A clean studio is a clear mind

My uncle has a sign hanging in his shop that reads, “Everything has a place – everything in its place.” It’s a simple concept to have your studio in a ready-to-go state, which can free you from obstacles when you start recording. Here are a few things I recommend:

• Instruments ready to play: Guitars strung with (relatively) new strings.
• Equipment in working order: If something isn’t working, remove it and fix it.
• Clean surfaces: Keep your workspace clutter-free and clean. Fun Tip: I like to keep an old paintbrush handy for brushing away dust.

Have a goal

Don’t expect to finish an entire piece of music in one sitting, Superman. Set realistic, attainable goals for each session. Break down the process into manageable chunks:

• Arrangements: Plan the arrangement beforehand. See how the song flows. This will serve as a roadmap.
• Instrumentation: Determine the instruments you’ll use. Save time with templates and experiment with different instruments for each part.
• Tracking & Overdubs: If you’re producing solo, you’ll miss the collaborative energy. “Jam” with yourself! As your tracks build, re-record guitars or other instruments to capture a better take or explore new ideas.
• Mixing & Mastering: Dedicate specific time for mixing and mastering, just as you would if you were hiring professionals. These are distinct arts that require a different mindset – stepping back from the “musical” perspective and listening critically.

Step away from the music

Regularly step away from your work to rest your ears and mind. Set a timer for every hour or two. Take a walk, get some fresh air, or simply find a quiet place. These breaks can spark fresh perspectives, just like those “aha!” moments in the shower.

Put your music away for a day (or more)

Create distance between yourself and your music by putting it away for a period. You might be surprised by how your perception changes after a day or even a week. Don’t get discouraged if it sounds different than you expected. Instead, take note of how you arrived at that point.

Administration and non-musical things

Don’t overlook the administrative details, especially if you plan to use your music commercially. Keep a notebook or use an online tool to track:

• Meta information (title, tempo, time and key signatures)
• Genre & keywords
• Collaboration with and samples from other artists
• Copyright, and PRO information
• Production notes (mic usage, hardware devices and settings, etc.)