• Discuss song structure / lyrics / motifs
• Create session & discuss file management
• Played by yourself vs. hired musicians
• Decide BPM & create click track
• Real vs. virtual drummer
• Create tempo / markers
• Make basic percussion track
• Add auxiliary recorded percussion if desired
• Choose audio gear & track acoustic / bass guitar depending on feel
• Record complete performance or use duplicate tracks / takes
• Make sure fades are smooth
• Choose audio gear & track acoustic / bass
• Record complete performance or use duplicate tracks / takes
• Make sure fades are smooth
• Choose audio gear & track voice
• Doubling lead parts
• Adding harmony & other background vocal elements
• Add guitar & piano leads / textures
• Add more percussion / record real drums
• Add guitar & piano leads / textures
• Add more percussion / record real drums
• Create groups / edit audio
• Tune vocals / instruments if needed
• Start with volume & pan to create generic mix
• EQ & compression
• Create reverb / delay sends & discuss choices
• Reference mix with audio track of desired sound
• Bounce mix & listen on multiple systems
• Discuss bouncing for mastering
• Discuss mastering with stock pro tools vs. purchased plugins
• Master EQ, compression & stereo width
• Discuss dithering for final distribution