What is harmonic mixing (mixing in key)?
How many times haven't you mixed tracks that are perfectly synchronized, but still there is something not quite right. You then probably heard a disharmonic mix. To begin with harmonic mixing seems to be complicated and not very useful. But when you first get the hang of it, there is no way back. Listening to harmonic mixes is a delight for your ears.
Mixing in key does not necessarily mean mixing songs in the exact same key, but rather using harmonic compatibility and music theory such as transposition to create an dynamic, musical and smooth transition. DJ Prince (Vikram Rai)
Out of tune
Imagine a band playing together, and the singer sings out of tune, sounds awful, right. The same thing with mixing. But then you say:" I don’t have the use for harmonic mixing because I always mix in the drumbreak". Mixing only in drumbreaks can be very boring and predictable, it is the safe and easy way, but if you are a DJ who likes to put some excitement into the mixing; harmonic mixing is the professional way to go.
Doing it live
Using harmonic mixing in a live situation can be tricky, if you pre-program your set it is no problem. Having a pre-programmed set is the same as putting on a mix cd, not recommended. Camelots easymix system, translating each key to a given code(keycode) is the way to go. Read more about it at their website www.harmonic-mixing.com.
A true professional DJ read the crowd and plays dynamically. Most professional DJ`s have a “feel” for tunes that fit harmonically without knowing it. This guide is made to help all DJ`s mix in harmony, no more guess work. If you do your homework and learn the art of harmonic mixing you will stand stronger as a DJ and also as a remixer and producer.
Remember this guide is primary aimed at DJ`s that know beatmixing and have a "ear" for music.
Examples of harmonic mixing
Stevie Wonder - Superstitious vs Pink Floyd - Another brick in the wall (Mashup by DJ Prince)
Mixing classical music harmonically
