As a music producer, engineer, or artist, you want to keep your sound fresh and relevant. But how do you stay current with the latest trends in studio recording genres? Here are some tips to help you explore new styles, techniques, and tools for your music projects.
The first and most obvious way to stay current is to listen to new music regularly. You can use streaming platforms, playlists, blogs, podcasts, radio, or social media to discover new artists, genres, and subgenres. Pay attention to the production elements, such as the instruments, sounds, effects, arrangements, vocals, and mixing. Try to identify what makes each genre unique and appealing, and how it differs from other genres.
To stay updated with the latest trends in studio recording genres, it's crucial to invest in continuous education. Taking courses and participating in workshops provide advanced technical knowledge and insights into new technologies and methods. Additionally, following the charts of the most played songs on Spotify and YouTube helps to understand which genres and styles are popular, allowing you to adapt your productions to the current preferences of the audience. This approach not only enriches your repertoire as a producer but also ensures that your music has greater relevance and potential for success in today's competitive market.
Another way to stay current is to learn from other producers who are working in different genres. You can watch interviews, tutorials, documentaries, behind-the-scenes videos, or online courses to get insights into their creative process, techniques, and gear. You can also follow them on social media, blogs, or newsletters to get updates on their latest projects, tips, and trends. You can also network with other producers in your area or online, and exchange feedback, ideas, and collaborations.
In my experience I've found Youtube and content created by high-level artists to be one of my biggest friends. I always try to make time every day to build out my skillset and keep up with the current trends in music production. I've also taken a large amount of time this past year networking with talented and forward-thinking artists that are always ready to learn new things and push the boundaries of their own sound. Studio sessions (Virtual and In Person), get-togethers/networking events, and even just sending music via chats and exchanging feedback definitely helps loads when you want to stay up-to-date.
A third way to stay current is to experiment with new tools that can expand your sonic palette and workflow. You can try new software, plugins, hardware, instruments, samples, loops, or presets that can help you create, edit, or enhance your sounds. You can also use online tools, such as genre analyzers, beat makers, or AI generators, to get inspiration or guidance for your projects. You can also challenge yourself to use different tools for different genres, and see how they affect your sound and style.
Experimenting with new tools is vital to stand out in music production. This practice allows the discovery of new sounds and techniques, keeping your creations fresh and innovative. Familiarizing yourself with the latest technologies opens the door to unlimited creative possibilities, ensuring your music remains relevant. Moreover, experimentation aids in developing a unique style, differentiating your work in today's saturated market. Therefore, dedicating time to explore new tools and resources is an investment in your artistic growth and career.
A fourth way to stay current is to analyze the market and see what genres are popular, emerging, or fading. You can use data, such as charts, sales, streams, downloads, or reviews, to measure the demand and reception of different genres. You can also use tools, such as Google Trends, YouTube Trends, or Spotify Trends, to see what genres are trending or gaining momentum. You can also research the target audience, demographics, preferences, and behaviors of different genres, and see how they influence your music decisions.
A fifth way to stay current is to be creative and original with your music. While it is important to learn from and adapt to the trends, you also want to express your own vision and voice. You can mix and match different genres, elements, and influences to create your own hybrid or subgenre. You can also experiment with new or unconventional sounds, techniques, or formats to create something fresh and innovative. You can also use your music to reflect your personality, values, or messages, and connect with your listeners.
A sixth and final way to stay current is to keep learning and improving your skills and knowledge. You can read books, articles, magazines, or blogs about music production, history, theory, or culture. You can also take courses, workshops, webinars, or masterclasses to learn new skills, techniques, or concepts. You can also practice, practice, practice, and refine your craft and style. You can also seek feedback, criticism, or mentorship from other professionals, peers, or fans, and learn from your mistakes and successes.
I've challenged myself this year to open up Ableton every day and just write or design something. It's a really big hurdle some days but even if it's for 15 minutes just putting something down or exploring a technique or topic I'm not familiar with helps a lot. I can always come back to these projects and ideas later on and work on them more.
We have to keep upgrading our equipment as much as possible. Some of us are able to buy new stuff. Some of us will have to subscribe to online companies. Whatever means to update must be explored to keep up with the ever changing recording landscape.