I recently quit my job and moved back in with my mom and told her that I wanted to be a mix engineer...literally in the last 2 weeks. She told me I should focus on getting a "real job".This vid is like a sign from God for me. Thanks so much Graham. You've been my blessing.
Great tips! A HUGE problem I encountered last year and am still dealing with is that I didn't research enough of what my client wanted. I charged a simple "track and mix" rate. $xxx per song. As time progressed they kept asking to add more and more elements to each song and adding more songs because of my low rate plus all of those extra elements I had to perform and write myself because they didn't know someone else who could deliver the same result. It was extremely stressful and time consuming for me to write the parts because it was way outside of my personal style, sometimes the things I'd write were rejected. I asked to be payed early just so I could buy certain things to use in performing some of these parts (virtual instruments, etc). On top of this I have a day job which restricts my availability. Adding all this took up ALL of my time. I just want to say: charge the right rate! I ended up tracking, mixing, writing, rearranging song format, and performing multiple instruments including some of their parts 'cause it sounded better. That sounds more like a producer's rate doesn't it? I learned my lesson big time.
+Flynn LeMonnier I'm recording my first 'client' this weekend, I've always recorded myself and a few close friends but this is my first real session with another person! Stoked!
I have to say, even after being in this for a while as a beatmaker/producer, and making a living of this for the last couple of years, I do come back every 6 months or so to this specific video. I think its something people need to constantly be reminded of. Great video!
Because of you and a few other UA-camrs, my first EP production sounds really good and the band is already trying to pay me to do another one and mix/master some live tracks. Thanks!
A really important producer in Nashville said this to me: "Do charge something for every single work. You could charge 20$ for recording + mixing of 10 songs in an album, but the charge gives your work a value. Otherwise your effort will have no value at all for clients. Even if they are friends. Do not do it for free.". And I agree completely. That said, you are saying very useful things, thanks a lot as usual for sharing the things you know, you're really good! Hope you'll get where you want!
I've been a paid professional for almost 20 years. The first piece of advice is to get to know the sound of your speaker/room intimately. Your first mixes will sound great to you on YOUR system. Then you'll play them on other systems and start to hear the flaws. You'll go back and start tweaking your mixes until you reach a happy medium. Then A/B your new mixes against your old ones. Be critical, especially about the low end.
Thanks to you, I now run my own local recording studio. I've done the whole "do it for free" thing for a year and a bit. Even now, I find it hard to put my rates up and it's purely a confidence thing. I had my first signed artist in recording two weeks ago. I couldn't have done any of this without your videos. Both for practical knowledge and philosophy. The recording revolution has been a life saver for me. Thanks again. Because of you, I now do the job I've dreamed of since I was 15.
I love your videos Graham, especially this one, it feels like you're not hearing a vlogger, a musician or producer, it feels more like a friend, one of us that just tries to help and you spread the word in a really amazing way, and I personally appreciate it, helped a lot
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man i did this exact strategy during 2016 here in Brazil where i live and its working! No words to describe how this video helped me to achieve my first goal leaving my day job! I can't thank you enough man! I only see God in all of these that happened to me this year!
Great Vid Graham. Lets not forget Customer Service. Good customer service = Repeat Business, Bad customer Service = No Business. Most important of all, NEVER give a client a master of your mix until you are PAID in full.
My musician boyfriend showed me this. I'm a young graphic designer who is really struggling with this part. Really glad I watched because you've said some very simple and obvious truths that make me feel a lot less bad about what I want to charge and a lot more confident about doing it.
I'm a Musician and also a producer. I produce pictures, film and especially music and I'm doing this for years. And your vlog just helped me to overcome my fear. You just nailed every questions I have in mind. Thanks you very much!
Acoustical Physics, Electronics basics, Getting to use Pro studios for free so you're not scared and clueless in real studio, building contacts, understanding how budgets and music business works, good teachers will mentor you through your career, honestly being a college graduate for Audio Engineering demands respect. Highly recommended
saw this pop up in the recommended videos and was gonna pass it up till i saw it was 22 min. i was like "wtf can he be saying about the matter?" glad i watched it...very important info
Brilliant advice! I have recently decided to start charging for recording, mixing and mastering. After watching this video I feel I have made the right decisions as before I was doing absolutely EVERYTHING for free and, of course, at the start my mixes were extremely sketchy but after working with a ton of artists varying in genre I was able to constantly improve and now all of the artists that I work with achieve local and national radio AND TV play which in my mind tells me that I am doing something right! It feels GREAT even though I still charge quite a minimal rate while still not making enough to live off, I plan to carry on recording because it is my passion and would love to make a career out of it while I attend university to get my teaching degree which is also a huge passion of mine! Again thanks for making such great videos, they have been a great help to me and I'm sure to everyone else who watches! Please don't ever stop what you are doing! Brad
If you have clients who are achieving local and national radio, then you need to up your rate this year by $5 or $10. You are doing something right. Don't ever stop because you are on your way to the lifestyle you want from this.
Graham i have to say i have been listening and watching you for about almost 2 years now. Thank you. I hope the Lord blesses you with all his power, because you give the same towards others. I would be such an lost engineer, without your help. And even though you charge for somethings, you give so much information that is well needed for free, and that shows that you care, so again thank you.
one of the best ways to get clients to work with you is to offer them a free demo of a song or two it works for me once they know how you can make them sound great they're not scared to fork out the money for an album because they know you can make them sound good and you do quality work and when they're at your home studio and tracking is done if they want to stick around while you work on mixing don't be scared to mix in front of them let them see the whole process if they need to or if they want to showing them every step process so that way they know what their money is going to it has helped me get repeat customers
Just want to say thank you so much for creating this channel and helping us new/inexperienced guys understand the craft. Just with the knowledge I've gleaned from you, I've already gotten better recordings/mixes with my $600 set up (minus cost of my computer) than any $1000 session that I've done with a "pro". I hope that one day I get to meet and thank you in person.
There are so many great tutorials on youtube that explain the art of recording and mixing. Especially on Your channel. You explain things so clear and precise. Your the best.
This is great. I've seen several videos covering this topic, and none of them have given as much detailed info as this one. Thank you for taking the time to go through all of that.
Your videos are so great. You are humble, know what you are doing, know your viewers' struggle as producers and you give very genuine suggestions. Huge thanks!
Exactly man, I really appreciate this video I have a session this week and was trying to decide if to charge or not I think my work is pretty good but I like your concept give a free demo as well, thanks a lot!
I really needed to hear this... although more people have been telling me this.. I really need to start charging for my work. I know I'm good at the stage I am, I studied this in college... Thanks man!
fantastic pep talk!!! I've gone through all of the stages you describe, and you are so correct in the statement, "We always think we aren't worth as much as we charge because we recognize our flaws." Thanks for making these videos. I sincerely appreciate it. I've been recording my own bands and my own music for years, and now I'm at a stage where I don't advertise because projects find me. The reason they find me is my body of work. It's a long road. But being passionate is so KEY! :)
Graham, I can't thank you enough for making this video! I've been freelancing for 3 years now mostly recording r&b & hip hop and everything in this video is extreme true! I've gone through all 3 stages and I couldn't agree with you more!
This is probably my 3rd time listening to one of your videos, where I had to abruptly pause the video and say thanks! You are a natural teacher/mentor. I come from a family of teachers and professors, and of course musicians, and you have that inviting quality that makes a student like myself comfortable in learning without feeling like an out of place amateur - if that makes sense. I don't feel like a rookie wasting the time of the seasoned vet. Well done!
Thanks Graham! really inspiring video. Right now, I'm on that phase were I'm charging a symbolical amount of money per song recorded and mixed, and we're being hired more and more, and, as you say, I'm investing that money on new gear. So, now that we are offering more services (live drums, quantization, voice tuning, etc...) and after watching this video, I'm more confident about rising fares. Thanks! PS: MOST of my mixing skills I learnt and experimented with after watching your videos.
Hi Graham, great videos on your channel thank you. Here are some reflexion of mine after watching your video: - I would add that charging people make them more involved in their own project. (crazy no?) - I Ask half of the bill at the end of the recordind session and second half when I deliver the CD or wave or whatever. - When you can define a number of hour you need for a project, it suits the budget of the band and help you to organise your work, trying to not pass too much or too less time on it. I hope these can help.
This is a good video. However charging by the song or project is very dangerous. I think it is better to charge by the hour - but give your client a realistic estimate of the time involved. That way you are in it together, working efficiently (i.e. reasonable numbers of vocal takes if you are recording, or mix tweaks if you are mixing, etc...) I've been at this full-time for 15 years - so please take my comments as constructive.
Swag Domo I charge by the song with a limit on revisions. It makes the client think about what they really want out of the revision. Then more revisions costs more. It puts an actual value on my skill, not just my time.
I practice this as well much easier to get gigs this way by the hour makes more sense but todays consumers don't really invest that much into themselves. Only my media clients go by the hour because they understand the game. But artist lol good luck
This is basically what he said he does, He said, "know your hourly rate...". So you're still charging by the hour based on your estimate of how many hours it will take. It's the same way most other contracting companies operate. All the client knows is he/she is paying per song.
Thank you alot for making this video, Graham. It speaks directly to my heart. Where i'm at and where i'm heading. And that's beyond music. This breakdown is a lesson for life! /Grayz
Thank you so much for this talk. You made me realize all these fears and uncertainties I've had for so long and I think this applies not only to recording and mixing, but other freelance work too.
You are SO correct on so many levels!! Although I don't really do music production, these are still the same processes I went through. Also, it was quantifiable for me to hear you talk about those who don't want to pay your rates as well-that's how I try to look at it too: Those people just aren't in my 'target demographic'. The fear is still there with me though somewhat and probably always will. Thanks for always sharing with the world!
Great message, Graham! I am currently studying Audio Engineering and Recording in Georgia through The Recording Connection based in California. I have really enjoyed your videos and have found them helpful as I'm learning in the studio and reading my lessons. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and philosophy. Cheers!
This was awesome, thank you!!! I'm currently attending CRAS left the comforts of the military pay to pursue this and had been doing the "free" thing for so long before school and I guess fell into the "I'm still not good enough to charge" thing. this helped ALOT to motivate me. Thank you
.... (Contd. from previous post) : 3. The third category of artists/musicians are those who have some momentum with their music career. While they are not signed to a major record label/publisher, these artists have carved out a niche for themselves and are either putting out entirely self funded music or have the backing of indie record label/publisher. Because these artists have some budgets for their projects, they would make a perfect target market for project home studio based mixers/engineers. However, irony is that competition is very fierce in this very limited market space. There is literally 20 studios for 1 project of this nature. And to make things worse, well established major studios have now also started taking share of this market space by offering low priced on-line mixing & mastering services. So any "paying" client will almost always prefer to go with them. So where does that leave the project home studio producer/engineer/mixer. The Freebie DIY musician market !!
Vocalist / songwriter here. I’ve hired 6 different music producers And they all have their strengths. The reason for so many comes down to different price points, genre specialities because I’m a multi genre songwriter. And over all ,the producer must have a really great portfolio period. I’ve spent 10000 k on music demos, ranging from my vocals to hired session vocalist . ( also knowing diverse session vocalist to sing on your demos can add value) I started out spending a lot of money on every song . I wised up and found people that are extremely talented and have worked with many known bands that you hear on the radio. I’ve found that a 500.00 to 600.00 for each project is an agreeable price point. I simply let them know that I’m a serious songwriter but gone are the days of me spending thousands of dollars on just one project. Simply because I write a lot of songs, but more importantly decent songs with strong hooks addicting melodies and are always relatable. So in order for me to be able to work with someone they have to know that I’m interested in getting many works completed and to do that , the price point has to be right for my situation. Just some perspective from someone on the other side of the spectrum. Also keeping communication with your clients is so important nothing worse sending an email that doesn’t get a reply for a couple of weeks. There’s so much more to producing music than the actual act of producing music .
Graham, first of all, thanks for this and the numerous other helpful tidbits you have shared. I listened to this simply because I am currently going through that phase of 'hatemyjobandneedamajorchange' period in my life (I'm 52) and I have been recording since the early 80's with the advent of home recording. A friend from the local pub asked me to record his punk band and asked if I would do it cheap (actually he asked if I'd do it for free but knew better... smart kid) and I decided at first to take the Hells Angels Altamont approach and asked for a case of good beer... then I realized the guy was an electrician... and I need more outlets in my studio and a series of overhead lights... guess what's happening when his CD is finished? BARTER is a GREAT way to get the things done in your studio that you would have to pay others to do usually. I have a guy who's a carpenter coming in in a few weeks and I need a small section of wall built and a door hung. What do you think of my solution to the Kobyashi Maru? PS: I actually got 2 cases of good beer because with both sets of songs (they have 10 altogether) we ran demos and they took home and listened to and wanted to do it again because they thought they could do better (which was refreshing) and they did. Totally worth my time.
Charge per hour for recording to put the onus on the artist to show up prepared and get work done. Then charge a flat rate for mixing to put the onus on you to get the post work done quickly.
1000% agree. I think I've always been pretty business savvy, and he's absolutely right. Sometimes, the presumption of going to people you've developed a relationship with and being up front about the reality of the situation...if you've gone the distance for them in the past, and like you, they'll pay you. In fact, in many instances, they probably think you're worth more than you're planning on charging them.
Great information man, you just answered the questions I've been asking myself lately and you answered them well. I'm so glad I found your page. Subscribed for life.
The best advice ever giving on this topic. This also helped me in terms of the video side as well when he talked about upgrading to equipment if he was generally speaking.
I had this idea of getting potential clients interested. visiting the music departments of schools like colleges to talk to groups of students about what you do and the importance of having quality audio in tracks. thats something that would get your small business's name out.
Great advice. I would say though that there is a shortage of work out there, especially in the UK and an excess of cheap or free studios/producers, so no matter how tight the business model, its tough to get paid at all. Breaking into the commercial realm, i,e getting regular commercial work form labels requires a particular approach, one as much based on being in with the right people as anything else.
If I may offer on the topic of raising rates. I consult a friend of mine who runs their own side business (not music related). I always tell her... If you're working as much as you want and you have more demand than you can satisfy then increase your rates. Wait six months. If you still have more demand than you can satisfy in the time you want to work, repeat! Keep going until demand starts to dry up.
no offense but that may be the dumbest statement anyone has ever made. Most restaurants fail. No offense to teachers but most of them are failures too and that's why they teach so a lot of times their career advice is poor even if they know some skills.
Great video! This applies to other skills than recording alone. When listening to the main idea, you can get a lot out of it for things like webdesign and other freelance jobs as well. Thanks!
When a project is recorded, mixed, and mastered; as a beginner what is the final format to offer client? when my band was in studio we walked away with CDR version and DAT for the label. I need to know what piece of equipment to get for final version. I'm still in the free phase of my production.
Wow Graham, You always have the most inspirational videos, no matter the subject you are speaking upon. It's like, subconsciously I am aware of some of the points, but you enable me to bring them to my conscious mind and really see what I am at, allowing me to assess my work as a business and really know what it takes to be a success, and how to get there. Thank you for everything you have done for myself and all of us other recording engineers. I feel like even the real pros can learn from you.
This is great! Thank you happy holidays. I used to record on an analog tascam 4 tracks. I have been into it for yrs. met JoeSatriani when i was a kid while he recorded his stratosphere lp on his living room floor on a tascam 4tracks . but still new to pc music so learning is fun. you will never learn everything & you'd be surprised to learn from the newest newbie. I am doing some recordings for free. I do it cause i love musiic. I dont need money nor want glory or fame. so id mix master ppl for free cause i love ppl & music. they go together
A tip for going from step 2 to 3; buy acoustic paneling. Most people have no clue what it actually does but they associate it with professionalism because they saw it on TV.
Absolutely great video, thanks so much. Would love to see a video on the microphones you use if possible. I'm studying music production at university so I'm in the fortunate position of getting to use some very expensive microphones. I want to get a bit of a budget setup together for when I leave and could use some recommendations for cheaper mics, rather than just using C414s on everything.
Great video! Music is a hobby for me but i'm a freelance video editor and I've done the same with editing. All the information in this video really applies to just about any business in my opinion.
knowledge when shared builds up someone, and when kept inside just benefits little. one day i'm sure people in India are gonna have underdog mixing engineers who will say they started of looking at your videos. now what you are doing is wisdom !!! thank you graham, i will always remember you !! God Bless you brother !!!
this video has inspired me so much man. i really appreciate what you do on youtube, taking your time to help and motivate us. this video speaks to more than just musicians, im using this to help motivate me to improve my graphic design website. THANKS SO MUCH MAN!!!
Thanks for this video! I needed this inspiration!! I'm finally getting paid to do what I passionately spend many hours doing in Logic Pro X. I'm just starting to accept payments for my studio services, you are right it feels like your making progress towards your Dream of doing this Full Time. 👣💪🏾
Dealing with your client before, during, and after you've done work on their mix. Giving them the time and attention so that you can give them the best result possible. Making sure that they know what they are paying for and that they're happy with the end result. When recording, catering to the musician and their artistic vision, keeping them updated if it is a big project and being upfront and honest with them
Oh & I use a Roland VS 1680 w/Event 20/20 Mon. some Tube pre's Headphone Amp a Snake a PV mixer, AKG D-112 & C-1000's SM57's CAD mic's Audiotechnia 4033, I've done FM Radio commercial's ,Blues bands, Rock/Metal, One Rap artist I won't do that again for any money lol, & did some remastering for a BlueGrass band,All I got paid for.Know yer Gear understand EQ&compression 1st & foremost I started using a Radio shack mic & dubbing on a 2chn Cass deck, I made it work. Just do it & never stop learning
As always, Great info. I'm getting my studio up and rolling. In the past I was using SIAB but now have a Mac with PT11. This is quite an advancement for me. I will be working on familiarizing myself first and then for free until I can gain a good bit of experience. Its a little intimidating with the current software, plugins, Interfaces, and never mind proper learned technique while navigating around it all with ease. We are full speed ahead though. Hey, thanks a lot for the tips!
Muchas Gracias, me quedé pensando en todo lo que comentaste en este video porque precisamente es por lo que estoy pasando ahora mismo, en hacer más valiosa cada presentación. Para así poder grabar mi disco por mi cuenta. Thank you Graham!!
The country I live in, is presently going through a trend where none of the new bands / artists are willing to pay a reasonable amount for good recording, they seem to be interested in the cheapest option available and it creates a big problem for those who have a quality studio and a promise for quality in the recorded stuff... what would your suggestion be for that kind of a scenario ...?
Graham, please tell - is there any sense to work for mics, which give you opportunity to record drums of local rock band. When you can open any DAW and create all kinds of drum lines you couldnt even imagine? Add million boosts using plugins of rack extentions. And finally to get an ear candy. Or to buy 7 mics to record just a drums set?
Thanks so much for this video! I've been trying to get paid for this for a while now with no luck and if you are correct. I didn't do nearly enough free work to build up somewhat of a reputation. At this point i'm thinking I may as well try this approach
This video was great thanks. I think I’m on step 2 I been recording music for my brother for about a year and a half and now I that I’m getting better I feel like I should start charging a small amount. I’m thinking maybe $50 a song.
Dude I dont know what you are better at. Mixing and recording, or being a humble teacher. You have a gift. Thanks.
+GIRTHBROOKSrocknroll I give you a big thumbs up Sir! :)
GIRTHBROOKSrocknroll I fully agree
Belated thumbs up for the best name on UA-cam.
I recently quit my job and moved back in with my mom and told her that I wanted to be a mix engineer...literally in the last 2 weeks. She told me I should focus on getting a "real job".This vid is like a sign from God for me. Thanks so much Graham. You've been my blessing.
Great tips! A HUGE problem I encountered last year and am still dealing with is that I didn't research enough of what my client wanted. I charged a simple "track and mix" rate. $xxx per song. As time progressed they kept asking to add more and more elements to each song and adding more songs because of my low rate plus all of those extra elements I had to perform and write myself because they didn't know someone else who could deliver the same result. It was extremely stressful and time consuming for me to write the parts because it was way outside of my personal style, sometimes the things I'd write were rejected. I asked to be payed early just so I could buy certain things to use in performing some of these parts (virtual instruments, etc). On top of this I have a day job which restricts my availability. Adding all this took up ALL of my time.
I just want to say: charge the right rate! I ended up tracking, mixing, writing, rearranging song format, and performing multiple instruments including some of their parts 'cause it sounded better. That sounds more like a producer's rate doesn't it? I learned my lesson big time.
Thanks for the tip.
I have my first free client tomorrow. The Process begins!
+Flynn LeMonnier How did it go?
Ironicly.. they bailed on me haha. They were 17 and basicly there parent decided they no longer wanted to take them so couldn't do anythong.
Sorry to hear. Did you get any new clients?
+Flynn LeMonnier I'm recording my first 'client' this weekend, I've always recorded myself and a few close friends but this is my first real session with another person! Stoked!
+Jus Scott how'd it go?
I have to say, even after being in this for a while as a beatmaker/producer, and making a living of this for the last couple of years, I do come back every 6 months or so to this specific video. I think its something people need to constantly be reminded of. Great video!
Because of you and a few other UA-camrs, my first EP production sounds really good and the band is already trying to pay me to do another one and mix/master some live tracks. Thanks!
A really important producer in Nashville said this to me: "Do charge something for every single work. You could charge 20$ for recording + mixing of 10 songs in an album, but the charge gives your work a value. Otherwise your effort will have no value at all for clients. Even if they are friends. Do not do it for free.". And I agree completely. That said, you are saying very useful things, thanks a lot as usual for sharing the things you know, you're really good! Hope you'll get where you want!
I've been a paid professional for almost 20 years. The first piece of advice is to get to know the sound of your speaker/room intimately. Your first mixes will sound great to you on YOUR system. Then you'll play them on other systems and start to hear the flaws. You'll go back and start tweaking your mixes until you reach a happy medium. Then A/B your new mixes against your old ones. Be critical, especially about the low end.
Graham is one of the best production teachers you can find on youtube!
Thanks to you, I now run my own local recording studio. I've done the whole "do it for free" thing for a year and a bit. Even now, I find it hard to put my rates up and it's purely a confidence thing. I had my first signed artist in recording two weeks ago. I couldn't have done any of this without your videos. Both for practical knowledge and philosophy. The recording revolution has been a life saver for me. Thanks again. Because of you, I now do the job I've dreamed of since I was 15.
I love your videos Graham, especially this one, it feels like you're not hearing a vlogger, a musician or producer, it feels more like a friend, one of us that just tries to help and you spread the word in a really amazing way, and I personally appreciate it, helped a lot
man i did this exact strategy during 2016 here in Brazil where i live and its working! No words to describe how this video helped me to achieve my first goal leaving my day job! I can't thank you enough man! I only see God in all of these that happened to me this year!
Great Vid Graham. Lets not forget Customer Service. Good customer service = Repeat Business, Bad customer Service = No Business. Most important of all, NEVER give a client a master of your mix until you are PAID in full.
My musician boyfriend showed me this. I'm a young graphic designer who is really struggling with this part. Really glad I watched because you've said some very simple and obvious truths that make me feel a lot less bad about what I want to charge and a lot more confident about doing it.
I'm a Musician and also a producer. I produce pictures, film and especially music and I'm doing this for years. And your vlog just helped me to overcome my fear. You just nailed every questions I have in mind. Thanks you very much!
Acoustical Physics, Electronics basics, Getting to use Pro studios for free so you're not scared and clueless in real studio, building contacts, understanding how budgets and music business works, good teachers will mentor you through your career, honestly being a college graduate for Audio Engineering demands respect. Highly recommended
saw this pop up in the recommended videos and was gonna pass it up till i saw it was 22 min. i was like "wtf can he be saying about the matter?" glad i watched it...very important info
Brilliant advice! I have recently decided to start charging for recording, mixing and mastering. After watching this video I feel I have made the right decisions as before I was doing absolutely EVERYTHING for free and, of course, at the start my mixes were extremely sketchy but after working with a ton of artists varying in genre I was able to constantly improve and now all of the artists that I work with achieve local and national radio AND TV play which in my mind tells me that I am doing something right!
It feels GREAT even though I still charge quite a minimal rate while still not making enough to live off, I plan to carry on recording because it is my passion and would love to make a career out of it while I attend university to get my teaching degree which is also a huge passion of mine! Again thanks for making such great videos, they have been a great help to me and I'm sure to everyone else who watches! Please don't ever stop what you are doing!
Brad
If you have clients who are achieving local and national radio, then you need to up your rate this year by $5 or $10. You are doing something right. Don't ever stop because you are on your way to the lifestyle you want from this.
Graham i have to say i have been listening and watching you for about almost 2 years now. Thank you. I hope the Lord blesses you with all his power, because you give the same towards others. I would be such an lost engineer, without your help. And even though you charge for somethings, you give so much information that is well needed for free, and that shows that you care, so again thank you.
one of the best ways to get clients to work with you is to offer them a free demo of a song or two it works for me once they know how you can make them sound great they're not scared to fork out the money for an album because they know you can make them sound good and you do quality work and when they're at your home studio and tracking is done if they want to stick around while you work on mixing don't be scared to mix in front of them let them see the whole process if they need to or if they want to showing them every step process so that way they know what their money is going to it has helped me get repeat customers
Just want to say thank you so much for creating this channel and helping us new/inexperienced guys understand the craft. Just with the knowledge I've gleaned from you, I've already gotten better recordings/mixes with my $600 set up (minus cost of my computer) than any $1000 session that I've done with a "pro". I hope that one day I get to meet and thank you in person.
Thanks for another great video. You are always very helpful! Much love!
This is one of the Best videos I've seen on charging, pricing and perceived value!
Very, very good job !!!!!!!!!!!
There are so many great tutorials on youtube that explain the art of recording and mixing. Especially on Your channel. You explain things so clear and precise. Your the best.
This is great. I've seen several videos covering this topic, and none of them have given as much detailed info as this one. Thank you for taking the time to go through all of that.
Your videos are so great. You are humble, know what you are doing, know your viewers' struggle as producers and you give very genuine suggestions. Huge thanks!
Exactly man, I really appreciate this video I have a session this week and was trying to decide if to charge or not I think my work is pretty good but I like your concept give a free demo as well, thanks a lot!
I really needed to hear this... although more people have been telling me this.. I really need to start charging for my work. I know I'm good at the stage I am, I studied this in college...
Thanks man!
fantastic pep talk!!! I've gone through all of the stages you describe, and you are so correct in the statement, "We always think we aren't worth as much as we charge because we recognize our flaws." Thanks for making these videos. I sincerely appreciate it. I've been recording my own bands and my own music for years, and now I'm at a stage where I don't advertise because projects find me. The reason they find me is my body of work. It's a long road. But being passionate is so KEY! :)
Graham, I can't thank you enough for making this video! I've been freelancing for 3 years now mostly recording r&b & hip hop and everything in this video is extreme true! I've gone through all 3 stages and I couldn't agree with you more!
I respect you. This was an eyeopener for me. Thanx. Respect from holland!
This is probably my 3rd time listening to one of your videos, where I had to abruptly pause the video and say thanks! You are a natural teacher/mentor. I come from a family of teachers and professors, and of course musicians, and you have that inviting quality that makes a student like myself comfortable in learning without feeling like an out of place amateur - if that makes sense. I don't feel like a rookie wasting the time of the seasoned vet. Well done!
Thanks Graham! really inspiring video. Right now, I'm on that phase were I'm charging a symbolical amount of money per song recorded and mixed, and we're being hired more and more, and, as you say, I'm investing that money on new gear. So, now that we are offering more services (live drums, quantization, voice tuning, etc...) and after watching this video, I'm more confident about rising fares. Thanks!
PS: MOST of my mixing skills I learnt and experimented with after watching your videos.
Follow ur dream my friend. No one else can stop u but U!. Becoming an Audio Engineer was the best decision ive ever made.
Hi Graham, great videos on your channel thank you.
Here are some reflexion of mine after watching your video:
- I would add that charging people make them more involved in their own project. (crazy no?)
- I Ask half of the bill at the end of the recordind session and second half when I deliver the CD or wave or whatever.
- When you can define a number of hour you need for a project, it suits the budget of the band and help you to organise your work, trying to not pass too much or too less time on it.
I hope these can help.
This is a good video. However charging by the song or project is very dangerous. I think it is better to charge by the hour - but give your client a realistic estimate of the time involved. That way you are in it together, working efficiently (i.e. reasonable numbers of vocal takes if you are recording, or mix tweaks if you are mixing, etc...)
I've been at this full-time for 15 years - so please take my comments as constructive.
Swag Domo I charge by the song with a limit on revisions. It makes the client think about what they really want out of the revision. Then more revisions costs more. It puts an actual value on my skill, not just my time.
I practice this as well much easier to get gigs this way by the hour makes more sense but todays consumers don't really invest that much into themselves. Only my media clients go by the hour because they understand the game. But artist lol good luck
By the hour is all I will ever do now, learned the hard way
This is basically what he said he does, He said, "know your hourly rate...". So you're still charging by the hour based on your estimate of how many hours it will take. It's the same way most other contracting companies operate. All the client knows is he/she is paying per song.
Thank you alot for making this video, Graham. It speaks directly to my heart. Where i'm at and where i'm heading. And that's beyond music. This breakdown is a lesson for life!
/Grayz
Thank you so much for this talk. You made me realize all these fears and uncertainties I've had for so long and I think this applies not only to recording and mixing, but other freelance work too.
You are SO correct on so many levels!! Although I don't really do music production, these are still the same processes I went through. Also, it was quantifiable for me to hear you talk about those who don't want to pay your rates as well-that's how I try to look at it too: Those people just aren't in my 'target demographic'.
The fear is still there with me though somewhat and probably always will.
Thanks for always sharing with the world!
I know you won't read this, but thank you man! This is really helpfull and inspiring
Great message, Graham! I am currently studying Audio Engineering and Recording in Georgia through The Recording Connection based in California. I have really enjoyed your videos and have found them helpful as I'm learning in the studio and reading my lessons. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and philosophy. Cheers!
This was awesome, thank you!!! I'm currently attending CRAS left the comforts of the military pay to pursue this and had been doing the "free" thing for so long before school and I guess fell into the "I'm still not good enough to charge" thing. this helped ALOT to motivate me. Thank you
.... (Contd. from previous post) :
3. The third category of artists/musicians are those who have some momentum with their music career. While they are not signed to a major record label/publisher, these artists have carved out a niche for themselves and are either putting out entirely self funded music or have the backing of indie record label/publisher. Because these artists have some budgets for their projects, they would make a perfect target market for project home studio based mixers/engineers. However, irony is that competition is very fierce in this very limited market space. There is literally 20 studios for 1 project of this nature. And to make things worse, well established major studios have now also started taking share of this market space by offering low priced on-line mixing & mastering services. So any "paying" client will almost always prefer to go with them.
So where does that leave the project home studio producer/engineer/mixer. The Freebie DIY musician market !!
Vocalist / songwriter here.
I’ve hired 6 different music producers
And they all have their strengths.
The reason for so many comes down to different price points, genre specialities because I’m a multi genre songwriter. And over all ,the producer must have a really great portfolio period. I’ve spent 10000 k on music demos, ranging from my vocals to hired session vocalist . ( also knowing diverse session vocalist to sing on your demos can add value)
I started out spending a lot of money on every song . I wised up and found people that are extremely talented and have worked with many known bands that you hear on the radio. I’ve found that a 500.00 to 600.00 for each project is an agreeable price point. I simply let them know that I’m a serious songwriter but gone are the days of me spending thousands of dollars on just one project. Simply because I write a lot of songs, but more importantly decent songs with strong hooks addicting melodies and are always relatable. So in order for me to be able to work with someone they have to know that I’m interested in getting many works completed and to do that , the price point has to be right for my situation. Just some perspective from someone on the other side of the spectrum. Also keeping communication with your clients is so important nothing worse sending an email that doesn’t get a reply for a couple of weeks.
There’s so much more to producing music than the actual act of producing music .
Awesome video! Thanks. I work in a different industry, but I learned a lot from this, and getting over the fear of upping the bracket. Respect
Graham, first of all, thanks for this and the numerous other helpful tidbits you have shared. I listened to this simply because I am currently going through that phase of 'hatemyjobandneedamajorchange' period in my life (I'm 52) and I have been recording since the early 80's with the advent of home recording. A friend from the local pub asked me to record his punk band and asked if I would do it cheap (actually he asked if I'd do it for free but knew better... smart kid) and I decided at first to take the Hells Angels Altamont approach and asked for a case of good beer... then I realized the guy was an electrician... and I need more outlets in my studio and a series of overhead lights... guess what's happening when his CD is finished?
BARTER is a GREAT way to get the things done in your studio that you would have to pay others to do usually. I have a guy who's a carpenter coming in in a few weeks and I need a small section of wall built and a door hung.
What do you think of my solution to the Kobyashi Maru?
PS: I actually got 2 cases of good beer because with both sets of songs (they have 10 altogether) we ran demos and they took home and listened to and wanted to do it again because they thought they could do better (which was refreshing) and they did. Totally worth my time.
don't know why people dislike this video! He's giving solid advice
Charge per hour for recording to put the onus on the artist to show up prepared and get work done. Then charge a flat rate for mixing to put the onus on you to get the post work done quickly.
hey graham I just made my first recording gig and I just wanna say THANK YOU so much , your great videos have help me a lot!!!
1000% agree. I think I've always been pretty business savvy, and he's absolutely right. Sometimes, the presumption of going to people you've developed a relationship with and being up front about the reality of the situation...if you've gone the distance for them in the past, and like you, they'll pay you. In fact, in many instances, they probably think you're worth more than you're planning on charging them.
the only positive audio engineering how to video. thanks dude, you convinced me haha
What can i say....Graham is one of the best teachers i've ever had
Best video on UA-cam!! Thanks!!
Great information man, you just answered the questions I've been asking myself lately and you answered them well. I'm so glad I found your page. Subscribed for life.
Wow i have no words man, this ks exactly what i was looking for, thanks for make thid videos and help upcoming great producers to grow up!
"destroy your fear!" Amen to that! Thanks for all the great info!
The best advice ever giving on this topic. This also helped me in terms of the video side as well when he talked about upgrading to equipment if he was generally speaking.
I had this idea of getting potential clients interested. visiting the music departments of schools like colleges to talk to groups of students about what you do and the importance of having quality audio in tracks. thats something that would get your small business's name out.
Great advice. I would say though that there is a shortage of work out there, especially in the UK and an excess of cheap or free studios/producers, so no matter how tight the business model, its tough to get paid at all. Breaking into the commercial realm, i,e getting regular commercial work form labels requires a particular approach, one as much based on being in with the right people as anything else.
Excellent video it's always a pleasure to listen to Graham speak. Thanks for the inspiration.
If I may offer on the topic of raising rates. I consult a friend of mine who runs their own side business (not music related). I always tell her...
If you're working as much as you want and you have more demand than you can satisfy then increase your rates. Wait six months. If you still have more demand than you can satisfy in the time you want to work, repeat! Keep going until demand starts to dry up.
i remember around 2000-2001 in my audio class i have heard from a teacher "you wanna make money? open a restaurant"
gianluigi dautilia this makes so much sense for the food industry now and days lmao
gianluigi dautilia well people opening studios are doing it for the passion. Not the money.
no offense but that may be the dumbest statement anyone has ever made. Most restaurants fail. No offense to teachers but most of them are failures too and that's why they teach so a lot of times their career advice is poor even if they know some skills.
Great video! This applies to other skills than recording alone. When listening to the main idea, you can get a lot out of it for things like webdesign and other freelance jobs as well. Thanks!
Graham, I can't thank you enough. This is exactly what I needed to learn right now.
Dude this was some real advice. I really appreciate your tone and empathy.
When a project is recorded, mixed, and mastered; as a beginner what is the final format to offer client? when my band was in studio we walked away with CDR version and DAT for the label. I need to know what piece of equipment to get for final version. I'm still in the free phase of my production.
Wow Graham, You always have the most inspirational videos, no matter the subject you are speaking upon. It's like, subconsciously I am aware of some of the points, but you enable me to bring them to my conscious mind and really see what I am at, allowing me to assess my work as a business and really know what it takes to be a success, and how to get there. Thank you for everything you have done for myself and all of us other recording engineers. I feel like even the real pros can learn from you.
This is great! Thank you happy holidays. I used to record on an analog tascam 4 tracks. I have been into it for yrs. met JoeSatriani when i was a kid while he recorded his stratosphere lp on his living room floor on a tascam 4tracks . but still new to pc music so learning is fun. you will never learn everything & you'd be surprised to learn from the newest newbie. I am doing some recordings for free. I do it cause i love musiic. I dont need money nor want glory or fame. so id mix master ppl for free cause i love ppl & music. they go together
A tip for going from step 2 to 3; buy acoustic paneling. Most people have no clue what it actually does but they associate it with professionalism because they saw it on TV.
cant believe it has taken me this long to get this. so inspired
Absolutely great video, thanks so much. Would love to see a video on the microphones you use if possible. I'm studying music production at university so I'm in the fortunate position of getting to use some very expensive microphones. I want to get a bit of a budget setup together for when I leave and could use some recommendations for cheaper mics, rather than just using C414s on everything.
Great video! Music is a hobby for me but i'm a freelance video editor and I've done the same with editing. All the information in this video really applies to just about any business in my opinion.
Im so glad I found your channel! LOADS of valuable information!!
knowledge when shared builds up someone,
and when kept inside just benefits little.
one day i'm sure people in India are gonna have underdog mixing engineers who will say they started of looking at your videos.
now what you are doing is wisdom !!!
thank you graham, i will always remember you !!
God Bless you brother !!!
Great video. Thanks for all the effort you put into helping folks like me learn a thing or two with your videos.
this video has inspired me so much man. i really appreciate what you do on youtube, taking your time to help and motivate us. this video speaks to more than just musicians, im using this to help motivate me to improve my graphic design website. THANKS SO MUCH MAN!!!
Been watching your videos for a long time now, you give great tips!
Have Helped me a ton with my mixes
Thanks for this video! I needed this inspiration!! I'm finally getting paid to do what I passionately spend many hours doing in Logic Pro X. I'm just starting to accept payments for my studio services, you are right it feels like your making progress towards your Dream of doing this Full Time. 👣💪🏾
Dealing with your client before, during, and after you've done work on their mix. Giving them the time and attention so that you can give them the best result possible. Making sure that they know what they are paying for and that they're happy with the end result. When recording, catering to the musician and their artistic vision, keeping them updated if it is a big project and being upfront and honest with them
This really helps....ive been recording for a while now and this gives me a few tips to move on.......THANKS MAN!
Definitely a great set of tips. Thank you so much!
Oh & I use a Roland VS 1680 w/Event 20/20 Mon. some Tube pre's Headphone Amp a Snake a PV mixer, AKG D-112 & C-1000's SM57's CAD mic's Audiotechnia 4033, I've done FM Radio commercial's ,Blues bands, Rock/Metal, One Rap artist I won't do that again for any money lol, & did some remastering for a BlueGrass band,All I got paid for.Know yer Gear understand EQ&compression 1st & foremost I started using a Radio shack mic & dubbing on a 2chn Cass deck, I made it work. Just do it & never stop learning
As always, Great info. I'm getting my studio up and rolling. In the past I was using SIAB but now have a Mac with PT11. This is quite an advancement for me. I will be working on familiarizing myself first and then for free until I can gain a good bit of experience. Its a little intimidating with the current software, plugins, Interfaces, and never mind proper learned technique while navigating around it all with ease. We are full speed ahead though. Hey, thanks a lot for the tips!
You hit all the right points with this video. Awesome job!
Amazing video by the way, I hope to see you in a big studio one day like the pros cause for me, you are one of the best!
This is great advice, definitely helped me think about it the way I needed to...thanks again Graham! :)
this is great advise my friend . dont be afraid to work with other people and keep an open mind.
Muchas Gracias, me quedé pensando en todo lo que comentaste en este video porque precisamente es por lo que estoy pasando ahora mismo, en hacer más valiosa cada presentación. Para así poder grabar mi disco por mi cuenta. Thank you Graham!!
Very very encouraging video !! I plan to start charging too simply because it took my skills and my TIME !! Thank you !!
Very good video, you're a genius man! Really respect your work.
Thanks for everything.
This is good education on working in the creative industry. Much appreciated 😀
The country I live in, is presently going through a trend where none of the new bands / artists are willing to pay a reasonable amount for good recording, they seem to be interested in the cheapest option available and it creates a big problem for those who have a quality studio and a promise for quality in the recorded stuff... what would your suggestion be for that kind of a scenario ...?
Graham, please tell - is there any sense to work for mics, which give you opportunity to record drums of local rock band. When you can open any DAW and create all kinds of drum lines you couldnt even imagine? Add million boosts using plugins of rack extentions. And finally to get an ear candy. Or to buy 7 mics to record just a drums set?
bro everytime i begin to think im crazy i see a video of yours to get less panick attacks. music business is so scary, thanks!!!!
Thanks so much for this video! I've been trying to get paid for this for a while now with no luck and if you are correct. I didn't do nearly enough free work to build up somewhat of a reputation. At this point i'm thinking I may as well try this approach
This video was great thanks. I think I’m on step 2 I been recording music for my brother for about a year and a half and now I that I’m getting better I feel like I should start charging a small amount. I’m thinking maybe $50 a song.
Thank you so muc, all of your videos so far have been awesome inspiration. Now I'm going to get to work.
You actually answered all of my questions I had. Great job! :) Thank you
You'd also be amazed by how much even just a 5x5 foot tapestry/blanket/flag/whatever on the ceiling will do.
get some sm57s and a sm7b. Relatively cheap but great multi-use dynamic microphones.
Thank you Graham! We're hanging on to your every word! :)