RECORDING CHECKLIST

GETTING SHIT DONE

☐ Practice – Practice your songs and then practice them again. No really, did you practice?

☐ Lyrics – Does your song have words? Do you know them? If not, bring a copy.

☐ Click Tracks - if you plan on using one in session, practice and know the tempo of each song.

☐ Reference Mixes – for those who already have a general sound in mind.

☐ Communicate – discuss your ideal sound with the studio and engineer to ensure a good fit.

☐ Rest – be well rested before the session, you’ll thank me later.

☐ Show Up – mark your calendars and set reminders so you arrive on time and ready to go.

☐ Guitar/Bass – have new strings, picks, cables, batteries and electronics in good working order.

☐ Amps/Speaker Cabinets – bring ‘em unless you’ve made arrangements to use the studio’s gear.

☐ Drums – bring extra sticks, new heads and spares, oil pedals to eliminate squeaks.

☐ Gear – such as effects pedals, tuners, patch cables, synthesizers or keyboards, etc.

☐ Headphones – studios have ‘em but if you have a pair you love bring ‘em.

☐ Food/Refreshments – check with the studio to see if anything is provided or allowed.

☐ Relax – recording is fun! It’s possible to get shit done and still have a good time.

☐ PMA – keep it positive and support your band mates during the session.

☐ Respect – respect the studio and don’t be a slob. Pick up after yourselves.

☐ Breaks – step away every few hours to rest your ears and reset your perspective.

☐ Listen – pay attention to playbacks. Avoid distractions such as phones, etc.

☐ Be Constructive – talk to your engineer and make your opinions count. It’s your recording.

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