| What is a producer
- and why would I want one for my recording?
All too often, a band or solo artist will book time at the best recording studio they can find within their budget. They have access to fantastic equipment, a great sounding room, expensive microphones, a skilled engineer and all that goes with such a facility. But when they finish their recording, they feel that there's something missing; the music doesn't sound "quite right" or "totally professional". Most of the time, the missing element is simple, yet it is often the most difficult to realize is needed. That element is a producer, someone who maintains the overview, the bigger picture, and helps to make sure the project meets its mark. My intention in creating Possum Hall Studios was to design a work space that allowed me to work directly with clients. This eliminates the need to use pricey commercial studios (except for very specific purposes, if any) and the requirement for a separate engineer, thus making it cost effective to work with a producer on an independent budget. Each recording project is unique, and each band or artist has specific needs for their project. As a producer, my job is to help make sure that those needs are met efficiently and effectively while maintaining the focus on the final goal. Depending on your recording project and the needs thereof, my role as producer may include any of the following (and more):
My production style/general aesthetic would be described as detailed and
super-clean. I focus on accuracy and clarity of performances, careful
and intentional arrangements, and as much editing and studio magic as
a client wishes to have happen. I also like to throw in sonic curve balls,
dabbling with the experimental whenever appropriate.
My primary focus as a producer is with singer/songwriters (AAA radio genre but preferably with a quirky spin). I also have worked extensively in rock, metal, industrial, experimental, electronic, world fusion and ambient. I am open and able to discuss working with a client in many other genres, as well. Every project is different, and the cost for projects is no different. When I work on recordings with clients, we create a budget and timeline, and then we leave clocking hours to commercial studios. Creativity doesn't wear a watch. If you are interested in discussing your project, timeline, and budget, please contact me for more information. |
A client once told me that he thought of a producer as being the last set
of "fresh ears" to listen to the music before it goes to "tape". (Okay,
"hard drive" these days.) Another person once defined a producer as "the
new hired band member for the album". Overall, a producer is the person you
bring with you to the studio who makes sure that your recording gets done
and done right the first time.
Most people never really consider hiring a producer for an independent
recording project, cost being the most prohibiting factor. Studio at
$50/hour PLUS engineer at $25/hour PLUS the cost of a producer? Not
without a label or other investment capital. Yet, an album released
on a record label always has a producer, and that's what you, as an
independent recording artist, are competing with, whether you like it
or not.
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