The moment you knew music was your calling
The pivotal performances that convinced two renowned artists to build their lives around music are not what you might expect. Read the post.
Author: Michael Gallant
Mirror, mirror: How watching yourself perform can elevate your music
Watching yourself in a mirror while you perform or practice can help you elevate your music and performance, so find opportunities to gaze while you play and learn from what you see. Read the post.
Songwriting and writer’s block: 11 tips to help the songwriter get unstuck
What do you do when you hit a wall when you’re writing a song? Here are tips from experienced songwriters to help you overcome writer’s block. Read the post.
Choosing the right microphone to elevate your productions
Mic selection can help shape the color, mood, and impact of your next song. Here’s advice on how to choose microphones that best fit your music. Read the post.
Avoid overproducing your music
If you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to go overboard editing, processing, and tweaking your recordings-in-progress. Here’s some advice on how to make your productions sound their best — and knowing when to stop. Read the post.
Producing a new track? Don’t take a day off.
When producing a new track, try working on it — even for a very short time — every single day until it’s done. Read the post.
What’s the best key for your song?
There are a lot of factors that play into choosing the right arrangement for a song — but choosing the best key for you and the musicians might be the most important. Read the post.
How to produce a vocal session (when you’re also the singer)
Singing and producing at the same time creates a unique set of challenges. It can also offer freedom and a work-flow that’s all yours. Read the post.
How to produce with soft synths
Software synthesizers can open up huge musical possibilities when you’re producing music. Here’s how to get started. Read the post.
Musical improvisation: how to make music in the moment
Becoming fluent with musical improvisation is an attainable goal. Here are some tips to help you grow in that direction and to make your own music improv shine. Read the post.
How to alter pre-made loops to get a customized sound
Pre-made loops are great tools for creative inspiration while you’re recording. A few simple techniques can help make them sound less like stock sounds and more like you. Read the post.
When the bassline makes the song
There are lots of examples where the bassline is the prominent part of the song. This driving blues track from Gov’t Mule rages atop a super-dense bassline that propels the song. Read the post.
Dave Smith: The Godfather of MIDI
Music technologist, inventor, and synthesizer creator Dave Smith died on May 31, 2022. His innovations will continue to shape music for years to come. Read the post.
Be ready when musical inspiration strikes
Remove all barriers between you and playing/recording your instrument so you can be ready the moment musical inspiration strikes. Read the post.
Find new ways to stretch your musical limits and develop a creative routine
Choosing to turn your creativity into a regular routine can help you stretch your limits, sharpen your skills, and open the door for new career opportunities. Read the post.