It’s not that scary

There is always a time and place when it comes to going into the studio to record a project. Obviously, when a group of artists or a band are writing and/or performing music together, it usually becomes apparent when they’re “ready” to go into the studio. Arrangements have to be agreed upon, performances need to be solid, lyrics should be worked out…there’s certainly a lot of factors. Okay, so after all this has been worked out and the material has been performed live on numerous occasions, you would think that over time and feedback from their audience, it would become pretty evident when it’s time to start laying down some tracks. Right? Well, I used to think the answer was pretty clear.

Don’t worry, it happens to everyone…

I recently ran into a vocal group that has been performing together for several years. They are consistently touring and have even won several competitions in vocal performance. When I asked them for a copy of their latest CD, I was stunned to find out out that they didn’t have one. When I inquired why not, their response was: “Oh, we’re not ready to go into the studio yet”. Through deeper inquiry, I learned that their paradigm on this subject was rooted from constantly comparing themselves to other groups that had been around longer, had recorded several CDs, and won far more awards. Hmmm…

Just get started

I refuse to believe that anyone can continue to grow as an artist by basing their professional decisions solely on the actions of others. If you are a touring group, at any level, and people are showing up to your shows (let along buying tickets), every show that you don’t have a CD or other merchandise to sale, you’re not only losing money, but missing out on the opportunity for that CD to be played for other potential fans, hence increasing your following in that region. If John Mayer never recorded his first demo because he was intimidated by one of James Taylor’s records, he wouldn’t be where he was today. Studios are abundent and more affordable than ever, and there are plenty of talented engineers that will be more than happy to go out of their way to to make you feel comfortable in the studio. Be smart, shop around, and give it a shot. If you don’t feel 100% confident what you end up with, play it for some fans or some other people that aren’t professionals in the music business and see what they think. Not only will you learn alot, but I think you’ll be surprised with what you come up with. All it takes is a little confidence.