You're a musician. Like most musicians, you write songs. And when you write a song that you're all excited about, you record it, probably mostly at home, perhaps in some local studios too. You may even invite some friends to participate. Then you probably put your new record on streaming sites, band sites, and social media sites, perhaps all of those, because you feel you absolutely killed it, and the whole world needs to hear your new song right now. Some months later, you listen to your record again, only to realize you still adore the song, but the record itself fell short. Just like the last one did.
Which brings up a very important question: Are you 100% satisfied with your records?
Most of you are going to answer 'no' to that. Some of you probably believe that it's not even possible to be fully satisfied with your records. I'm here to tell you that it is. Who am I? I'm Mixerman, a producer, mixer, and recordist with multiple gold and platinum awards to my name. I was in precisely your position when I started out. I was a musician, happy with my songs, but frustrated with the recordings. In fact, it took me years to figure out how to make a Killer Record. The good news? I can help you to accelerate the learning curve considerably.
It doesn't matter whether you make hip-hop or country, electronica or metal, indie rock or power pop, no matter the genre, there are certain truths that are universal to all music. You are operating within a set of limitations both musically and technically and that's where your creativity must shine. You have what you have, and what you have is going to change. Your great Art is made manifest with the resources available to you right now.
This Survival Guide will help you overcome any impediment that might prevent you from achieving the record you intend, regardless of your recording environment, regardless of your gear, and regardless of your current skillset.
You can make a Killer Record under nearly any circumstance. It just requires the right mindset.