…get the most out of a collaborative writing or production session

Sometimes even the most organic musical collaborations can benefit from a methodical approach

IT’S EASIER THAN it’s ever been to make music on your own from the comforts of your home studio without any input from outside sources. More affordable gear, a huge array of video learning resources and online mastering have all made it possible to create full albums without ever stepping outside of your bedroom. While this is great for many music-makers, it also robs us of the joy that making music with others brings. Music has been a collaborative art form and activity since the beginning of humankind and there’s a certain joy that comes with it that is not as easy to replicate on your own. With that in mind, let’s look at some ways to get the most out of a collaboration, whether you’re working with another producer, writing with another songwriter, or simply building something with another instrumentalist from the ground up.

Go in with a plan

The first thing to keep in mind is that communication is key. Even if music can inherently be something that doesn’t need discussion – simply pick up your instruments and go – it helps to be on the same page with your collaborator from the get-go. Decide what the goals are and what each person’s role will be in advance. Decide what you’re trying to accomplish, even if that simply means you’re deciding to improvise together.

MAKE IT A POINT TO BE READY AND HAVE YOUR STUDIO READY BEFORE THE ARTIST SHOWS UP

If you’re working with an artist in the role of a producer or a songwriter for hire, you’re going to want to decide in advance if there is a fee involved. There’s nothing worse than thinking you’re getting paid for your creative efforts and then finding out that the artist you’re working with assumed you were donating your time. Take the time to write up a contract that the artist signs, even if the only fee is that you are properly credited. Do this even if you are friends with the artist, just to be safe. Your reputation is important, and you are probably hoping that your invested time will bring future work. Credit is how that happens.

If you’re producing an artist, especially someone who you don’t have a previous relationship with, make it a point to be ready and have your studio ready before the artist even shows up. Set up microphones, make sure every piece of gear is working. Have your studio in tip-top shape before any collab sessions. You don’t want a paying client sitting around waiting while you fiddle with your patchbay.

Similarly, listen to and research the artist’s previous releases and recordings. Try to find live videos of them if you can. Read interviews with the artist to understand them better. All of this won’t replace good direct communication but it can help you be more prepared.

Space for ideas

It’s also incredibly important to create an environment where the artist feels safe and is willing to take risks. Find a way to make suggestions without criticising. Your body language is just as important as what you say. Artists are often sensitive souls and can shut down with even the hint of negative language. This is the last thing you want as a producer. Get to know the artist a bit before you even start working, don’t just jump right into it: you’re creating art together, not running a business.

Lastly, it’s helpful to decide in advance if you want to bring in other instrumentalists or vocalists, and have a list of people ready if you do decide to. Again, this is going to speed up the process as you start working. Similarly, decide in advance if you’re going to be the one mixing the track as well, or just producing it and handing it off to someone else to mix.