Download a digital audio recording program. While professional programs like Cubase, Logic and Pro Tools boast advanced editing and mixing features, you do not need to shell out hundreds of dollars on software. You can download an open-source program with all of the features you will need, completely free of charge.
Decide how you want to record your beats. In order to develop beats, you have two basic options. You can record the music from scratch, using keyboards or other musical equipment, or you can layer pre-recorded audio loops, available for free on the Internet. Each option has pros and cons. Recording your own music allows you to control every facet of your sound, but lacks the benefit of professional production. Audio loops, by contrast, have a polished and professional sound, but limit your ability to customize.
Open your recording software and connect any recording equipment. If you want to record your own beat from scratch, connect a MIDI keyboard, synthesizer, drum machine or other device that you have available. To establish a flawless connection with your computer, you will need to connect an audio interface to your USB port. An audio interface is an external sound card, containing microphone and instrument jacks, and is available at music supply stores.
Create a track for each layer of music that you want to record. A track is a recording space, usually appearing as a horizontal bar across your software window. For example, you might place your percussion on one track, your bass on another track and a melody line on a third track. Locate the "New Track" option on your software. For example, programs like GarageBand and Logic require you to click "Track" on your menu bar and select "New Track" from the drop down list. Cubase and Audacity both require you to click the "Project" menu and select "Add Track" (or "New Audio Track," in the case of Audacity).
Click the "Record" button and record a layer of music onto each track. If using audio loops, just drag a different loop file onto each track. For example, you might use a bass loop and an electronic drum loop to create a classic urban sound, or add additional layers for melody and sound effects. For rap music, use plenty of bass and percussion and be creative when adding additional layers.
Record your vocals onto a separate track. You can rap about anything that inspires you: your passions, your frustrations, issues like social justice and equality. You can even rap about just having a good time. For optimum recording quality, connect a microphone to your computer through your audio interface, or using an XLR-to-USB converter cable. You can record your rap through your computer's internal microphone, but your audio quality will sound amateur.