turn the name into a whole persona, but it worked out amazingly (so I’m glad I didn’t go with ‘DJ Snuggles’).

    The first semester was amazing. I was getting the hang of running my show, meeting other DJs, and learning to manage the station’s social media platforms. I also started to get some cool opportunities like getting paid to DJ live near Carter Finley before a football game with Laura (our current GM). I jumped on every opportunity I could. I went to just about every volunteer activity, every concert on the lawn, and any concerts I could get a DJ pass to. 

    I did this for the rest of my time at WKNC, doing as much as possible and having the best moments of my college life. Some of the things I got to do include DJing for: pack disco, the target run, the honors village silent disco, and hopscotch. I also got to go to a bunch of neat events including: the Radio Disco Prom, Double Barrel Benefit, and two DJ and staff social events. I also attended some more unforgettable concerts, thanks to WKNC, and saw artists that include: Flo Rida, TLC, Nelly, Omni, Soccer Mommy, Joy Again, 311, and Dirty Heads (just to name a few).

    In my last year I was also given the opportunity to be Daytime Music Director and create content as a blogger and pod-caster. This is when things went from amazing to dream-like, I hardly have words for how much this last year has meant to me. 

  The ‘Get Psyched’ image was born alongside my podcast. I found my mission and had the best time meeting up with different artists, fellow creators, and friends to talk about things we were passionate about. I found a passion in getting psyched about reading, health, DIY work, and music: and it motivated me to create a YouTube channel. ‘Get Psyched’ isn’t just a slogan or job to me, it’s my passion and it has made me more determined than ever to always stay psyched about the things I love.

  It’s hard to imagine my time at WKNC coming to an end now that I’ve finished school, but I will cherish these memories and moments for the rest of my life. The ‘Get Psyched’ mission doesn’t end here, and I’m grateful for all the ways WKNC has shaped me as a creator and person. 

  Until Next Time

Always stay psyched,

DJ Psyched

[wknc881]

Becoming a WKNC DJ

  Before I took the WKNC DJ training course I was a little nervous about the term ‘DJ’. I didn’t know much about being a DJ and I was pretty new to the local music scene, I wondered if I was ready to take on DJ training. I’m writing this for anyone who might be wondering the same thing, or is just curious about what the WKNC training course is all about.

Two and a half years ago I took my shot and went to the station to see what it was like, and if I was a good fit for me. As soon as I walked in I knew I had found something special on campus. Everyone was really cool and chill, the vibe was positive and relaxing, and when I asked if there was anything I could do to get involved I was given some options about how I could connect and work with the station.

  I was given the opportunity to review music for the station. I went in about once a week to pick up a new album and give back the ones I had reviewed. A few months later I started the DJ training course in the summer. 

  I went to the interest meeting (flyer above, link below) and realized that it wasn’t as nerve wrecking as it seemed. I learned that just about anyone with a love for music, video, audio, and writing could find a place at WKNC. If you vibe with the station, agree with the mission, and are inclusive and friendly yourself, WKNC could be for you. We do our work professionally, but it’s certainly not a scary place. The training course is there to teach future DJs how we operate and give insight into what being apart of WKNC is like. 

  My advice, if you are interested, is to go to the meeting and learn about all the different ways you can get connected. If you go to the interest meeting you can learn more about what the station does and see if it’s right for you.

  My time at WKNC was my favorite part of my college experience, and I know it will be special for many future DJs too.

  Until next time

Let’s Stay Psyched,

DJ Psyched

Interest Meeting Details 

[wknc881]

Let’s Talk Music: Summer Jams

  I honestly don’t know how the seasons work outside of the context of school, but given the second summer session at NC State is about to come to an end I thought I’d share some of my favorite tunes from this summer. Thanks to WKNC, and my Daytime Music Director position, my listening has diversified a lot lately, so here are some songs I found very enjoyable over the last two months. I hope you enjoy the variety of this playlist:

  Zeros by Declan McKenna - Declan has been releasing tracks over the last few months for the record ‘Zeros’ that will be released August 21st. The original release had to be pushed back, given current events in the world, but I couldn’t be more excited that it’ll be out just next month.’ The Key to Life on Earth’ is my favorite track of the three singles so far, do you have a favorite?

  Dance Alone by Blanks - This track feels like summer with it’s up beat rhythm and catchy chorus, it just makes me want to dance alone. Blanks has also had a few releases this summer, but if you need a quick pick-me-up I recommend starting with this track.

  I Wish I Missed My Ex by Mahalia - This song is a vibe with it’s R&B and Soul sound, and it’s also incredibly catchy. The lyrics are funny and it’s easy to get into.

  Social Drinker by Ballyhoo! - This is an incredibly relatable track I’ve mentioned on the blog before. It’s also really catchy with it’s surfer rock vibes and the hook is hard not to sing along to.

  Eat Your Heart by Steam Powered Giraffe - I have not heard from this group in years and I was extremely excited when I heard this one, it’s an extremely catchy and beautifully dark track. It’s a love song for people who don’t like typical love songs. This band always stands out for their steam punk influence and it makes this song perfect for anyone who likes the style.

  Easy by Justin Starling - This track is lyrically empowering and the beat paired with Justin’s raping is easy to get into. The chorus is also nearly impossible not to sing along to, a characteristic of any good summer tune.

  Sick of Feeling Useless by Neon Dreams - I’ve talked about this track a lot on the blog but that’s just because I love it a lot. It also happens to have the perfect summer vibe, so it fits this list perfectly.

  Was It Something I Said MyKey ft. Cavetown - This song is a bit less like the rest on the list. It has an interesting ‘old school’ sound, but it’s still extremely catchy. The lyrics are a bit ‘darker’ then the music lets on. It’s a really easy track to sing along to without realizing what you’re saying, and McKey and Cavetown vocals sound amazing together. 

  House by Baba Ali - This is another one I’ve mentioned on the blog before, so all I’ll say this time is it hasn’t gotten old and the genre bending sound makes it a stand out on any playlist.

  If you are looking for some softer sounding tracks this summer I recommend Nothing by Bruno Major and Black Dog by Alo Parks.

  What were your favorite jams of the summer?

  Until next time

Let’s Stay Psyched About Music

DJ Psyched

[wknc881]

How to make a podcast

  Let’s Get Psyched about creating a podcast. Making podcasts is rewarding and, thankfully, pretty simple too. If you don’t have everything you need at the start I think it would still be worth it to try and make do with whatever you do have and advance what you have as you go. This way by the time you have your ~preferred~ setup your podcast has matured to the point you want it at.

  Step 1: The idea & purpose

If you’re planning to start a podcast you may already have your idea going, but either way it’s worth it to do an ‘purpose’ that you write down or say aloud. This can simply be a written statement you put in the description, on your social media, or even just in your personal writing spaces. This could also be a short first episode setting the premise of what you are doing, which is what I like to do when I start a new project.

  This can help both you and your potential audience have an idea of where the podcast is going and why you are doing it. Knowing why you are doing something will help keep the work cohesive, and it’s good for brainstorming. If you ever feel stuck you can go back to this mission statement and remind yourself what you’re in it for. And if you ever feel like you don’t connect with the purpose anymore you can go back and change it. This just gives an easy and trackable way to see how you feel about your content and evaluate what you’ve been doing!

  Step 2: Make a sample episode

The best way to learn anything is to try it. Just sitting down and making your first episode will teach you a lot. Do you like free flowing? Does it help to have notes written up? Do you sound natural? Are your ideas coming across the way you hoped? It has always been difficult for me to listen back to old material and watch old videos, but it’s the most helpful thing you can do for yourself. 

  I’ve found that scripting does not work well for me at all. I sound very unnatural if I plan my thoughts too much and it’s slightly less exciting to record that way. However, not scripting at all doesn’t work for me either. I like to have bullet points, highlights, something to guide me if I get lost in thought, but I like to keep them brief so I can be more engaged in thought while recording. They really just serve to give an episode direction and cohesiveness, but most of what I say is freehanded and I find that has served my purposes best. But there is no one way to do it and you may find something else works way better for you. The best way to figure it out is to try and learn along the way.

  Step 3: Equipment

You know it makes sense this would come before 2… but anyhow the equipment needed for a podcast is simply a microphone (depending on the type you may need an interface), something to record into (laptop, computer, tablet, maybe even phone), a pair of headphones, and software for editing.

  There are so many ways to do a podcast and setups can go from ‘simple and affordable’ to ‘complex and studio grade’. I use an Audiotechnica AT2020 microphone, I got it used for $50 and I got my interface (Scarlet red solo) for $70 open box. I used to use audition to edit podcasts, but since I no longer have access to that I use Audacity and reaper for recording and editing. Audacity is a free software so it’s an ideal choice for anyone starting and not looking for something too complex that is also affordable. Reaper is also pretty affordable, a license can be obtained for as little as $60 depending on the use of the software. Lastly, I use a pair of Audiotechnica M50X headphones. They’re studio quality and not too expensive at around $100, but there are definitely cheaper alternatives if you aren’t looking to spend that much. I believe the M20Xs are much cheaper and still a good choice.

  Step 4: Putting your stuff out there

Publishing a podcast is also a pretty varying part. This really depends on the purpose of your podcast and who you want it to reach and how much you’re willing to pay. Publishing a podcast can be free if you use something like youtube (there are also other options), but again this is something you’ll have to do further research into because popular streaming services like Spotify and Apple music require payment for publishing. If you’re just starting publishing somewhere like youtube is a great place to start. You can gain an audience while you work on your direction and content. I posted my first episode on a free wix website before I started the ‘Get Psyched’ Podcast through WKNC and it helped me learn a lot about how I wanted to make my podcast before it went on a bigger platform.

  I hope this information is useful to anyone looking to start their own podcasts. The best piece of advice I have is to just have fun with it~ Making podcasts has become one of my favorite things and further developing my podcasts mission and topics has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve enjoyed having guests on my podcasts a lot, starting to turn my podcasts into videos, and using the podcast as a way to educate myself more. There’s so much that came out of podcast making I didn’t expect, so good luck on your podcast creating journeys~

  Until next time,

Let’s Stay Psyched about Podcasts,

DJ Psyched

[wknc881]

‘To Live Woke’ by Dr. Nacoste

  Dr. Rupert Nacoste, the Social Psychologist who created the concept of ‘Neo-diversity’ and teaches the one-of-a-kind ‘Psychology of Interdependence and Race’ course at NC State University, brings us his fourth novel ‘To Live Woke’. In this novel, much like his teachings, he shares stories of his past experiences to aid in his teaching. Having grown up in the Jim Crow legally segregated south, and serving in the Navy during a time that involved Race Riots, he uses stories from his past to give the reader a taste of his perspective. He uses this new understanding to demonstrate why people must learn to not simply ‘tolerate diversity’ but to fully respect and embrace neo-diversity. Dr. Nacoste says ‘We can save the soul of America’ and he uses this book as a way to show us how we can contribute to this effort and actually understand what it means to ‘live woke’, not just by saying we are woke, but by ‘knowing how to act on this awareness’.

  Neo-diversity is ‘that interpersonal situation in which we all have to encounter and sometimes interact with people from different groups by way of race yes, but also sexual orientation, religion, bodily-condition, sex-of-person, mental-health condition, gender-identity, age and on and on.’ (Nacoste 2017). 

  Dr. Nacoste uses Social Psychological principles and real life stories to make the lessons he shares resonate with the reader. He shares his nine tips to ‘help you live woke’ which include; ‘never trying to interact with a person as a representation of a group’, ‘ask open-ended questions’ (‘not stereotype based questions’), and ‘when the person you are interacting with uses the language of bigotry, do not be silent: speak into the moment: do not argue, yet speak into the moment and object.’ 

  Dr. Nacoste introduces a wide variety of topics that demonstrate how this new ‘neo-diversity situation’ impacts our social lives in every way. These everyday encounters of neo-diversity can often cause people ‘neo-diversity anxiety’. This book teaches the readers how to handle those anxieties and keep it from causing us to ‘crash’ in our interpersonal situations.

  An important point Dr. Nacoste makes sure we understand is that ‘prejudice isn’t bigotry isn’t racism’. He explains the importance of understanding this because, as he put it, ‘Something old and anti-american needs to be addressed and changed: leftover demeaning language of hate about (neo-diverse groups), and leftover anti-group prejudice and bigotry (that is) aimed at America’s neo-diversity’

  ‘What are you prepared to do?’ Dr. Nacoste asks.

He gives us everyday interpersonal-strategies we can use to combat these acts of bigotry. ‘Let the person know your standards for continuing to interact with you’ when someone uses bigotry in front of you ‘Speak into the moment using your inside voice to say ‘I’m sorry, I would prefer not to hear that kind of (neo-diversity) slur/stereotype. It hurts me.’’ This method has been proven effective.

  There is far more important, and incredibly useful, information in this book than I could possibly fit in a blog post. You can find a link to the book below to learn more about how ‘To Live Woke’. 

  My advice when you read is to take it nice and slow. Read each chapter and give time for the material to set in before continuing. These are concepts and lessons I have been learning for over two years, since I first took a course with Dr. Nacoste, and I still find them powerful and impactful each time I hear them. I think it is important to stop and reflect on how these concepts relate to your life. Allow them to resonate and make sure they stick. 

  Until next time

Let’s stay psyched about social psychology,

DJ Psyched

  ‘To Live Woke’ Hardback

Paperback

Dr. Nacoste Psychology Today

[wknc881]

Música de Indie

  As I said before, a part of the reason I started doing Musica de Indie was to get closer to the Spanish language since I’m trying to learn right now. So I just wanted to give another little tip that I found useful, find artists you like and follow them online. The more you read, write, and listen to the language the easier it gets~ And the music is amazing, so it’s a win win. This week on Música de Indie we’re talking about…

  Yemayá by Mexican Institute Of Sound - This track has more of an ‘indie electronic’ vibe to it. There are more layers of background instruments including more electric guitars and synths. The vocals blend amazing with the music. This track became an instant favorite of mine. The hook ‘Ye-ma-yá carino’ really highlights the extremely catchy track and makes it irresistible.

Volcanes by Pilar Cabrera, Ceci Juno, Juliana Velasquez- Juliana and Ceci work the vocals on this track. The track uses volcanoes as a metaphor for understanding the strength of humans and our vulnerability. We learn to take breathes even through the ashes, but sometimes we explode. This track is a very slow and soothing one, with an acoustic guitar taking lead. The swap of vocals between the two women adds a ‘back and forth’ dialogue sound. The singing is carefully paced, and when it picks up in the chorus it’s hard not to sing along.

Entre Mis Venas by Ceci Juno - The title translates to ‘Between my veins’, and in the track the artist talks about ‘carrying songs for every flag’ and keeping ‘postcards for each moment’. The artist brings up themes of embracing her culture and that of others. She also talks about being a ‘non-conforming’ artist, and expresses her thoughts that not everyone has the same luck in life. She is one of the singers from the above track and her work is just as amazing as that collaborative piece.

  Thanks for tuning in to Música de Indie today, what are your favorite songs from the last two weeks?

  Until next time

Let’s Stay Psyched,

DJ Psyched