Music Production For Beginners 2020 Edition

1. Master the essentials of home studio setup for beginners

"As a beginner, it will be irrational for you to spend a lot of money renting studio space to make your tracks."

Start small, grow gradually. Begin with the basics: a computer, sound monitors, headphones, a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), microphones, and an audio interface. Choose equipment that fits your budget and space constraints. For example, opt for a laptop with at least 8GB RAM and a dual-core processor for optimal performance. Select studio monitors like KRK Rokits 6G3 for quality sound reproduction.

Prioritize sound quality. Invest in a good microphone, such as the Audio-Technica AT2020, which offers excellent sound capture for vocals and instruments. An audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB can provide the necessary connectivity between your equipment and computer. Remember, it's not about having the most expensive gear, but rather learning to use what you have effectively.

2. Choose the right Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) for your needs

"As a beginner, choosing the right DAW for you will be the most difficult step you take in your music production journey because your DAW software in the brain box of your whole studio set."

Understand your requirements. Consider factors like your computer system compatibility, budget, and production goals when selecting a DAW. Popular options include:

• FL Studio: Ideal for beginners, offers a free trial with unlimited time
• Ableton Live: Great for live performances and electronic music production
• Reaper: Budget-friendly with a wide array of features
• PreSonus Studio One: Known for its fast and easy mixing capabilities

Try before you buy. Most DAWs offer free trials or demo versions. Experiment with different software to find the one that best suits your workflow and production style. Remember, proficiency in your chosen DAW comes with practice and familiarity.

3. Understand music theory fundamentals for better production

"Learning one aspect or more of music theory will serve as an added advantage to all musicians."

Master the basics. Focus on understanding the three core building blocks of music:

• Melody: The linear sequence of notes that form the main theme
• Harmony: The combination of different pitches to create chords and progressions
• Rhythm: The systematic division of music into beats and measures

Apply theory to practice. Learn about scales, chords, and chord progressions to enhance your composition skills. Familiarize yourself with music notation, keys, and time signatures. While formal education isn't necessary, having a solid grasp of these concepts will significantly improve your ability to create and produce music effectively.

4. Adapt to current trends and future developments in music production

"Everything in the music scene seems to be in a fierce hurry somewhere."

Stay informed and flexible. Keep abreast of emerging trends in the music industry, such as:

• The decline of physical media and the rise of streaming services
• The growing importance of hip-hop artist residencies
• The potential impact of virtual reality on music experiences
• The increasing role of artificial intelligence in music production

Embrace change. Be prepared to adapt your production techniques and business strategies to align with industry shifts. For example, focus on creating music that translates well to streaming platforms and consider exploring new genres or collaborations to expand your audience reach.

5. Follow a structured approach to making your first song

"Making music now is the easiest it has ever been, and with the way things are going, it is going to get easier and easier."

Break down the process. Approach song creation in four main stages:

1. Recording: Write lyrics, compose melodies, and record instruments and vocals
2. Audio Editing: Arrange tracks, adjust timing, and clean up recordings
3. Mixing: Balance levels, apply effects, and create a cohesive sound
4. Mastering: Polish the final mix for consistent sound across different playback systems

Focus on creativity. While technical skills are important, don't let them overshadow your artistic expression. Experiment with different sounds, structures, and styles to develop your unique voice as a producer and artist.

6. Develop mixing skills to enhance your music production

"Mixing is all about creativity; it is the major artistic ingredient in the whole song production soup."

Learn the fundamentals. Master key mixing techniques such as:

• Balancing levels
• Panning for stereo width
• Equalization (EQ) for frequency balance
• Compression for dynamic control
• Adding effects like reverb and delay

Practice regularly. Mixing is a skill that improves with experience. Analyze professional mixes in your genre and try to recreate similar sounds. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and plugins to find your unique mixing style.

7. Create a unique brand identity to stand out in the music industry

"Branding is what makes you distinguishable from others, think of it as your reputation."

Define your brand vision. Consider what message you want to convey through your music and persona. Develop self-awareness to understand your unique qualities and how they can translate into a compelling brand identity.

Implement your brand consistently. Use various channels to promote your brand:

• Create a professional website
• Utilize social media platforms effectively
• Collaborate with influential artists
• Develop a signature sound that sets you apart

Remember that branding is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and refinement over time.

8. Seek and utilize feedback to improve your music

"Feedback is one of the best ways of improving your songs."

Actively seek diverse opinions. Gather feedback from various sources:

• Online forums and websites dedicated to music feedback
• Music blogs and industry professionals
• Fellow musicians and producers
• Your target audience

Be specific in your requests. When asking for feedback, clearly state which aspects of your music you want opinions on, such as lyrics, production quality, or overall composition. This will help you receive more focused and actionable advice.

Learn to accept criticism constructively. Use feedback as a tool for growth and improvement, rather than taking it personally. Analyze the comments you receive and incorporate valuable suggestions into your work to continually refine your skills and output.