The Self-Recording Band

292: Small Mix Tweaks, Big Results - Real-World Recording & Mixing Lessons That You Can Use Today

Your next step: Apply for coaching! 👉 If you already have songs written and want to get them release-ready, go ahead and apply for coaching now.  We’ll show you how to produce, record, mix, and master your songs.  In your DAW of choice, and with only the plugins and gear you already own.  With unlimited feedback, full 1-on-1 guidance, and a custom music production plan made specifically for you. Sounds interesting? 🚀 Click here for all the details: theselfrecordingband.com/coaching [https://go.theselfrecordingband.com/coaching] -- Episode show notes: In this episode, Benedikt and Manel dive into fresh lessons from recent real recording, mixing and coaching projects. You’ll learn why seemingly tiny mix tweaks (we’re talking 0.5–1 dB) can completely transform a chorus… when to keep pushing for perfection… and when it’s time to stop tweaking and call a mix “done.” You’ll also hear why working with external producers or engineers can completely change your playing - and even your identity as a musician.  Manel shares humbling (and hilarious) stories from his early studio days, including the moment when a producer had to re-record part of his guitar solo and why that became a pivotal learning moment. Finally, we unpack the power of panning, tone-shaping, and arrangement decisions - and why context matters way more than isolated guitar tones. If you want practical, real-world insights that instantly make you better at recording and mixing your own music… this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: * Why 0.5 dB automation moves can make or break a chorus * The danger of endless revisions - and when it’s worth the extra round * How to build contrast between parts without wrecking your mix * Why stereo vs mono decisions matter already in pre-production * How Manel’s ego got destroyed (again) in the studio - and why he’s grateful * Why you often can’t dial in a great tone alone in your room * Why context is everything: isolated guitar tones don’t matter * How external producers can dramatically improve your skills * Why some instruments in classic records sound “wrong” solo’d but perfect in the mix * How subtle panning changes can boost the emotional impact of your song Key Quotes: * “The mix is never really finished. There’s always another idea you could try - but you need a rule for when to stop.” - Benedikt * “I thought I was the best - but the producer made me realize I couldn’t actually play that simple part.” - Manel * “Context matters more than individual tone. A guitar can sound terrible solo’d and be perfect in the mix.” - Benedikt * “Panning is one of the most powerful creative tools - use it intentionally.” - Manel Links & Resources: * The Self-Recording Syndicate (Our Coaching Program): Learn how to make pro quality records from your home studio: theselfrecordingband.com/coaching [https://go.theselfrecordingband.com/coaching] * Episode 291 with Jesse Cannon (Highly Recommended): Music Marketing Real Talk - How To Actually Get Your Music Heard [https://theselfrecordingband.com/291-music-marketing-real-talk-with-jesse-cannon-how-to-actually-get-your-music-heard/] -- For links to everything we've mentioned in this episode, as well as full show notes go to: theselfrecordingband.c [https://theselfrecordingband.com/292] Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/836626/open_sms] If you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: podcast@theselfrecordingband.com

291: Music Marketing Real Talk With Jesse Cannon - How To Actually Get Your Music Heard

In this episode, we sit down with Jesse Cannon - producer, engineer, author, YouTuber (Musformation), and one of the most respected music marketing strategists today. This episode is absolutely packed with real-world, data-backed insights on what actually works in 2025/26 and beyond - and what artists should finally stop wasting time on. ⸻ What We Cover: 🎯 The #1 thing artists must do before promoting anything Why understanding your identity, strengths, aspirations, and position in the market is no longer optional - and how Jesse’s LAMES analysis helps artists finally get clarity. 📱 The truth about social media in 2025/26 * Why you must start on all three short-form platforms (TikTok, Reels, Shorts). * Why you can’t predict where you’ll grow. * Why “I don’t want to be a content creator” is no longer a useful mindset. * When it is possible to grow without social media - and why it’s rare. 🎧 Release strategy: The 4–8 week rule Why consistent, sustained releases are the #1 growth driver for new artists today - and how Jesse discovered the pattern by analyzing major breakout acts. 🎵 Playlists: Overrated? Underrated? Misunderstood? Jesse breaks down: * Why playlists are not dead. * Why most people misunderstand their role. * Why editorials still matter even if fewer people listen. * Why taste-curated playlists are a massive opportunity. * Why random SubmitHub blasting can destroy your account. 💸 Paid ads: When (and when NOT) to use them * Why Meta ads are overrated for artists. * Why they do work for retargeting, merch, and warm audiences. * Why ads fail without proof of concept. * Why organic early adopters are worth more than paid traffic. 🧠 The mindset artists need if they want to grow Including: * Why overwhelm is largely psychological. * Why most people never look at analytics correctly. * Why you should never check stats unless you’re ready to change something. * How to avoid depression loops around growth. 🌍 Websites, email lists & direct-to-fan tools * Are websites still relevant? (Answer: yes - but only certain types.) * Why email is still incredibly effective even with young audiences. * Why Shopify beats Squarespace/Wix for artists with merch. * Why Tribly.FM is one of the most underrated tools for artists. 🔥 Creative promo ideas Including the example of artist Audrey Hobert and her brilliant “Archive” page that builds a universe around every song.  ⸻ Jesse's Links: * Jesse’s YouTube: Musformation [https://www.youtube.com/@Musformation] * Jesse’s newsletter: Music Marketing Trends [https://musicmarketingtrends.beehiiv.com/] * Jesse’s books: Processing Creativity & Get More Fans [https://www.jessecannon.com/writing] * LAMES analysis video [https://youtu.be/qpEMwX0AG5I?si=9U5thZP9wS3VjMR1] ⸻ If you’re a self-recording artist and want help making your music sound professional and releasing it effectively, apply for our coaching program at: 👉 theselfrecordingband.com/coaching [https://go.theselfrecordingband.com/coaching] For links to everything we've mentioned in this episode, key takeaways, as well as full show notes go to: theselfrecordingband.com/291 [https://theselfrecordingband.com/291] Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/836626/open_sms] If you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: podcast@theselfrecordingband.com

290: Afraid to Release Your Music? Here’s What’s Really Holding You Back

Your next step: Apply for coaching! 👉 If you have songs written and want to get them release-ready, go ahead and apply for coaching now.  We’ll show you how to produce, record, mix, and master your songs.  In your DAW of choice, and with only the plugins and gear you already own.  With unlimited feedback, full 1-on-1 guidance, and a custom music production plan made specifically for you. 🚀 Click here for all the details: theselfrecordingband.com/coaching [https://go.theselfrecordingband.com/coaching] -- Episode show notes: Are you scared to release your music? Thinking it’s not good enough yet? Afraid of criticism, or of hitting that publish button? You’re not alone. Almost every artist feels this way at some point. In this episode, Benedikt and Manel get real about the fear behind finishing and releasing music. Why it happens, how to overcome it, and what happens when you finally let go of perfectionism and self-doubt. They share personal stories (from Benedikt’s band, his studio, and his coaching business) and examples from real students who turned fear into finished records. You’ll learn: * Why “everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear” * How to overcome perfectionism and analysis paralysis * The difference between overwhelm and anxiety in your creative process * How making faster decisions leads to faster progress * Why art isn’t about playing it safe - and why taking risks matters * How to find courage, take the first step, and finally share your songs with the world Whether you’ve been sitting on unreleased songs for years or you’re just afraid of judgment, this episode will help you move forward and finally release your music proudly. 👉 Listen now and take that first step. And if you want help finishing and releasing your songs, apply for coaching at theselfrecordingband.com [https://theselfrecordingband.com]. We’ll show you the exact path and hold you accountable so you don’t have to do it alone. -- For links to everything we've mentioned in this episode, key takeaways, as well as full show notes go to: theselfrecordingband.com/290 [https://theselfrecordingband.com/290] Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/836626/open_sms] If you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: podcast@theselfrecordingband.com

289: Lessons From Real Recording Sessions and Coaching Projects

Your next step: Apply for coaching! 👉 If you already have songs written and want to get them release-ready, go ahead and apply for coaching now.  We’ll show you how to produce, record, mix, and master your songs.  In your DAW of choice, and with only the plugins and gear you already own.  With unlimited feedback, full 1-on-1 guidance, and a custom music production plan made specifically for you. If we accept your application, we’ll first have a free call with you. On this call, we’ll take notes and then create a custom plan just for you. If you don’t absolutely love this plan, you don’t have to pay anything and can just keep trying on your own. If you love it and would like to implement it with us, we can start working together. In that case we'll help you personally to get your projects done and out there at the highest possible quality. Sounds fair? 🚀 Click here for all the details: theselfrecordingband.com/coaching [https://go.theselfrecordingband.com/coaching] -- Episode show notes: In this episode, Benedikt and Manel dive deep into the most valuable lessons they’ve learned from recent real-life recording and mixing sessions, as well as coaching projects inside The Self-Recording Syndicate. These are the kinds of situations you only encounter when working hands-on with artists - from communication breakdowns to tone-shaping decisions, from phase issues to overthinking mixes. They cover: * How poor communication (or assumptions) can derail a session - and how to fix it * Why your hi-hat might be too loud in your overheads (and what to do about it) * Why bigger, thinner cymbals are often the best for recording * What to do when an artist changes their mind mid-production * How to balance artistic vision with professional judgment * Why you should trust your gut and use fewer plugins * The importance of phase alignment and what can go wrong when you ignore it * How to diagnose mix problems (hint: sometimes the bass isn’t too loud - the drums might be too quiet) * And much more practical wisdom straight from real coaching calls and mixing sessions Whether you’re producing your own record or working with others, this episode is full of actionable lessons that will save you hours of frustration and help you make better-sounding records. -- For links to everything we've mentioned in this episode, key takeaways, as well as full show notes go to: theselfrecordingband.com/289 [https://theselfrecordingband.com/289]   Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/836626/open_sms] If you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: podcast@theselfrecordingband.com

288: Danny Gomez: From Brian May to Dirty Boy Pedals - Turning Obsession Into Opportunity

Your next step: Apply for coaching! 👉 If you already have songs written and want to get them release-ready, go ahead and apply for coaching now.  We’ll show you how to produce, record, mix, and master your songs.  In your DAW of choice, and with only the plugins and gear you already own.  With unlimited feedback, full 1-on-1 guidance, and a custom music production plan made specifically for you. If we accept your application, we’ll first have a free call with you. On this call, we’ll take notes and then create a custom plan just for you. If you don’t absolutely love this plan, you don’t have to pay anything and can just keep trying on your own. If you love it and would like to implement it with us, we can start working together. In that case we'll help you personally to get your projects done and out there at the highest possible quality. Sounds fair? 🚀 Click here for all the details: theselfrecordingband.com/coaching [https://go.theselfrecordingband.com/coaching] -- Episode show notes: In this inspiring and entertaining episode, Benedikt and Manel talk to guitarist, product designer, and entrepreneur Danny Gomez - a true example of what happens when obsession meets opportunity. Danny has worked with Brian May, Orange Amps, Fender, PRS, and many more. He’s an accomplished musician, who's played guitar in the "We Will Rock You" musical, and alongside many of the greats in the music industry.  Danny is also the translator of Brian May’s "Red Special" book (Spanish edition), owner of Dirty Boy Pedals, and creator of the Royal Way Academy, where he teaches how to play Queen songs on the guitar. His journey - from growing up in a tough Madrid neighbourhood, to touring with "We Will Rock You", to designing groundbreaking gear - is packed with lessons for every self-recording artist. What You’ll Learn: * How obsession, preparation, and timing can turn chance encounters into life-changing opportunities. * Why being ready matters more than being lucky. * The story behind Danny’s OMEC Teleport with Orange Amps - the first audio-interface pedal of its kind. * How saying yes to scary things (even emails to Brian May himself!) can open doors you didn’t know existed. * The philosophy behind Dirty Boy Pedals - analog inspiration in a digital world. * Why a few great, inspiring tools beat a room full of average gear. * How pedals and analog gear can spark creativity even when you’re recording at home. * The power of in-person connections in an online world. * How Danny built the most niche online guitar school ever: The Royal Way Academy - teaching only Queen songs. Key Takeaways: * “Luck is where opportunity meets preparation.” * Don’t wait to be “ready enough” - just do it. * Gear should inspire you to play more music, not distract you. * Being different beats being perfect. Links & Resources: * Dirty Boy Pedals: dirtyboy.co [https://www.dirtyboy.co/] * Danny Gomez: dannygomez.net [https://dannygomez.net/] * Instagram: @dirtyboypedals [https://www.instagram.com/dirtyboypedals/] | @dannygomezofficial [https://www.instagram.com/dannygomezoficial/] * Danny’s Queen-focused guitar school: The Royal Way Academy [https://dannygomez.net/academy/] -- For links to everything we've mentioned in this episode, key takeaways, as well as full show notes go to: theselfrecordingband.com/288 [https://theselfrecordingband.com/288] Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/836626/open_sms] If you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: podcast@theselfrecordingband.com