Vocal Afro House 3 – Crafting Global Toplines
For the third installment of the acclaimed Vocal Afro House series, Skye Wanda takes us inside the creative process behind crafting infectious hooks and soul-stirring toplines that define the sound of Afro House today. From capturing inspired takes in the studio to refining vocals for sample-ready clarity, her process bridges instinct, experimentation, and emotion—all while channeling the global pulse that drives the genre.
Our Interview w/ Skye Wanda
What's your typical setup for recording high-quality vocals (microphone, pre-amps, room treatment, etc.)?
My typical setup for high-quality recording is firstly a high-quality microphone (without mentioning any brands), laptop, monitors, sound card, and a good set of earphones. I also prefer a low-lit room and as few people as possible be around me.
What’s your approach to vocal production? Do you focus on getting a perfect take or prefer to experiment with different takes and comp them later?
I like experimenting because I find sometimes my original vocal approach doesn’t always work. I can sing in many different ways depending on the music I’m using so there’s so many angles and dimensions to explore.
What are some processing techniques you commonly employ when producing vocals for a sample pack? Do you have any favorite plugins or a go-to chain that serves as a starting point?
The process I commonly employ when doing a sample pack is simplicity on first drafts. When a draft is approved, then creatively I can dive deeper to give more color. I must say and I’m not even sure why but I really like using the love filter and automation.
How does the topline, adlib, or one-shot creation process for a sample pack differ from a more traditional songwriting session?
A topline, adlib or one-shot creation process for a sample pack differs to a typical writing session in that, for me, lately I’ve become used to working with one or two songwriters sharing and exploring what to put and where in the song. Doing this particular sample pack just took me back to my old ways of trusting my instincts about writing and arranging, especially the topline. I had to think outside of my South African box and apply to the creation process that the target here is the world.
What are some of your favorite vocal recordings? What vocalists, songwriters, and/or engineers inspire you?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Elderbrook lately and I really enjoy his simplicity in vocal approach, the “stadium” approach to his sound, I love that. Particularly the song “Places” with Shimza. I like Mpho.Wav as a producer and engineer.
Are there any other tips, best practices, philosophies, etc. around vocal production that you'd like to share?
My philosophy is that there’s no bad idea in music, maybe one that doesn’t fit the situation but never a bad idea :)
Whether you’re layering vocals over a deep groove or building a global club anthem, Vocal Afro House 3 gives you a palette of expressive, performance-ready vocals to shape your sound. Explore the pack and let its voices guide your next creation.