Struggling to work with sound engineers or producers in recording sessions?

One thing I’ve learnt not to do is underestimate the power of a reference track. Reference tracks makes it a lot easier to explain what you want without a lot of stress….because the artist is most familiar with speaking words but the sound engineer/producers speak sounds…..????????

Hi there . I’m a musician and d sound engineer . So: 1. Create a great ambience for the musicians to work. Get well acquainted with them. 2. The number one factor of any recording is the artist . So make sure that everyone is up to the task and ready to go with it . 3. Don’t wear out the artist . Be as fast and precise as you can . 4. If from the moment the band stepped in and the procedure started you haven’t pressed Rec after 2 hours , many things will go wrong.5. Feedback . Listen and respond with questions .6. If you’re a drummer , please don’t play while I’m changing mics or whatever. Be prepared for long hours .Whenever there is a break , go away from the studio! It’s VITAL 7. Always be positive and open to suggestions . Be happy !

To avoid misunderstanding, I came to realize that sound reference and music references are good tools from start to finish... As a mastering engineer, references are an absolute must. Why? Cause words don't mean the same for all. Same thing when choosing musicians or vocalists, mixers, producers, what did they do, where can I hear their work. As for the communication between artists and the more technical aspects, again, we say an image is worth a thousand words, well a sound extract and why the customer like that will prevent from falling in misunderstandings and ego trips! I will never ever work without references, goals be it for my own productions or others!

I’ve experienced studio sessions from both sides of the glass and have found that although you can mitigate against scenarios and/or situations that create confusion or disagreement, really good, honest, non-confrontational communication is key. Every session is different just as everyone involved is different. When it comes to musical expression, the communication is just as important as the final product. I’ve experienced incredibly poor communicators both as an engineer or producer and as someone being recorded. Either by undermining ideas or by bringing in negative vibes usually because of a lack of confidence or being uncomfortable. Honest, constructive and supportive language goes a long, long way.

I always tell my clients that music should always be a collaborative effort. I never try to tell an artist exactly how the session should go or how their music should sound. But I ALWAYS put in the effort to care about what they’re doing and give suggestions that I think would benefit the project. We don’t have to agree on nuances, but being open to making edits and hearing feedback is so important for musical growth. No one in the music industry got to where they are by being completely close minded with their music. At the same time, as engineers/producers, we do have to be careful how we make suggestions. These artists are putting their heart and soul on the table and we have to ensure we don’t just completely rip it to shreds.

Well, exactly in this job the skill of communication can be a game changer. When the artist is upset or comes with some kind of fears to the studio , the task of engineer is to give to the artist as more motivation and expiration as it's possible. Anothey way is to be connected well with the artist and had a great atmosphere in the studio - it's the key. Try to feel your client, what does he need and how you can help him. Try the best of you can, and you both will be glad with the final results!

The engineer is here to make your track as close as possible to your vision and ensure it meets technical standards for the outside world. Trust them for the most part, and focus on the creative side of your song. of course, this is your song, so be involved, curious about the engineer's process. This is a discussion before anything else.

The delivery you provide in recording session is completely an understanding after all the directions and discussions. Try to contribute from the soul knowing your actual role. And of course believe in yourself, the most important thing. You have been called means you have potentials to do. Please do not hesitate to play out of your comfort zone sometimes.

A big part of creating music is collaboration and knowing your strengths and weaknesses. Some artists are multi-faceted because when they were starting out they produced, wrote, engineered, and mixed their own songs. However, as you progress in music you have to realize that playing your part as a vocalist is crucial. If you know how to record, mix, and master this will help you communicate with engineers assisting you. One question you need to ask yourself is "what is my role." Once you answer that, you need to set mental boundaries on what is your responsibility and what is not, so everyone feels comfortable in the music creation process.

With all recording projects there are always lots of things to think about all at once technically. It’s also about split second decisions sometimes and things can change pretty quickly obviously depending on the final product. There are occasions when the artiste will ask an opinion rarely, and others when they require constant reassurance. That reassuring voice or answer you provide can be really tricky and problematic. If you’re the producer you have a lot more oomph when it comes to answers. Probably not so much when it comes to engineering. Be cautious with becoming involved in conversations beyond your own role, especially if it causes you to lose focus on the very role you’re there to do.

Everything is easier down the line when the sources are the best they can be. Good records come from great performances, good mixing comes from good records and great mastering comes from great mixing. So don't sacrifice on rehearsing and practice. All the mixing in the world won't fix a bad performance. It also saves you studio time and money, and is often stress reliever because you know your parts well! Your job in a recording session is to play well your parts. Trust the engineer with the mic placement, signal chain etc... Just feel the moment and be prepared

As a producer, composer and singer, let me give you a real life example. Almost everyone of us can identify a comfort range of scale. Mine is C#. So, I practice the notes of different raagas and/or the raag that I am going to sing next day. So, I try to pull as much high notes as I can than my normal range in the last night before sleeping. You can't even imagine how widen the vocal dynamics become. Suddenly it gives goosebumps, confidence to singer and joy to recordist, producers.

All sessions are different. I’ve never had a “usual” experience when involved in a session. As an artiste it is essential you know what it is you’re aiming to do or achieve at the end of the session. Unless you’re at the top of your game and highly successful gigging artiste then it’s highly likely you’re paying for the session one way or another. Time runs out quickly especially when doing multiple retakes and drop ins (which by the way are actually quite difficult to do unless you’re experienced at doing it). Also consider that this might be the only shot to get a particular take (maybe the person you’re recording with is only in town for one day). As the artiste, try and plan key points to reach every hour or so.

Preparing for a recording session as a sound producer involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful experience. Here are some tips: Clean and Organize Your Space: Before the session, tidy up your studio. Dust off equipment, clean surfaces, and create a welcoming environment. Avoid using overly-scented cleaning products, as they can distract singers. File Management: Organize your recording files in advance. Set up project folders with clear names. Technical Checks: Test headphones, microphones, and recording devices. Set initial volume levels based on the group configuration, but be prepared to adjust once clients arrive. Inspect cables, mics, and instruments for any buzzes.

I think, any artist should be always up for challenges and appreciate new techniques/methods. That's why we say, "Please leave your shoes and ego outside the studio." Definitely there should be equal space for input from both end. But sometimes believing on thyself and producer is a much needed combination. I personally prefer to work with humble artists who nurture spirituality.

Asserting your influence in the recording studio involves a combination of professionalism communication, and confidence. Here are some tips to help you make your opinion count: Know Your Material: Familiarize yourself with the project, the artists, and the music. Be Organized: Have your notes, references, and ideas ready. Show that you’re well-prepared and committed. Be Clear and Concise: When expressing your opinion, avoid ambiguity. Clearly articulate your thoughts. Active Listening: Understand others’ perspectives. Acknowledge their ideas before presenting your own. Body Language: Maintain eye contact, stand tall, and use open gestures. Tone and Volume: Speak assertively but respectfully. Avoid shouting or dominating the conversation.

I think the most golden rule is don’t be too precious about things. If you’ve recorded something and it just doesn’t sound very good don’t become too deflated. Try something else instead. I honestly couldn’t put a figure on the number of times I’ve tried something, it sounds really bad, I try something else and end up loving the outcome more than I could of hoped or imagined. Also, I regularly do stuff by mistake! Recorded an extra bar by mistake? It actually sounds better with it left in! And vice versa. Things sounding way too much or overblown? Just drop a load of tracks and see what it sounds like without that extra guitar line! And don’t be afraid to try out really whacky suggestions.

Resolving conflicts during a recording session is essential for maintaining a productive and positive atmosphere. Here are some strategies you can use: Effective Communication: Encourage open dialogue among team members. Ensure everyone feels heard and understood. Address conflicts promptly rather than letting them escalate. Identify the Cause: Understand the root of the conflict. Is it related to creative differences, technical issues, or personal dynamics? Sometimes conflicts arise due to power imbalances or rigid hierarchies Create a Safe Space: Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their concerns. Avoid blame and focus on finding solutions.