How Much is Too Much?

How much is Too Much?

 

Last week, I was working with an amazing talent (cindycampo.com) for the TV show I score.  I was thrust back into the role of vocal music producer which I have not done in quite some time.  I noticed two things immediately about how I’ve changed since I made the switch from pop to TV and film.

 

One, Its all in the song.  Sure I try to write pretty hooks with melodies that inspire the watcher, but really, if I go too overboard it conflicts with what’s on the screen.  When doing pop, rock, country, name your pleasure, it’s the song!  Cindy came down with two killer country/crossover/pop songs and tracking them reminded me that its all in the song.  If you can break it down to an acoustic and vocal, or a piano and vocal, and not add any other orchestration, you know you have a hit on your hands.

 

I added layers, chorus on the guitar, EQ’ed the hell out of the backups, but to no avail.  Everyone liked the original rough mix!

 

Even though I’ve done this thing for years and years, I am still reminded that I have a lot to learn about music production.  Sometimes its not how much you add, but more…what you add.

 

 

Best

Jack