As far as I can remember I have always had a deep love and passion for music. I may be a hip hop/ R&B producer/artist/writer, but I have always appreciated and valued all genres of music. I have always said “If it sounds good than it sounds good” and personally don’t feel like music should be segregated nor should one limit themselves to a particular genre for whatever reason.
While taking part in the production/creation side of music I have encountered several individuals who have certain methods and rules when it comes to creating there music and they criticize any other way. These people are insecure bullies who like to talk ‘techy’ and call out serial numbers on gadgets because they probably are lacking in some other department or they are impressed as hell as to what you are doing and how you can do what they do, without all the money and equipment. Lucky for me I have met just as many big time producers and accredited artists who were real enough to say that there is no right way or wrong way when it comes to creating music, as long as it is fueled by passion. The truth is everyone has there own way and all the great artists and composers have there own unique steps in regards to there creative process. Greatness in anything starts with believing in your self and acknowledging your strengths.
The intent of this article is to encourage those who have been side tracked or slowed down because of intimidation. If you met someone who made you feel like you need to have a million dollars to make a dream come true or that you can’t do something without ‘blah blah blah’, then this is the wake up call you need. Yes, money and equipment help can make life easier but creativity costs a lot less and the sky is the limit when you are fully engaged. Recording artists have been recording in closets, rooms full of mattresses, dirty garages etc to give the same sound you can achieve in a million dollar studio. I am not taking anything away from those amazing studios’ and talented engineers because they are great and can make life easier, but once again if you are creative you can bypass all that $h!t for lack of a better word. If you are laying down rap vocals on a Wave File from a beat you made electronically on a computer, you have absolutely no business being in a state of the art studio where they record symphonies and choirs unless you have a good connection or a bottomless pit of money. It’s not that you don’t belong there its simply that you just don’t need it!
I have seen so many people, including myself, waste years in trying to save up for the next piece of equipment or save money to shoot a video … all while precious time is just being wasted. You should never rush anything but at the same time you should never deprive the world if your music is ready. Do not get me twisted, you should approach every situation with an open mind and one should be able to handle criticism especially in the music industry, however you should not give anyone the power to plant the seed of doubt in your head. Keep it real with your music and be creative. Because real people relate to real things. Don’t cater to the crowd. Do you and let the crowd catch on. If you want the money and fame and you are willing to sell out and become a cookie cutter artist these words are not for you.
This is for those who have written songs in there darkest moments where there ability to write lyrics or create music has pulled them through tough times. I personally don’t care for money or fame, my dream is to give back to music which has given me so much, even if it is just one album and the only buyers are family and friends. In conclusion when it comes to the art of making music we all need to remember it is indeed an art and there is no right or wrong way to do anything. Can you imagine someone telling Leonardo da Vinci how to paint the Mona Lisa?…. I didn’t think so. I would be a hypocrite to tell you that my article is %100 right because it goes against everything I have written. This is just my opinion based on my experiences. I am simply encouraging you to do you, and be confident with your personal approach and style. You have all the power you believe you have. One.
