Despite that fact that modern technology has made it easier for independent musicians to self-record, there is still a fierce amount of competition out there, and a pressure to release the best product you possibly can. When it comes to doing a recording, I phrase the musician’s dilemma this way: do you “just do it”, or do it “right?” In other words, where do you find the balance between getting your music out there to people, and holding off until you’ve raised enough money for a high-budget recording?
Many, many years ago, before legal and illegal downloads, before CDs, cassettes, 8-tracks and vinyl, before Mr. Edison invented that contraption with the needle and the horn, all music was played live. In our time, where we can keep several days’ worth of recorded music on a hand-held device, this is something we can easily forget. But interestingly, with all the changes that are happening in the musical landscape, one remarkable trend happening in the indie scene is a return to an emphasis on live performances. Ironically, despite the fact that almost anyone can make a digital recording and post it on the Internet for downloading–live music is making a comeback. Let’s talk about what may be causing this to happen.
Indie musicians: have you heard of SoundExchange? If not, you should know about them. What’s more, you should sign up with them–especially if you have recorded material that’s been released.
Why? You ask. Because you might be making money right now, without even realizing it.
Today we’ll start an ongoing series thread called “Polishing Your Performance.” This topic will discuss ways a musician can improve his/her live performance, as well as make better recordings. We’ll start with one of my pet peeves: rhythm.
In covering the music scene, I get a lot of music submissions from various artists–people who want me to hear and review their recordings in the hope of getting some exposure. (ALERT: I’m about to give away one of my secrets.) I get more of these than I have the time to cover.
