WAM Presents: How to Produce a Hip-Hop Track at Barrack Street Jetty

Co-presented by WAM, SAE, 6KMC and Musible.

Join acclaimed hip-hop artist Kayps and award-winning songwriter and producer Calvin Bennett for an interactive workshop that breaks down writing a hip-hop track from the ground up.  

Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your songwriting, this session will explore the key elements of hip-hop composition: finding your unique voice & developing authentic lyrics, crafting memorable hooks, beat production, basslines and bringing emotion and storytelling into your music.  

As part of the workshop, Kayps and Calvin will break down selected tracks from Kayps' album BUNUBA BABY, giving participants a behind-the-scenes look at how the songs were written, developed and produced. Through these real-world examples, attendees will gain practical insight into the creative decisions that shape a finished record. 

Drawing on their combined experience in writing, recording, and performing, Kayps and Calvin will share practical techniques, creative exercises and industry insights that you can apply to your own music immediately. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable advice on developing their songwriting process. This is perfect for aspiring artists, songwriters, producers and anyone interested in the creative process behind great hip hop records. 

Calvin Bennett:

Calvin Bennett is an award-winning producer and songwriter hailing from Perth, Western Australia. With 60+ million streams between his genre-diverse credits, he is one of Australia’s most exciting emerging talents. His work has charted #1 Most Played on Triple J, landed 100+ Spotify Editorial Playlists, charted on ARIA, gained support from Rolling Stone Australia, VICE Australia and won Triple J’s Unearthed High Competition. 

Kayps: 

Born in Broome, Western Australia, Kayps is an Indigenous Walmatjarri and Bunuba hip-hop artist now based in Perth/Boorloo. After spending his early years in Fitzroy Crossing, a remote town in the Kimberley region, Kayps relocated to Perth/Boorloo to pursue greater educational opportunities. A gifted writer and producer, Kayps is known for blending melodic infectious hooks with high-speed and intricate rap flows. Drawing on a wide range of influences, his music reflects personal storytelling and deep-rooted introspection. As a proud Walmatjarri and Bunuba artist, Kayps explores identity and cultural reconnection through his music, honouring his hometown with his forthcoming album, BUNUBA BABY. 

Accessibility: Please email us hello@wam.org.au for access needs. SAE building is wheelchair accessible, workshop venue has limited wheelchair access - please contact us for details.