Singer-songwriter Ari Hest is a self-made success story. Even while under contract to a major label, he decided to break loose so he could record and release new music directly to fans on his own terms. The result was “52″, a collection of 52 individual songs written, recorded and released one at a time every [...]
MIDI and Songwriting: How it Works, What You Need To Know
| February 2, 2009 | 7 COMMENTS
Today’s computer recording technology provides songwriters with the tools necessary to achieve beautifully textured arrangements. One major tool in the songwriter-producer’s arsenal is MIDI. While it provides loads of instrumentation options and editing capabilities, MIDI can also be a perfectionist’s nightmare, causing endless tweaking and draining the creative process.
In part one of this two-part series on MIDI and Songwriting, I’ll cover the basics of MIDI, how it works, and what you need to know. I’ll also show you how to set up for MIDI recording using Reason and Pro Tools.
Tape Op, The Greatest Music Recording Magazine Ever
| January 30, 2009 | 4 COMMENTS
Today I’d like to recommend my all-time favorite magazine for music recording and production. The magazine is Tape Op. The info-packed pages are invaluable. The price for subscription is free. They’re not paying me to write this review. I truly love this magazine and I’ve been a hooked reader for years.
What to Do Before You Record Your Song Demo
| January 19, 2009 | ADD COMMENTS
As a result of recording and producing literally hundreds of demos, I’ve learned that it is always better to “Prepare and Prevent” than to “Repair and Repent.” Here are a few steps you can take to help make your demo recording experience more successful. In this post we will discuss song preparation, rough recordings, session musicians, and getting the most out of your demo production process.
