5 (Stupid) Tricks To Be A Better Musician

Summary

The video script discusses the challenges of being a musician in the modern era, emphasizing the need for practice, creativity, and promotion. It highlights the difficulty of balancing inspiration and creation, the importance of intentional writing, and the acceptance of commonality in ideas. The speaker shares insights on the overemphasis on methodology versus musical implementation, advocating for efficiency in production and the power of minimalism in music. The script concludes by urging musicians to focus on live performance and authenticity, rather than endless tweaking, to create meaningful music.

Takeaways

• 🎼 The music industry requires dedication, practice, writing, production, promotion, and often a side job due to the streaming economy's limited financial rewards.
• 🚀 Musicians must adapt to new trends and platforms like TikTok and YouTube to stay relevant in the industry.
• 💡 Becoming a professional musician involves a significant personal growth and learning process, including developing effective habits and learning from failures.
• 🔄 Finding inspiration in music is a delicate balance between consuming and creating; too much of one can stifle the other.
• ⏳ Limiting writing time can lead to more intentional and inspired creation, as it builds anticipation and focus for when you do sit down to work.
• 🌐 Recognizing that most creative ideas have been done before is essential; the uniqueness comes from your personal combination of existing elements.
• 🛠️ The overemphasis on methodology and process in music production can detract from the actual music creation and the importance of the musical output.
• 🎷 Practice is vital, but there comes a point of diminishing returns where more practice doesn't necessarily lead to better music-making.
• 🔧 Overproduction and endless tweaking can prevent a musician from finishing their work; deciding when to finalize a piece is crucial.
• 📈 Production quality cannot save a poor song, and great music will always outshine mediocre production.
• 🎹 Using fewer tools and techniques in production can improve songwriting by forcing reliance on the authenticity of the recorded performance.
• 👤 Embracing the imperfections of live performance adds a human element to music that is often more appealing than overly polished tracks.
• 🔄 The difference between being lazy and being efficient in music creation is nuanced, and sometimes 'lazy' methods can lead to efficient and effective results.

Q & A

What are the challenges mentioned in the script for someone trying to make a living as a musician?

The script mentions that musicians face challenges such as the need to practice, write, produce, and promote their music, often while working another job due to the low income from streaming. They also have to keep up with social media trends and possibly start a YouTube channel.

What does the script suggest about the balance between consuming and creating in music?

The script suggests that there's a delicate balance between consuming and creating in music. Too much of one can cause the other to suffer, and it's important for musicians to maintain this balance to stay inspired and productive.

How does the script describe the process of finding inspiration for music?

The script describes finding inspiration for music as not coming from staring at a computer or using the latest plugins, but rather from limiting writing time to be more intentional and inspired when creating.

What is the 'universal truth' mentioned in the script about modern music creation?

The 'universal truth' mentioned is that it's easy to spend a lot of time making music, but hard to make good music. Good ideas are inspired, and inspiration doesn't come from doing the same thing over and over.

Why does the script argue that every good idea in music has probably been done before?

The script argues that every good idea in music has probably been done before because it's a way to normalize the fact that originality is rare and that it's okay to create by combining existing elements in a new way.

What does the script say about the importance of self-confidence in an artist's choices?

The script emphasizes the importance of self-confidence in an artist's choices, stating that it's crucial for an artist to develop a sense of self-assurance in their creative decisions.

How does the script view the focus on methodology and process in music production?

The script views the focus on methodology and process in music production as overemphasized, suggesting that it can lead to a neglect of the actual music creation and result in a diminishing return on practice and learning.

What does the script suggest about the role of production in music?

The script suggests that production can't save a bad song and that great music will always outshine production quality. It argues for focusing on the foundational quality of the music rather than relentless polish.

How does the script recommend approaching the mixing process to improve songwriting?

The script recommends using old school techniques like channel strips and limiting the number of sends in a session to improve songwriting, as it forces the artist to rely on the authenticity of what was recorded rather than fixing things in post-production.

What is the script's stance on the use of human performance in music?

The script values the use of human performance in music, highlighting the distinct interest and beauty in the artifacts of human performance, such as playing an instrument live or performing beats on drum pads, over sampled or programmed versions.

What advice does the script give about the editing process in music production?

The script advises against overediting and relying too much on augmenting the process of playing something live, suggesting that sometimes the most effective way is to play it in one go and to focus on the quality of the initial performance.

What final piece of advice does the script offer to musicians?

The script advises musicians to get off YouTube and go work on their music, suggesting that even if they finish it in a 'lazy' way, at least they will have something to show for it.

Outlines

00:00

🎼 The Struggles and Habits of a Full-Time Musician

The script discusses the multifaceted challenges of being a full-time musician, including the need to practice, write, produce, promote, and even hold a job due to the streaming economy's low income potential. It emphasizes the importance of balancing consumption and creation, and the struggle to stay inspired while maintaining productivity. The speaker shares personal experiences and learned habits from other artists to become an effective 'lazy musician,' suggesting that inspiration often comes from limiting writing time to be more intentional and creative.

05:01

🔨 The Myth of Uniqueness and the Importance of Authenticity in Music Production

This paragraph addresses the myth of originality in music, acknowledging that most ideas have been done before but it's the unique combination of elements that matter. It criticizes the overemphasis on methodology and process over musical implementation. The speaker advocates for learning one's instrument and practicing, but also emphasizes the importance of letting music speak for itself without overproduction. The paragraph suggests using old school techniques and limiting production tools to enhance rather than fix the music, advocating for a foundation of good music that doesn't rely on production to be great.

10:02

🎹 Embracing Imperfection and the Value of Live Performance in Music Creation

The final paragraph focuses on the pitfalls of overproduction and the beauty of human performance artifacts in music. It discusses the unlimited do-overs in home recording technology and the risk of losing the essence of live performance. The speaker encourages musicians to play their parts in one go to improve their skills and create a more authentic sound. The paragraph concludes by drawing a line between being lazy and being efficient, urging musicians to get off YouTube and finish their music projects in a 'lazy' yet effective manner.

Keywords

💡Music Production

Music production refers to the process of creating, recording, mixing, and finishing music in a studio environment. In the video, it is discussed as a complex and multifaceted endeavor that requires not only technical skills but also creativity and the ability to balance between consuming and creating. The script mentions the need for musicians to 'practice, write, produce, and promote' their music, highlighting the comprehensive nature of music production as a key aspect of being a modern musician.

💡Streaming Economy

The streaming economy pertains to the financial model of the music industry where artists earn revenue from streaming platforms. The script criticizes the streaming economy as 'a joke' and suggests that it does not provide sufficient income for musicians, implying that artists need to explore additional revenue streams or work other jobs to sustain themselves financially.

💡TikTok Trends

TikTok Trends refer to the popular challenges, songs, or dance moves that gain significant traction on the social media platform TikTok. The video mentions the necessity for musicians to 'jump on all the latest TikTok Trends' to stay relevant and gain exposure in the digital age, indicating the influence of social media on modern music promotion and artistry.

💡YouTube Channel

A YouTube channel is a platform for creators to upload and share video content. The script suggests that starting a YouTube channel is part of the modern musician's toolkit for promotion and marketing, emphasizing the importance of leveraging various digital platforms to reach audiences and build a fanbase.

💡Inspiration

Inspiration in the context of the video is the spark or idea that motivates and fuels creative work. The speaker discusses the challenge of finding inspiration when one is constantly consuming or doing the same routine activities, suggesting that a balance between consuming and creating is crucial for generating original and inspired musical ideas.

💡Musical Intentionality

Musical intentionality refers to the deliberate and purposeful approach to creating music. The video encourages musicians to write more intentionally by limiting their time to write, which can lead to more inspired and focused creative sessions. This concept is tied to the idea that setting constraints can often lead to more effective and creative outcomes.

💡Creative Work

Creative work in the video is used to describe the process of producing original art, such as music. The script notes that every good idea in creative work has likely been done before, but it's the unique combination and personal interpretation of these ideas that make an artist's work distinct. This concept is central to the video's message about originality and the creative process.

💡Musical Implementation

Musical implementation is the practical application of ideas and techniques in the creation of music. The video emphasizes the importance of focusing on the actual making of music rather than just the theoretical knowledge or the process. It suggests that while learning and practicing are essential, the real growth as a musician comes from the act of creating music.

💡Overproduction

Overproduction is the excessive use of production techniques to refine a piece of music to the point where it may lose its originality or authenticity. The script warns against overproducing, suggesting that it can detract from the natural feel and emotion of the music. It advocates for a balance where production enhances the music without overshadowing the initial creative intent.

💡Human Performance Artifacts

Human performance artifacts refer to the unique nuances and imperfections that come from live performances, which can add character and authenticity to music. The video appreciates these artifacts as something that is 'distinctly interesting and beautiful,' contrasting with overly polished or edited performances. It suggests that embracing the human element can lead to more engaging and relatable music.

💡Efficient vs. Lazy

The distinction between being efficient and being lazy is discussed in the context of music creation. The video suggests that while it's easy to fall into the trap of being lazy and not producing music, being efficient involves using time and resources wisely to create music effectively. It encourages musicians to find the balance between these two states to be productive without compromising the quality or authenticity of their work.

Highlights

The music industry requires a balance between practice, writing, producing, promoting, and often a day job due to the streaming economy.

To be a successful musician, one must also adapt to social media trends and possibly start a YouTube channel.

Becoming proficient at music requires time and dedication, which many find challenging.

The speaker shares personal experiences transitioning from a hobbyist to a full-time musician.

Inspiration in music often comes from limiting writing time and being intentional with creative moments.

Creativity in music is about combining existing elements in a unique way that reflects personal choices.

Overemphasis on methodology can detract from the actual creation of music.

True musicianship involves learning the instrument and then letting go to create spontaneously.

Excessive practice can lead to diminishing returns and hinder actual music creation.

Watching tutorials does not equate to creating music; one must actively engage in the process.

Overproduction can detract from the essence of a song and should be used sparingly.

A good song can stand on its own without relying on production quality.

Using minimal information to convey a point can be powerful in music production.

Limiting the use of production tools can improve songwriting by focusing on authenticity.

The rough mix of a song should reflect the original recording without additional fixes.

Overediting can remove the human element from music, which is a vital aspect of its appeal.

Playing music live in one take can enhance musicianship and create a more authentic performance.

The difference between being lazy and being efficient in music creation is nuanced.

Encouragement to leave passive consumption behind and actively create music.

Transcripts

music is hard you've got to practice

you've got to write you've got to

produce you've got to promote and Market

you've probably got to work a job on top

of that because the streaming economy is

a joke and there's basically no money

left in the industry you've got to jump

on all the latest Tik Tok Trends and

then probably also start a YouTube

channel too because that's what being a

musician is anymore

apparently but somewhere along the way

you've also got to get really really

damn good

at being a musician and that's really

hard because let's be

real nobody's got time for that

being someone who went from just

doing the stuff on the side for fun to

someone who actually does it full-time

and pays their bills with it when it

comes to music I have learned a lot and

failed at a whole lot more and over the

years that's taught me a lot about what

makes me most effective at actually

getting music done and in this video I

wanted to just dissect some of these

habits that I've developed or maybe more

accurately stolen from other artists

that I think will make you really good

at being a very lazy

musician if there's one universal truth

we all know and love it's that it's

really easy to sit in front of your doll

for 18 hours a day making beats or

whatever but it's really hard to make

good ones good ideas are inspired ideas

and I don't know about you but for me

personally inspiration doesn't generally

come in the form of staring at my

computer looking at the eighth new

plugin I bought that week that I

convinced myself would help me to make

better music while listening to the

track I made that sounds exactly the

same as the last 30 tracks I wrote

there's a pretty delicate balance that

you just need to learn to maintain

between consuming and creating if you do

too much of one the other just

inevitably suffers if writing our best

music comes from writing what we know

and writing what we connect with most

then we're probably going to have a

really hard time coming to A actually

inspired when all we've done is sit

there doing the same thing we always do

waiting for something new to happen I

think the real purpose of this idea is

limiting your time to write more

intentionally and that way when you do

sit down to work on something not only

are you going to be more inspired and

ready to work since you've been waiting

to put down that idea but you're going

to be more intentional with what you do

during the time you do have to make

[Music]

things you know it really wouldn't be a

YouTube video by some pretentious

Millennial with a fancy camera

without a line like this but

modern humans have existed for something

like 300,000 years and if you think

during your lifetime you've had a truly

unique or different experience well boy

do I have some news for you in pretty

much all creative work every good idea

has probably already been done in some

way or another about a thousand times

over and in music every chord

progression and Melody and idea

realistically is probably already out

there in some form and the totally crazy

part is that's completely fine bands

like Led Zeppelin made an entire career

out of just doing other people's a

little bit differently techno has its

roots in mot toown and disco and the

best thing you can ultimately expect

yourself to do is just make something

from the parts of whatever you find

interesting and because only you will

ever come up with that specific

combination of things while it might not

be anything profound or unique or even

anything all that new it doesn't really

matter because it was made up of your

choices and just learning to develop

that sense of self-confidence in those

choices as an artist is

everything to quote my grandpa in His

Infinite Wisdom knowing how to fix an

engine doesn't actually make the damn

thing work since internet forums and

subreddits and discords took off and I

guess after the first wave of production

YouTube hit especially there's been this

shift towards this warship and almost

fetishization of methodology and the

process without almost any emphasis

being placed on the actual musical

implementation of knowing or doing any

of these things the great Charlie Parker

once said you've got to learn your

instrument then you practice practice

practice and then when you finally get

up there on the Bandstand forget all

that and just whail as I'm sure those of

you who are older or more experienced

musicians in the comments can probably

attest to there's a pretty severe point

of diminishing returns when it comes to

just practice after a certain point

running scales and doing exercises and

practicing balancing your faders to get

things to sound right in a mix and all

that just stops being useful because

doing that isn't actually making any

music as I've said many times in the

past as I'm sure I will say many more

times in the future sitting around all

day watching every on YouTube

masquerading as an actual musician

behind a fancy camera and nice color

grading tell you how to make music won't

actually ever make your music for

you it's almost iCal how easy it is to

sit in your studio for days on end

adding endless tweaks to your tracks you

can layer you can re-record you can

quantize you can tune you can spectral

side chain and you can do just about

anything your little heart desires about

a million times over at this point in

home Recording Technology we have near

infinite tools to fix the near infinite

problems we like to create to tell

ourselves that we could do something

just a little bit better before we have

to sit down and actually just decide to

finish it one universal truth in

music is that production can't save a

shitty song and great music always

outshines the Merit of production

quality I think this has been proven

time and time again throughout the

history of recorded music from the eras

of mtown and early electronic music

through to even more contemporary

artists who emphasize the idea of a good

foundation instead of just Relentless

polish as much as we're probably all

sick of hearing about Rick Rubin and

hearing quotes from Rick Rubin ever

since that goddamn book came out I think

he has one quote in particular that I

think is essential for artists today

maybe more than ever to really start to

embody when it comes to the idea of just

letting the music speak for itself he

said there's a tremendous amount of

power in using the least amount of

information to get a point

across personally I found that mixing

using more old school techniques like

Channel strips and such and only a few

sends in a session has made me a

significantly better writer because I'm

not able to rely on anything that's

inauthentic to what was recorded in

order to fix things any production I'm

doing is simply there to clean things up

or just enhance what's already there

Vance Powell has also talked about his

own method of production where the rough

mix of a track should be with the faders

at Unity gain I think this idea is

actually pretty powerful and I've sort

of augmented this idea into my own

version of it where the rough mix of a

song can only be done with the faders

and panning anything beyond that is no

go and this really emphasizes the idea

that everything in a and in an

arrangement and everything should be

there for a reason and contribute

something and this makes you pretty

brutal with the editing and arranging

process but I think it forces you to go

down and clear things up and make it as

good as possible from the foundation so

that when you do get into the more

producer stages all you're doing is just

kind of shining things up a bit and not

trying to fix anything this is at least

in my mind the most effective way to

create the highest possible form of your

own work musically outside of any

production tools used for more of a

creative effect which I guess I would

consider to be part of the songwriting

process really you have to Simply create

an idea that works on its own without

augmentation similar to overproducing

things it's also easy to overedit and

rely way too much on augmenting the

process of actually just playing

something in live there are countless

discussions and books and YouTube videos

and quotes and articles and whatever

about the merits of human

in music there's something so distinctly

interesting and beautiful about the

artifacts of human performance whether

that's a musician playing their

instrument instead of a sampled version

of that instrument being used or the way

a beat maker flips his sample and then

starts playing the drums in live on some

drum pads on an MPC or something instead

of just clicking together some midi in a

DA and there's something in that that

we're just innately drawn to especially

in the world of digital recording we

have effectively unlimited doovers

unlimited ways to correct things and

instant access to punching in and

nailing things down four bars at a time

this can be useful to sometimes save a

take that's almost there with a couple

minor flubs or to spot in an idea that

somehow adds something new but it's easy

to have it become a little bit of a deal

with the devil now there's certainly a

time and a place for this kind of stuff

and I suppose there is also an aesthetic

consideration in argument to be made

about the use of things that are over

shined and perfected and sometimes

that's useful especially in contrast to

more organic elements as stupid as it

sounds sometimes it is really easy to

get lost in the land of infinite doovers

because for a lot of us we're working

out of home Studios and such where no

one's really witnessed to the fact that

we're only doing things four bars at a

time and it's pretty easy to forget that

sometimes the most effective way to do

something is just to play it in live in

one go and you'll be a better musician

for it

because well you have to actually play

what you

wrote you know if there is one thing

I've learned so far in my 30 years of

successfully not imploding from

existential dread it's that in life

there is a difference between lazy and

efficient however it's often not all

that far between those two points so

with that maybe it's time for me to

remind you to get the off of

YouTube and go do that music stuff

you've been working on and why not

finish it the lazy way like the

degenerate half-ass musician we all know

you are deep down inside because I mean

hey at least then you'll have something

to show for it