So, you’re heading into the recording studio — awesome!
Working in a studio to record your music is an exciting, creative journey—but it can also be intimidating, when knowing your creativity will be captured in just a single moment… Whether you’ve recorded multiple albums or it’s your first time in a professional studio, the mix of excitement, focus, anticipation for creative magic, and insecurity can sometimes seem to work against you. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or it’s your first time, walking into that room with all the fancy gear around can feel overwhelming. You’re excited, focused, hoping for that one magical creative moment… but also feeling tensed.
Remember, this is completely normal. You’re NOT crazy. You’re not alone. Every artist has gone through it and still do. The key to a great session is knowing how to channel those emotions. Here are eight essential tips to help you make the most of your studio time:
1. Practice Until It’s Second Nature
You need to know your music so well that you can play it on autopilot. Practice until you can perform your part perfectly while mentally doing something else—like thinking about washing those dishes that were left behind on your kitchen cupboard. The more confident you are in your material, the less room there is for insecurity to creep in.
2. Familiarize Yourself with the Studio Environment
A recording studio can feel intimidating because it’s where your creativity is captured and permanently laid down, no mercy. Visit the studio ahead of time, if possible. Get to know the space: sit in the control room, listen to music there, ask questions, check out the gear, even try the coffee and the couch. The more comfortable you are with the space, the more focused you’ll be when it’s time to record.
3. Stay Organized and Tidy
When you arrive, stay neat and focused. Don’t throw your gear or personal items everywhere. Clean out empty pizza boxes after dinner, be tidy and avoid chaos. It will help you clear your mind. Bring only what you really need, as having too much gear can create confusion and slow down decision-making. A clean and organized space helps you maintain clarity and keeps distractions at bay.
4. Forget About Money While Recording
Thinking about costs while you’re recording will only stifle your creativity. Before you step into the studio, have everything set in terms of budget and deadlines. Understand that sessions can move fast or slow, so be flexible but prepared. Once you’re in the studio, focus entirely on the music. Remember, inspiration doesn’t care about your credit score.
5. Stay Sober and Sharp
Avoid drugs and alcohol. Look, we get it—sometimes it’s tempting to take the edge off. But drugs or booze will turn you from a rock star to a half-functioning karaoke singer real quick. It will dull your focus and lead to sloppy performances, which will only increase your anxiety. Instead, go in with a clear mind and a determined attitude. Be energetic, excited, be your absolute self and ready to give your best.
6. Have a Plan and Stick to It
Before you start recording, create a plan. Write down your goals, and make a checklist for each track. Give your sound engineer a clear set of instructions and a timeline. This will ensure that both you and the engineer are on the same page. Start by laying down the essential tracks, and you can always make adjustments or changes later. Discipline will keep the session on track.
7. Channel Your Insecurity into Creativity
It’s natural to feel insecure during the recording process. Instead of fighting it, use that insecurity as a catalyst for creativity. Some of the most powerful performances come from raw emotion. Embrace your vulnerability—use it as energy to bring something real and raw to the recording, it could lead to something truly special.
8. Enjoy What You Do in the Studio
Above all else, remember to enjoy the process. The studio is a place where your ideas come to life, where creativity takes shape. Yes, there’s pressure, but don’t let that overshadow the fact that you’re doing what you love. Let yourself get lost in the music, experiment, have fun with it, and embrace the moments of discovery. The more you enjoy yourself, the more that positive energy will translate into your recordings—and that’s something people will feel when they listen.
Remember, every artist experiences tension and emotions in the studio. But with the right preparation, focus, and attitude, you can turn that energy into an unforgettable recording session.
Now go in there, enjoy and create something magical!
Bo Brocken – CEO, producer and sound engineer at Natural Records – Recording Facilities