Making music on a computer sucked for me until I understood this

Summary

The video discusses the creative challenges of making music on a computer versus using simpler gear like an Electribe. It suggests that the tactile experience and limitations of hardware can enhance expressiveness and energy in music production. The speaker recommends applying these constraints to computer-based music making to boost creativity and produce more emotionally resonant tracks.

Takeaways

• 😀 The script discusses the common issue of tracks becoming dull when expanded from a loop to a full arrangement.
• 🎶 The author shares their personal experience of feeling more energy and expressiveness in tracks created on simpler gear like the Electribe.
• 💻 The difference in energy between tracks made on a computer and those made on hardware is attributed to the tactile experience and constraints of hardware.
• 🔧 Working on a computer allows for more time to think and perfect the arrangement, which can lead to a loss of spontaneity and expressiveness.
• 🚫 The author suggests that constraints and limitations can actually enhance creativity and the expressiveness of music.
• 🔄 The idea of using the mute feature on hardware like the Electribe to arrange tracks can be replicated in software like Ableton by mapping mute buttons.
• 🎹 Instead of meticulously arranging with a mouse, the author recommends recording the initial arrangement with a MIDI controller for a more expressive result.
• 🤔 The author encourages considering how to apply the concepts and constraints of working on hardware to the workflow on a computer.
• 📈 Starting with minimal elements, similar to working on hardware, can force creativity and lead to a more expressive track.
• 🔧 The author emphasizes the importance of focusing on the initial, expressive arrangement before perfecting and adding details later on.
• 🌟 The script concludes by suggesting that applying hardware concepts to computer-based music production can unlock creativity and improve the emotional impact of the music.

Q & A

Why does the artist feel that tracks made on a computer can sometimes feel lifeless?

The artist believes that tracks made on a computer can feel lifeless because the process of arranging them with a keyboard and mouse lacks the expressiveness and energy that comes from physically interacting with an instrument or simpler gear.

What is the main difference the artist noticed between working on a computer and working on simpler gear like an Electribe?

The main difference is that working on simpler gear like an Electribe imposes limitations and constraints that force the artist to be in the moment, leading to more expressive and energetic tracks, whereas working on a computer allows for more time to think and perfect, potentially leading to overthinking and loss of spontaneity.

How does the artist suggest using the mute feature on a simpler device like an Electribe?

The artist suggests using the mute feature to bring in and out different parts of the track, arranging it through the mute function, which can help in creating a more spontaneous and expressive arrangement.

What is the artist's recommendation for simulating the limitations of simpler gear when working on a computer?

The artist recommends treating the computer as if it were a simpler piece of gear by ignoring its full power and applying constraints, such as using fewer tracks and VSTs, and focusing on the initial, expressive arrangement.

Why does the artist believe that using a MIDI controller for automation can improve the expressiveness of a track?

Using a MIDI controller for automation allows the artist to record their physical movements on a knob, which can add a level of expressiveness and human touch that is often lost when automating with a mouse.

What is the artist's view on the role of expressiveness in music production?

The artist believes that expressiveness is crucial in music production as it allows the artist to convey their feelings and emotions, making the music more relatable and engaging to listeners.

How does the artist describe the creative process when working on a computer versus working on simpler gear?

The artist describes the creative process on a computer as potentially overthought and lacking in spontaneity, while working on simpler gear is more about being in the moment and allowing the arrangement to be dictated by the artist's immediate feelings and physical interactions.

What is the artist's suggestion for starting a track with minimal elements?

The artist suggests starting a track with as few as eight tracks, similar to how one might work on hardware, and focusing on creating a strong, expressive foundation before adding more elements.

How does the artist feel about the idea of applying constraints to the creative process?

The artist believes that applying constraints can actually enhance creativity, as it forces the artist to focus on the essentials and express themselves more directly and spontaneously.

What is the artist's advice for those who feel their computer-based music production lacks energy?

The artist advises these individuals to consider applying some of the concepts and constraints from working on simpler gear to their computer-based workflow, such as using fewer tracks and focusing on the initial, expressive arrangement.