Thus, on the verge of recording, they must wear, or choose someone to wear the cap called “producer”. The producer’s job is to keep the song on course as it navigates the recording process, so it begins by asking the hard questions:

What is the essence of the song?

What is its style?

What is its structure and flow?

Are there definable parts, like chorus, verses, and bridges, and where do they begin/end?

What/who are the instruments and do they uphold the essence of the song?

These definitions guide the recording process, providing the producer (me, in this case) with a strong sense of the song so recording sessions run efficiently. The more people involved, the more creative energies there are to direct. Direction is key. Without it, my sessions would be a waste.

The production process tends to submerge a song into the sea of hands who all want a part in its journey-changing it for the better or destroying its true nature. That’s why I’m inviting you, the listener, to be apart of my songs; but I’d like to show you how to listen, in hopes that you will better appreciate all music.
A recording is a captured moment-and unlike a live performance, cannot draw upon the energies of others–so let that moment be what it is, and let its effect on you be known.

Motif’s Guide to Song Critique. Best if Used Immediately After Listening.

Tell me about the music video….any other visuals?

Would you give the song a second listen? If no, why not?

First impressions are stains that rarely lift, but an open listener knows that art evolves. Your critique allows these songs to develop and grow, so let it be constructive, and let it desire the best for the song. Remember that roughs are not perfect and I do not boast exceptional vocal nor instrumental talent. I’m really looking for whether or not the song’s emotion rings true within you. Feel free to add any other information you deem helpful, so long that it is specific and personal.

Though I ran my songs through this first phase of production, I realize that not all decisions are final, especially when they’re still labeled “rough”. So dig in, if you please, and try out motif music from the producer’s chair. Ask yourself to be precise in your response–remember, without a specific direction, we’re no closer to our destination of a final recording! Motif’s ongoing creativity loves your support! Thanks for it!

p.s. Lyrics are always helpful references for producers. I like to print them out and write on them. If you find inconsistencies in what you hear and what you read, let me know!

Emotion is our reaction to the world we experience through our senses.  If our emotion is passionate, we speak, or yell, sing, or sob, depending on the emotion. We understand what these sounds mean, just as the tribes knew what their chants meant. As it gains meaning and feeling, sound becomes song, especially in nature.

The world around us is not quiet, even in the most far off places, because life does not reside solely under the skin, but in nature’s interactions: the “plop” of a nut as it falls into a pond, the symphony of raindrops on a lake, wind’s movement through tree leaves, the screech of cricket wings at night…these are nature’s song!

Song is an expression of sounds that have a beginning and end, and it still communicates emotion. What we consider “song” today traveled a long road, from ancient times when people listened and sang to nature, through strict religious purposes, to entertainment (and its business) as we know it today.

As humanity developed, we structured our traditions and ideas, giving them names (“song”), categories (“music”), and form (“iambic pentameter”). When we started writing with these structures in mind, we built a stereotype for song, which is probably why most of us think tribal chants sound like noise. Go figure, right?

Today, try opening your mind to all of life’s song. Don’t hear it as noise, but as nature’s melody in your ears! Who knows, you might like it…