It’s hard being a do-it-yourself recording artist. Actually, it’s really hard, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
There are a lot of different things you have to be good at, and it takes a lot time, practice and talent.
If you’re a songwriter/artist, like I am, who just wants to write music and record it, you might start realizing how hard it is to make your home recordings sound good.
If you’re like me, you’ve probably recorded a song and thought, “Wow, this sounds like *insert expletive here*!
Personally, I like to blame my recording gear instead of blaming my “talents” or lack there of.
I spend hours pining away, thinking that if I only had a lot of expensive high end recording gear, my songs would be better. Yeah right!
You know what they say, you can’t polish a turd.
In my quest to have a “great” home recording setup, I’ve forgotten a few very important things like practicing songwriting, musicianship, and recording techniques.
*Side Note: Actually, it appears you can polish a turd, proved by a TV show called Mythbusters, but in the end, all your left with is a shiny piece of crap.
Humbling Videos
Yesterday, I got a email newsletter from Propellerhead with videos showcasing their software – Reason and Record.
While I think they are both nice programs, I don’t own either of them.
Though, the videos of the people using Record and Reason have humbled me. Check them out!
I don’t know if I really need to say anything.
I’m blown away by what they are able to accomplish with the minimal gear they’re using, and the environment they are recording in.
Not only am I humbled, but I’m also inspired and came away with some fresh ideas.
Here is another video featuring Printz Board (The Black Eyed Peas) using Reason – also impressive.
Please don’t think that I’m shilling for Propellerhead software, because I’m not. I don’t own any of their products. But, as you can see, they are very capable of making great music in the right hands.
All in all, I think I learned some good lessons after watching these videos.
They really reminded me to work hard with what I have, and practice more on the things that need improving – mainly my songwriting overall musicianship.
Also, if you have time, check out Luxury Wafers to watch more videos from the people behind the Record 1.5 videos – it’s good stuff!
