Inside The Mix | Music Production and Mixing Tips for Music Producers and Artists

Forget what you know about mastering music... Have you ever wondered: can I master my music or can I master music at home? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics: mastering music fundamentals, the basic steps of mastering, what is the use of mastering, what is mastering a song, or maybe just what is mastering music. Then check out EP 143 of the Inside The Mix podcast.Unlock the mysteries of home studio mastering with the guidance of Eric Mitchell from Eric Mitchell Audio—your personal mentor ...

38 mins

Have you ever wondered how you prepare a project for mixing? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics on how to get tracks ready for mixing, how to prepare for a mixing session or maybe you want to know how to prepare stems for mixing in Logic Pro, then check out EP 142 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Embark on a sonic adventure with me as I unlock the secrets to impeccable pre-production and mix preparation for all you synthpop enthusiasts out there. Imagine having a meticulously organised Logic Pro session, with every track colour-coded and grouped, your control bar customised, and reference tracks at the ready to ensure your mix is nothing short of stellar. That's what I'm offering—a guided tour through the setup that'll transform your workflow and a free mixing template to boot! Listen closely as I narrate the steps to creating a seamless mixing experience that's as smooth as the synth lines in your favourite pop hit. Ever wondered about the wizardry behind those cohesive yet distinct layers in a synthpop masterpiece? That's where the magic of understanding groups and subgroups comes into play. I'll dissect these concepts, explaining how groups can manage collective volume without upsetting individual track outputs, and how subgroups work like a charm for applying shared effects while keeping fader movements independent. It's a masterclass in balance and sonic texture, ensuring your productions hit that sweet spot where every beat, bassline, and synth shimmer with clarity and punch. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting, this episode is your ticket to levelling up your Logic Pro mix game. Grab your FREE Logic Pro Synthpop Mixing Template! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to finish more tracks in less time, without sacrificing quality? Download your FREE Logic Pro Synthpop Mixing Template: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/free Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

14 mins

Forget everything you know... Do you want to know how to promote your music? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics on how to get your music noticed, how to promote your own music on social media, how to get into the music industry, how is AI used in the music industry, or maybe you just want to know how to market your music. Then check out EP 141 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Prepare to navigate the shifting sands of digital music marketing with Jesse Kirshbaum, the creative force behind agency Nue, guiding us through the evolving terrain. This episode promises a treasure trove of insights on how independent artists can thrive amidst the rise of AI and the transformation of streaming platforms. Jesse's expertise illuminates the path for musicians to forge authentic connections, broaden their influence, and capitalize on the amateur artist revolution that's redistributing power in the industry. We also delve into the intricate dance between music and branding. I chat with Jesse about the importance of artists maintaining their core identity while weaving their stories into partnerships with brands. From the unexpected resurgence of bands like Creed to practical tips on aligning with companies that resonate with your values, we uncover the nuanced strategies that can amplify an artist's presence. Jesse shares how these collaborations can be more than just deals; they can be a harmonious extension of an artist's narrative. Wrapping up with a jaunt away from industry talk, we share our enthusiasm for Miami's winter allure and the potential for digital nomadism. We discuss the magnetic pull of creative meetups and the enriching experiences of travel. It's an invitation to explore the geographic and musical landscapes that shape our world, one beat at a time. So, tune in and get ready to march to the rhythm of innovation and connection. CLICK HERE to follow Jesse Kirshbaum: http://nueagency.com/ Grab your FREE Producer Growth Scorecard! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to stop procrastinating and release more music? Download your FREE Producer Growth Scorecard: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/scorecard Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

37 mins

Have you ever wondered how you make two guitars sound good together? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics: how do I get my guitar to sit in the mix, how do you mix rhythm guitars or even just how do you mix guitar properly? Then check out EP 140 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Fresh from the sunny yet treacherous beaches of Westwood Ho! in North Devon, I've learned that the only thing more painful than a wicked sunburn is a distorted guitar that just won't sit right in the mix. In my latest Inside the Mix podcast episode, I recount this amusingly painful holiday anecdote before pivoting to some serious music production magic. I’m spilling the beans on my go-to method for giving your distorted rhythm guitars a presence that slices through the mix like a hot knife through butter, all harnessed within the powerhouse that is Logic Pro. By deftly manipulating an auxiliary send with a dash of compression and a sprinkle of console EQ, I promise you’ll be hearing your guitars like never before. Dive into the gamified world of my Producer Growth Scorecard and discover how turning the dials on your music production process can ramp up your creativity and output. Grab your FREE Producer Growth Scorecard! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to stop procrastinating and release more music? Download your FREE Producer Growth Scorecard: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/scorecar Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

10 mins

Have you ever wondered if AI can mix and master music? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics: what the term mastering refers to, what is normalisation, what does Spotify normalisation do, the best AI mastering, is there AI for music production, is there an AI bot for music, can AI make music, or maybe even can AI make my song sound better? Then check out EP 139 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Prepare to be enthralled as the exceptionally skilled Ian Stewart and I lift the veil on the future of music production with the advent of AI-assisted mastering. We venture into the world where artificial intelligence shapes the sounds that move us, touching on the nuances of genre recognition and the potential shifts in the music industry's landscape. As we converse, Ian's expertise shines, offering an intriguing perspective on the complex relationship between AI advancements and human creativity, while also sharing indispensable tips for mastering with the aid of AI, ensuring audio engineers and enthusiasts alike can harness the full potential of these cutting-edge tools. The ethical conundrum of AI-generated music on streaming platforms takes centre stage as we confront the implications for artist royalties and the inherent human desire to create. We navigate the delicate balance between technology's role in automating routine tasks and the potential for AI to introduce innovative forms of ambience and engagement—imagine your very own personalised concentration playlist, crafted by an intelligent algorithm. This thought-provoking discussion not only dissects the ethical implications but also delves into how AI might support the undercurrent of artists fighting for visibility in the streaming era. In our final act, we unravel the intricacies of mastering for optimal sound quality, where my revelation about the impact of subtle gain adjustments sets the stage for a broader conversation on the art of mastering. We challenge the current paradigms of loudness normalisation and debate the merits of album versus track normalisation, all in service of preserving the artist's vision. Ian and I also demystify the technicalities behind using reference tracks and navigating loudness measurements, ultimately guiding you towards making your music resonate powerfully in the tangible world. Join us for this illuminating journey through the harmonious blend of technology and artistry in audio mastering. CLICK HERE to follow Ian Stewart: https://www.flotownmastering.com   DISCOVER what's the best music streaming service for you in 2024? CLICK HERE to learn more about the AES Symposium on AI and the Musician: Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

54 mins

Have you ever wondered how do you identify your ideal client? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics: how do I identify my ideal client profile, what is a target audience, how to find your target audience, how do I know my music genre, what is my genre of music? Then check out EP 138 of the Inside The Mix podcast. In this episode, I  tackle the burning question from listener FastEddy856 on how independent music producers can juggle the marketing maze across multiple genres. With over ten years of industry wisdom tucked under my belt, I'm laying out a roadmap for you to pinpoint your niche and stand out in the crowded music marketplace. Follow along as I trailblaze through the strategies that work. Get ready to amplify your music and your brand with the insights from today's episode, and don't forget to check out FastEddy856's journey on Instagram for some real-time inspiration! Submit a music production or mixing question and feature on the podcast: https://www.speakpipe.com/InsideTheMixPodcast CLICK HERE to follow FastEddy856: @fasteddy856 Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

14 mins

Have you ever wondered if AI can mix and master music? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics: the best AI mastering, is there AI for music production, is there an AI bot for music, can AI make music, or maybe even can AI make my song sound better? Then check out EP 137 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Unlock the secrets of blending traditional music mastery with the innovative force of AI as I engage with the Grammy-nominated wizard of sound, Jonathan Wyner. This episode is an audio trove for the sonically curious, as we dissect the mechanics behind AI's role in music production. You'll be privy to Jonathan's insights on the symbiotic relationship between AI and the human touch, deciphering the fine line where technology meets artistry. Feel the pulse of music evolution with our deep dive into the world of mastering technology and AI-driven mixing services. The conversation takes an unexpected turn into the realm of audio element separation, where the once-impenetrable harmonies now lay bare before us, thanks to AI's ever-advancing reach. We get candid about the consequences of this accessibility boom, from the opacity of an AI's decision-making process to the brave new world where automated mixing platforms are already a reality. As we wrap up, we address the elephant in the room: the nuanced challenges AI encounters in the mastering labyrinth, from grasping an artist's unique vision to the dynamic soul of music itself. We open the floor to a discussion on AI bias in music tech, setting the stage for the forthcoming AES Symposium on AI and the Musician in Boston. For anyone navigating the crossroads of DIY versus professional mastering, this episode is a beacon, illuminating the path to finding your sound in the age of AI. CLICK HERE to follow Jonathan Wyner: https://college.berklee.edu/faculty/jonathan-wyner CLICK HERE to learn more about the AES Symposium on AI and the Musician: https://aes2.org/events-calendar/aes-international-symposium-on-ai-and-the-musician/ Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

45 mins

If you are looking for mixing tips on topics like how to mix multiple guitars, how to get my guitar to sit in the mix, where should the guitar be panned in a mix, how can I make my guitar sound more interesting, or maybe even just how do you make an instrument stand out in a mix. Then check out EP 136 of the Inside The Mix podcast where horror synth/dark synth/synth metal music producer VYLT joins me for a Producer Kickstart Strategy Session. CLICK HERE, to book a Producer Kickstart Strategy Session: https://tidycal.com/inside-the-mix-podcast/producer-kickstart Step into the shadowy realm of horror synth as I catch up with the enigmatic VYLT, Singapore's witchy wave maestro. Whether you're a producer looking to refine your mix or a fan of spine-tingling dark synth, you'll gain insider knowledge on mixing low-end frequencies and the alchemy of EQ and compression to bring out the soul in guitar tracks. Horror meets harmony as we explore the technical labyrinth of music production. Learn the secrets behind the perfect mix, understand the context of each track and avoid the pitfalls of overzealous EQ that can haunt your final product. I also dissect the virtues of natural band-pass filtering and debate the merits of recording guitars through an amp versus a simulator. This episode peels back the layers of distortion, compression, and dynamic preservation, giving you the tools to craft audio that maintains the natural essence of sound while fitting perfectly into your musical incantation. Finally, I reveal a trove of creative production tricks that could be your secret weapon. Imagine your double-tracked guitars not just doubling, but towering over your mix with an unexpected auxiliary send trick. I cover the spectrum from panning to centred signals, and manual automation, and celebrate the philosophy of sound: if it's cool, it's the rule. And before the spirits of inspiration fade, I spotlight VYLT Viola's latest track release, a testament to the power of embracing the unique and the unknown in music production. CLICK HERE, to listen to VYLT: https://linktr.ee/vyltmusic CLICK HERE, to listen to MANIFESTO (VYLT Remix): https://vylt.fanlink.tv/manifesto-vylt-remix Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

27 mins

Have you ever wondered what the term mastering refers to? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics: mastering music fundamentals, mastering vs mixing, the best AI mastering, or maybe just what is mastering a song. Then check out EP 135 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Step into the studio with me, as I sit down with Baltimore's own Mat Leffler-Schulman, a mastering maestro with a knack for bringing colours to sound through his unique chromasthesia. In a symphony of advice and anecdotes, we address the myths clinging to the shadows of the mastering world, shedding a bright light on the truths behind that elusive professional polish. DIY producers take note as Matt guides us through the maze of mastering, pointing out the pitfalls to dodge and sharing the secret ingredients for a masterful mix. The harmony between artist and engineer underscores our next movement, where the feedback loop becomes our guiding melody. Here, we underscore the importance of protecting our most valuable asset: our hearing. We contemplate the shift towards softer live venues, and I share my reflections from a thought-provoking discussion with Elaine Rassnick about the nuances of headphone mastering. It's a conversation that resonates with the care and craftsmanship that goes into nurturing a sound that stays true to the artist's vision. Our final act explores the burgeoning role of AI in the music production landscape, juxtaposed with the irreplaceable human touch that a seasoned engineer like Matt brings to the table. With a backdrop of neural networks and auditory algorithms, we consider how tools like Ozone's mastering feature can serve as a complement to—not a replacement for—the experienced ear. For those intrigued by the cerebral symphony of synesthesia or the enigma of sudden skill acquisitions, this episode offers a crescendo of insight. Follow the vibrancy of Matt's journey and learn from his mastery—because in music production, as in life, the human element sings the loudest. Click here to follow Mat: https://matlefflerschulman.com Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

46 mins

Have you ever wondered if AI can master my music? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics: the best AI mastering, is there an AI that can mix songs, is there AI for music production, can I AI make music, can AI make my song sound better, or maybe even is AI-generated music legal?  Then check out EP 134 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Join me for a riveting discussion with Bobby Owsinski, music production guru and educator, as we dissect the role of AI in today's music scene. Bobby demystifies the jargon and sheds light on how AI is shaping the way we create, refine, and promote music. From the potential of AI to serve as a digital muse to the transformative powers of automated audio mastering, we cover it all. His insights navigate us through the complexities of new-age music production, where AI meets creativity—providing foundational support while leaving room for the human touch to add depth and nuance. Venturing further into the AI realm, Bobby and I tackle the notion of AI-generated music, examining its current limitations and possibilities. Can AI-composed melodies stand toe-to-toe with the intricate works of human artists? We grapple with issues from generic patterns to the emulation of complex genres and vocal licensing. Plus, we don't shy away from addressing the elephant in the room—copyright dilemmas in the AI era. For anyone curious about the future of AI in music and the legal labyrinth that it implies, this conversation offers an enlightening perspective. As the episode comes to a crescendo, we explore AI's capacity to balance and refine tonal quality with tools like Gullfoss and Hornet's Sleek. While examining their potential to change the standard workflow in music production, we remain grounded, recognising the irreplaceable value of human expertise. As I say goodbye to Bobby, I encourage you to discover the breadth of his knowledge on his website, which is a goldmine for anyone looking to keep a finger on the pulse of music production's digital transformation. Tune in for a symphony of insights where technology and artistry harmonize in the evolving world of music. Click here to follow Bobby Owsinski: https://bobbyowsinski.com/ Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

51 mins

Have you ever been frustrated with how to get better at producing music? Maybe you're seeking answers to topics on how to become a better music producer, how to create a workflow, how to become a better songwriter, or even how to release more music. Then check out EP 133 of the Inside The Mix podcast. Join me and discover the power of a finely-tuned workflow, with DAW templates and organisation strategies that promise to streamline your creative process and supercharge your music production output. This episode isn't just about looking back; it's also about crafting the future of your music. From the embryonic loop to the complexity of full-blown tracks, I'll guide you through evolving your musical sketches into rich, layered compositions. Embrace the method of revisiting past works with fresh ears and discover how an 'inspiration playlist' can be your secret weapon against the dreaded creative block. Dive into my Producer Growth Scorecard challenge to experience how gamification can turn your music production and songwriting sessions into a high-score chase that's both fun and productive. Grab your FREE Producer Growth Scorecard! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to stop procrastinating and release more music? Download your FREE Producer Growth Scorecard: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/scorecard Send me a Message Support the Show. ► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ► Grab your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering TODAY! ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ Are you READY to enhance your music with my steadfast dedication to quality and personal touch? Bag your FREE Test Master at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/mastering Buy me a COFFEE ✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸ If you like what I do, buy me a coffee so I can create more amazing content for you: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/marcjmatthews Send a DM through IG @insidethemicpodcast Email me at marc@synthmusicmastering.com Thanks for listening & happy producing!

15 mins