Give me 20 minutes, you’ll get ahead of 97% of producer’s

Summary

In this video, the producer shares essential tips for boosting productivity and growth in music production. Key advice includes shaping sounds early in the production process to maintain creative flow, learning the basics of multiple DAWs for flexibility, and seeking feedback from trusted sources rather than family or casual listeners. Emphasizing the importance of self-trust and strategic learning, the producer highlights how mastering your DAW and being open to new techniques can rapidly accelerate your development. Ultimately, the video encourages producers to stay focused on their own style and build a feedback loop with knowledgeable mentors to grow fast.

Takeaways

• 😀 Trust your ears early on when creating music; apply simple techniques like leveling and effects to shape the sound as you go.
• 😀 Using early effects and adjustments saves time during the final stages and ensures the track aligns with your original vision.
• 😀 Learn the basics of other DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) to avoid fumbling in sessions where you're not using your usual DAW.
• 😀 Don't get caught up in DAW debates. Your go-to DAW is the best as long as you're proficient with it.
• 😀 It's a good idea to know how to navigate other DAWs at a basic level for flexibility, but mastering your primary DAW should be your focus.
• 😀 Seek feedback from experienced producers and communities rather than relying on family or non-professional opinions.
• 😀 Constructive feedback from trusted sources is crucial for rapid growth in music production.
• 😀 Trust your own taste. If you don't like the music you're creating, others probably won't connect with it either.
• 😀 Feedback is only useful when it comes from people who truly understand the game and can give specific, actionable advice.
• 😀 Master your current tools but also keep a broad enough skill set to contribute in various production environments.
• 😀 Speed of learning is crucial in overcoming obstacles and accelerating growth as a music producer.

Q & A

What is the benefit of shaping sounds and applying effects early in the production process?

Shaping sounds and applying effects early in the production process keeps the vibe right as you work. This ensures that the beat already feels good in the moment, which helps maintain inspiration. It also saves time in the end, as you only need to make minor tweaks, resulting in a more polished track that matches your original vision.

Why is it important to understand how to use different DAWs, even if you have a favorite?

It’s important to understand other DAWs because, in certain sessions, you may be required to work in a DAW that you aren’t familiar with. Having a basic understanding allows you to contribute to the session effectively without losing momentum or ruining the vibe, making you a more versatile producer.

What mistake did the producer almost make, and how did knowing multiple DAWs help?

The producer almost struggled in a studio session because the artist was using Logic to record vocals, while the producer typically works in FL Studio. However, a prior experience with a 'door swap challenge' where they learned the basics of Logic allowed them to navigate the session smoothly without disrupting the workflow.

What is the key takeaway from the debate about which DAW is best (FL, Ableton, Logic, ProTools)?

The key takeaway is that all DAWs are capable of producing professional music. The best DAW is the one you are most comfortable with and can use efficiently. The focus should be on mastering your chosen DAW, rather than feeling pressured to switch because of opinions from others.

How can a producer avoid the cycle of slow progress caused by seeking feedback from unqualified sources?

A producer can avoid slow progress by seeking feedback from people who actually understand music production, such as fellow producers or mentors. Family and friends may offer supportive comments, but they may not provide the constructive feedback needed to improve the music.

What impact did finding a producer community have on the producer’s growth?

Joining a producer community, such as online forums or feedback groups, provided the producer with specific, constructive feedback from people who understood the craft. This type of feedback accelerated their growth, helping them improve faster than when they relied on the opinions of family.

Why is it important for a producer to trust their own taste?

Trusting your own taste is crucial because it helps guide your sound and ensures authenticity. If you don’t enjoy the music you’re making, others likely won’t connect with it either. Your personal taste acts as your compass in developing a unique and true-to-you sound.

What is meant by a 'feedback loop,' and how does it contribute to a producer’s development?

A feedback loop refers to continuously receiving and reflecting on feedback from trusted sources, such as experienced producers or mentors. It helps a producer refine their work, spot areas for improvement, and grow their skills, ultimately leading to better music production.

How can mentorship impact a producer’s development?

Mentorship offers objective insights and guidance from someone ahead in the field. It helps producers see things from a professional perspective, avoid common mistakes, and accelerate their learning by having a clear direction to follow.

What is the role of learning quickly in music production, and how can it benefit a producer?

Learning quickly is vital because it allows a producer to overcome obstacles and implement the best practices more effectively. It accelerates progress by helping producers adapt to new techniques, workflows, and software without getting bogged down by mistakes or inefficiencies.