Hello,
I visit these boards when I have the time (not as much as I'd like to), and after a typical 30-45 min. reading, I usually feel just a bit uneasy. There are a lot of "start-ups" looking around and asking for advice, trying to develop their recording techniques, and I think sometimes they're having their attention turned away from the music. To anyone with an instrument, idea, and any recording device: please don't let that happen.
It’s an easy trap, though, because it really is a lot of fun - but don’t lose perspective. In my opinion, if you’re spending more time playing with recording equipment than actually writing songs for use with that equipment, then you’re probably running in place. Of course, if recording is your only responsibility or you’ve got some songs ready to commit, then by all means focus in on the recording aspect. Otherwise, hone your craft and worry about recording when you’ve actually got something to record. Writing isn’t an inherent process (for most of us), it has to be developed, and the idea of the world missing out on some great songs because the person was busy playing with their new digital 8 track…well, it saddens the soul.
I hope no one misunderstands me because I think this truly is a fantastic site, and I’ve learned a lot from it. Everyone’s comments and suggestions are greatly appreciated. As an example though, if someone new to music chimes in requesting, perhaps, information on which recorder to purchase, suggesting anything more than a four track *could * be almost counter-productive. Unless you plan outright on recording 20 tracks, get something decent and relatively easy to use so that you can concentrate on the songs. Great equipment will not do the work for you! Remember, the best Beatles songs were done on 4 tracks. Hell, I’ve heard some incredible songs done on boom boxes. Use your imagination, it’s an artists most valuable asset.
Anyway, just wanted to add my 2 cents. Sorry for the length.
I visit these boards when I have the time (not as much as I'd like to), and after a typical 30-45 min. reading, I usually feel just a bit uneasy. There are a lot of "start-ups" looking around and asking for advice, trying to develop their recording techniques, and I think sometimes they're having their attention turned away from the music. To anyone with an instrument, idea, and any recording device: please don't let that happen.
It’s an easy trap, though, because it really is a lot of fun - but don’t lose perspective. In my opinion, if you’re spending more time playing with recording equipment than actually writing songs for use with that equipment, then you’re probably running in place. Of course, if recording is your only responsibility or you’ve got some songs ready to commit, then by all means focus in on the recording aspect. Otherwise, hone your craft and worry about recording when you’ve actually got something to record. Writing isn’t an inherent process (for most of us), it has to be developed, and the idea of the world missing out on some great songs because the person was busy playing with their new digital 8 track…well, it saddens the soul.
I hope no one misunderstands me because I think this truly is a fantastic site, and I’ve learned a lot from it. Everyone’s comments and suggestions are greatly appreciated. As an example though, if someone new to music chimes in requesting, perhaps, information on which recorder to purchase, suggesting anything more than a four track *could * be almost counter-productive. Unless you plan outright on recording 20 tracks, get something decent and relatively easy to use so that you can concentrate on the songs. Great equipment will not do the work for you! Remember, the best Beatles songs were done on 4 tracks. Hell, I’ve heard some incredible songs done on boom boxes. Use your imagination, it’s an artists most valuable asset.
Anyway, just wanted to add my 2 cents. Sorry for the length.