I mix my own beats.

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
1

<p>So I've been reading threads about submitting music supplements and how I shouldn't consider doing it unless it's studio ready and whatnot. Well, I spend a lot of time in downtown Chicago with my cousin who's big in the underground rap scene and so I've picked up turntables and messed around a lot for the last four years. It's something I love doing, and I have mixtapes and CDs all over the place of beats I've made...some that have been used in live performances by Chicago artists. Besides writing, it's probably my biggest hobby/passion though I've been kinda iffy about talking about it in my application. Do you think it's worth my time submitting some of my work? I don't know how appreciative Columbia music department would be of hiphop/beat mixing haha. I can PM you samples if you're interested, too.</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>the thing with rap is that unless you’re a fan or well-versed in it; it all sounds ridiculously similar and low-brow. Just like classical music still has this air of being complex and worldly simply by being “classical” rap is the exact opposite. </p>

<p>Unless your samples show huge, objective, creativity and variety I don’t see it as doing much for you- the adcoms won’t be experienced in this sort of music I garantee it. Sure you may gain some ‘‘diversity’’ points but other than that…Eh.</p>

<p>An alternative would be that you simply write about your passion and put a resume listing all the uses your music has had and the artists that have used it- maybe even a standard rec letter from one of them.</p>

<p>Sell them the skill, not the genre. My $0.02</p>

3

<p>If you were applying to CMU I would say go for it but to Columbia, no. </p>

<p>Just wanted to add that. I agree completely with what undisclosed said.</p>

4

<p>That’s the thing, it’s beat mixing so its just instrumentals mostly. and I use “hip/hop” very loosely. It’s more electronica, ambiance, indie-like music. I say rap because rap artists have purchased my beats and asked to use them for their rhymes. If I do go ahead and submit stuff I’d be including a resume with references and such. Do you still think its a lost cause?
Thanks!</p>

5

<p>It’s not a lost cause! Write about it! A lot of CU admissions officers are younger people and in NY it’s hard not to be exposed to all different types of music. PM me some samples too.</p>

<p>Also, you should come so that I can rap over your beats.</p>

6

<p>PM me some. My friends all mess around with beats so I’ll tell you how yours compares</p>