Recording Session Workflow

While there are no guidelines that are set in stone in regards to the workflow of a recording session, there is a basic order that most artists and engineers follow.

Pre-Production

Usually set in a smaller studio, this session is where the artist may write his/her lyrics if the mood is right and lay down the vocals. The base of the song may also be constructed and scratch tracks are made for the artists to follow when tracking.

Tracking

Speaking of tracking, after the pre-production, the artist will usually put together a rough mix of the song. Vocals are usually not performed here unless for scratch tracks, as a tracking session is for the musicians to lay the instrumental tracks and give the producer a feel for what the song will sound like. Vocals are usually scheduled for a separate session.

Overdub

This session is used when adding new parts or replacing parts of a song. If a musician were having a bad day during the tracking session, the overdub session would be his redemption to get everything perfect.

Comping

This session is when the single track is created. Prior, numerous tracks were recorded and now the producer/mixer takes the best parts of those tracks and glues them together to create one beautiful track of music.

Mixing

This is the mixer's time to shine. He/She may use their creative talent to add or take away effects and elements to the song in this session. All elements of the song are mixed down into a final mix, which will be used for the tape/CD.

Recall

Some studios and producers will hold a recall session to go over the final mixes and add whatever they feel is missing to the final mix. Voices are the focus in a recall session and it usually doesn't last very long if held.

Well, there you go. These are the basic sessions that are held in a studio when putting together professional music. Although it's not as easy as one might think and can mean very long hours and nights, the recording session is always filled with surprises and fun.