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Songwriting
101: Recording Your Demo
So
you've worked hard to craft your songs. You’ve focused
on every line of lyric and every note of the music. You’ve
checked around to find a good recording studio.
Knowing
that recording expenses can add up, you’ve made out
a recording budget to get a clear idea of cost involved. You've
also negotiated the best possible rate from the studio owner.
Now
you’re ready to go into the studio and make a great
recording!
*
Tips For A Successful Recording Session *
Be Ready & Well-Rehearsed. To avoid frustrating
problems, make sure you and your musicians are well-rehearsed
and ready to record. The time to practice is BEFORE you enter
the studio. Walk into your recording session well-rehearsed
and ready to record. If you don't, it will likely cost you
both time and money.
Get
In Tune. This seems like a no-brainer. Yet it’s
surprising how often tuning problems arise during a session,
usually because proper tuning wasn't done beforehand. It can
be disastrous to realize one of your basic instrumental tracks
is out of tune late in the recording process. Tuning your
instruments takes a few minutes; a recording (and any pitch
flaws on it) lasts forever.
Get
Rhythm. A steady rhythm track is the heartbeat of
your recording session. Practice with a metronome (click track)
and make sure your players —especially
the drummer—can
work confidently with a click track.
Be
Early. Most studios start charging at the time agreed
upon when the session was booked. Show up on time and be ready
to start right away.
Focus
Your Efforts. Invite only those people who are vital
contributors to your recording. Don’t get distracted
by friends and family who have no role in the recording. Stay
focused on the job at hand.
Don’t
Get Caught By Surprise: Might as well expect it.
Strings will snap and parts will break, often at the worst
possible time. So bring along extra guitar strings, drum sticks
and batteries for your electronic gear. Anticipate problems.
Be prepared.
Know
When To Quit. Sometimes sessions can drift off track
and off schedule. Spending extra hours in the studio won't
necessarily lead to a better recording. If your singers an
players are tired and weary, end the session and return fresh
another time.
Great
American Song Contest
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