In this post, we’ll discuss the various roles involved in a recording and how to define them. If you missed Part One, you can click here to read it.
Long before Annalee recorded her album, she was very clear about defining everyone’s roles. This helped reduce pressure for everyone involved, allowing them to focus on their specific tasks without confusion or stress. It’s always best to have people contribute in areas where they are proficient or experts.
Here are the roles we defined for this particular recording. While one person could wear all of these hats, or two people might share them, it’s common for multiple people to handle these tasks, particularly in large-budget projects. The important thing is that the roles are clear, as they help mark the beginning and end of each phase of the process.
Common Roles in a Recording:
Songwriter(s):
If the project consists of original material, the songwriter has the final say in the songwriting decisions. While they may be open to feedback, it’s crucial to have one trusted person to help make those final decisions. Too many opinions can prevent a project from moving forward (see Part One for more on this).
Arranger:
Arranging a song for recording is a key step. As Norah Jones once said, a great recording can be made simply by arranging the songs well. Arranging doesn’t always mean adding new elements like horn or string parts, but rather fine-tuning the structure—adjusting the length of sections, the order of verses, choruses, solos, and interludes. A great arrangement can transform an average song into a standout track. Done poorly, however, it can make a great song fall flat.
Producer:
A producer wears many hats in the recording process. Although many artists or band members may initially feel they don’t need a producer, the producer helps everyone focus on their role and allows the project to run smoothly. They can help with technical issues, translate artistic visions, and ensure the project stays on time and within budget. Producers are also crucial during the mixing and mastering stages.
Musicians:
Finding the right musicians is key to bringing your vision to life. Recording requires a different approach than live performance, so make sure the musicians are well-rehearsed and familiar with the material. A producer should be involved in rehearsals to ensure everything sounds right for the recording.
Engineer:
The engineer is responsible for getting the best sound during the recording process. It’s important to hire an engineer with experience in the style of music you’re recording. They set up mics, adjust sounds, and troubleshoot any technical issues.
Editors:
Editors play a crucial role, especially with the advent of computer recording software. They listen to all the takes, selecting the best sections and performances to create the final version of the track.
Mix Engineer:
The mix engineer takes the edited tracks and combines them into a cohesive stereo mix. This process is creative in its own right, and the artist should have input to ensure the final mix aligns with their vision.
Mastering Engineer:
Mastering involves taking the final mix and ensuring it’s polished, balanced, and ready for release. The mastering engineer makes subtle changes to ensure the track sounds consistent with others in its genre, preparing it for radio or digital distribution.
Visual Artist:
The cover art for your project plays an important role in attracting listeners. The artwork should complement the music and provide a visual representation of the project.
Publicist:
A publicist helps your music get exposure through radio, magazine reviews, blogs, and other media. While they can be expensive, a good publicist can expand your audience far beyond friends, family, and existing fans. Research publicists who fit your project and budget.