Between getting a fever unexpectedly at a doctor's office and pushing my car down the highway after running out of gas, this last week has been a roller coaster. I set new intentions this new moon to push forward with my single. After using ChatGPT to try to mix my own song, I got some feedback and opted to hire a professional. I'm super excited to share this next single with folks. Here's what I've learned.

Audio Engineering and Artificial Intelligence

Can I save money on mixing and just use AI?

I've leveraged tools that claim to mix and master my song, like Bandlab and others. With my latest single, I asked ChatGPT to give me recommendations for each instrument. It gave me EQ, compression, reverb, delay, and other recommendations tailored to each instrument. Here's an example of what it provided for mixing a surdo de samba, an essential drum in samba music:

Recording Quality: Start with a high-quality recording using appropriate microphones.
Track Organization: Label and group your surdo track with other percussion instruments.
EQ Settings: Apply a low-cut filter around 20-30 Hz, boost low frequencies between 60-100 Hz, slightly reduce the midrange, and enhance the attack around 2-5 kHz.
Compression: Use gentle compression with a low ratio (around 2:1 or 3:1), slow attack, and medium release.
Reverb: Apply a small amount of room or plate reverb with short decay.
Panning: Center the surdo in the mix or adjust slightly if you have multiple tracks.
Layering: Carefully layer multiple surdo tracks to enhance rhythm without causing phase issues.
Volume Balance: Ensure the surdo sits well with other instruments, especially percussion.
Automation: Automate volume and effects to emphasize parts of the song.
Reference Tracks: Use professionally mixed samba music as references.
Final Check: Listen on different speakers and headphones to ensure balance.

Here's a version with my ChatGPT-instructed settings: Bandlab Mix.

First of all, I loved the process, and I think everyone should go through this with their songs to learn. This took a lot of the scariness out of the process and replaced it with respect for professionals who do this for a living.

Lessons Learned

Adjusting Vocals: Depending on where I listened (computer, phone, car), my vocals felt missing or too loud. It sounds different on each device, so don’t limit yourself to one.
Experimenting with Amps: Trying out different amps on my voice was fun and enlightening. Some were good, some bad, and some hilarious. It's a great way to learn.
Learning the DAW: Using ChatGPT helped me understand mixing and my DAW more effectively. I learned about volume automation, applying effects, and the importance of each track needing compression, EQ, reverb, etc.
Gaining Respect for the Process: It takes time and experience. I saw similarities between mixing in a DAW and my 15 years behind a church soundboard. It felt like coming home.
Understanding Instrumental Tracks: I learned why my instrumentalists sent tracks the way they did and picked up more terminology for future songs.
Importance of Reference Tracks: Mixing can go in countless directions. Having a clear vision and reference tracks is crucial.

Ultimately, I wanted confidence in the end product. As we speak, a professional is mixing the final version of "Shades Of You." He's worked with Stevie Nicks, U2, and more, and I found him on Soundbetter.com. I'll be comparing his mix to mine, learning even more in the process.

Should You Save Money by Mixing Yourself?

If you have more than a handful of instruments (over 30 tracks in my case), I'd recommend hiring a professional. It takes a lot of time and effort, and for something you're proud of, it's worth the investment. Do your own mixing side by side, though. If it takes you 200 songs to learn enough to mix yourself, you have to start with the first one.

How Much Is It?

I received proposals anywhere from $200 - $650. I'd ask how many revisions you would get, if they provide an instrumental mix for sync licensing, and ask for references. You can also ask them to mix a portion of your track before you signup for the full mix. Let them know if you've done audio tuning and comping already if you have. Also prices can range based on tracks so let them know how many tracks they would be working with to narrow in on a reasonable cost. Ultimately, take a look at their portfolio, and if you feel it's worth it don't hesitate. You got this!