Tips for Starting Music Recording

Recording Software Recommendations

• Avoid Audacity: Not ideal for recording vocals due to limitations.
• Recommended Software: Use Cakewalk (easy and free).
  • A guide for downloading and using it will be provided in the comments.

Recording Techniques

• Multiple Takes: Don’t rely on one take; do hundreds of takes to compile the best shots.
• Frankenstein Technique: Combine small sections from different takes to create a cohesive vocal performance.
  • Example: Crossfade multiple vocal sections for a smoother sound.

Pitching and Tuning

• Understanding Pitching: It's common to need pitching; doesn’t indicate bad singing.
  • Use a plugin like Waves Realtime Tuner ($35) to assist with pitch correction.
• Recording Quality: If the pitch sounds robotic, consider re-recording.

Recording Environment

• Listen to the Original Track: Familiarize yourself with the song before recording with the instrumental.
• Monitor Yourself: Keep one ear out of your headphones to hear your voice clearly while recording.
• Room Acoustics Matter: Reduce room reverb by adding soft furnishings or using the blanket technique around your mic.

Harmony and Melody Techniques

• Working on Harmonies: Start with main line off, practice higher/lower notes, then add main line back.
• Terminology:
  • Overdubs: Record the main line multiple times for a fuller sound (move in stereo field).
  • Adlibs: Add separate melodies that complement the main line.
  • Harmonies: Sing notes that fit within the chord, recorded separately for depth.

Final Thoughts

• Practice and Experiment: It may be challenging at first, but persistence will yield better results.
• Ask Questions: If unsure about anything, reach out for help.

Next Steps

• A mixing guide will be provided in the future for further assistance.