Tom Caruana may not be a name that instantly springs to mind when you think of the dopest Hip-Hop producers out there—unless, of course, you’re already in the know! Hailing from the UK, former teacher turned full-time beatmaker Tom Caruana is very much the real deal. He has worked with a wide range of artists including Masta Ace, Large Professor, Guilty Simpson as well as produced multiple critically acclaimed remix projects.

Now, for the first time, his entire beat catalogue is available for everyone to grab, thanks to RouteNote Create.

Artist profile

Tom Caruana is a UK-based hip-hop producer known for his skilful blend of classic and contemporary sounds. Drawing inspiration from obscure jazz, soul, and funk, his production style is known to feature expertly executed samples as well as totally original compositions. And sometimes a hybrid combo of both.

Caruana’s work is notable for his collaborations with prominent UK and US underground artists and is considered by many as one of the most talented UK Hip-Hop producers working today. He gained significant attention for his various remix projects including his “Tom Caruana Presents… Enter the Magical Mystery Chambers, a project which fused Wu-Tang hits with classic Beatles samples.

Tom was also the production mastermind behind the live hip hop outfit Son of Sam. Their 2017 release Cinder Hill featured a roll call of top underground MCs. the following track featuring Masta Ace and Large Professor is taken from this project.

Original Dusty Material

What sets Tom Caruana’s production apart is his remarkable ability to recreate the sounds of yesterday and weave them seamlessly into his beats.

Hip-hop has always been rooted in the art of sampling, with producers digging through dusty records to find hidden gems. Over time, the methods of flipping these samples have become more sophisticated, but the challenge of working with uncleared samples remains a constant issue—one that can risk derailing a release entirely.

Caruana’s genius lies in his ability to capture the feel and vibe of these vintage sounds without relying on samples. As a talented multi-instrumentalist, Tom crafts his beats by playing a wide array of instruments, including live drums, percussion, bass, guitar, keys, and even brass and strings. The result is an authentic blend of old-school flavor with a modern edge, all while avoiding the legal pitfalls that come with traditional sampling.

One listen to Tom’s beats and it’s clear to hear the funk is strong in this musical mastermind.

A Beat for every Occasion

With over 160 beats available on RouteNote Create, Tom Caruana’s catalogue is packed with inspiration for your next project.

While his roots lie in the world of boom-bap, underground hip hop, the range of styles and flavors in his beat selection goes far beyond that. From dub-infused reggae anthems to bouncy, Timbaland-esque 90s R&B grooves, smooth neo-soul vibes to New Orleans-inspired funk, there’s something for every taste.

If you’re on the hunt for fresh, cutting-edge production that breaks away from the usual formula, Tom’s offerings are sure to spark your creativity.

To showcase the diversity of his work, here are our top 3 Tom Caruana picks.

1: Beat King – 102 BPM

Live phatback drums combine with heavy brass stabs and funky flute features to create a beat to move your bones. This hard funk roller makes the perfect music bed for rap or sung vocals with attitude.

2: Circulation – 124 BPM

If hard and heavy synth-driven beats with a bounce are on your wants list then this killer delivers in spades. With its Timbaland double-time bounce this beat is sure to get your track the required attention. Theres even a remix version available.

3: Narrow Street – 84 BPM

One for the Boom-Bap Hip-Hop heads this underground dose of drama makes the perfect backdrop to some street-level rap lyrics. Brooding strings swell with menace as a heavy dilla-inspired Bassline rumbles underneath.

Explore Tom’s beats and discover other top-tier producers on RouteNote Create. Plus, all our beats come with a simple blanket non-exclusive licence, so you get the best quality files and keep 100% of your royalties—no strings attached!