Creating music is a mix between creativity and technical skill, and a well-organized production workflow can make a world of difference in achieving your desired results. Whether you're a seasoned music producer or just starting out, refining your music production process can lead to more efficient and satisfying outcomes. In this blog, we'll go over 6 tips to speed up your workflow, covering everything from file organization to making informed creative decisions.
Tip #1: Organizing Your Project Files
The foundation of an effective music production workflow begins with keeping your project files organized. I know this can be a pain, but this is helpful so that you know where all your materials are at all times. Organizing samples you use, plugins, and your music can be a lifesaver. When you get the opportunity to play your music for an audience or during a studio session with artists the last thing you want to be wasting time on is finding your music. Start by naming your tracks something that would appeal to an artist using that beat, then the BPM and key of the song. Have a go-to folder with your best music, best samples, or your favorite VSTs.
Tip# 2: Setting Up Template Projects
Creating a template project can save you significant time and effort during each production. I usually load up my FL Studio with FL Keys so I can quickly get a melody down. I already have the most basic drums loaded up so I can quickly start getting a bounce. Once I have a skeleton of a track, I change the sounds and then start working on the finer details. In my mixer, I have EQs removing the low frequencies of the samples. I also have a melody bus where I route all of my instruments without the drums. You may work a little differently than me, but the idea is if you find yourself doing the same thing for every track then find a way to put it in a template. This way, you can jump straight into the creative process without spending unnecessary time recreating the same setup every time.
Tips #3: Worry About the Fine Details Later
I kind of stated this in my last tip, but when starting a new track, focus on capturing the core idea quickly. Creativity can be a little tricky sometimes because one idea can spark another and soon you've lost the original idea that you were excited about. Don't get bogged down in the details initially. If there is a little tweak that won't take too long then definitely do it along the way, but don't get lost in mixing, special effects, or advanced drops before you've laid down your drums. It will drain your energy. Lay down the main elements, such as melodies, chords, and rhythms, before diving into intricate sound design and arrangement.
Tip #4: Learning Basic Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are your best friend for an efficient workflow. If you find yourself doing certain processes over and over again, see if there is a keyboard shortcut for it to get you there faster. Learning keyboard shortcuts for tasks like copying, pasting, and zooming can save you countless clicks and increase your overall speed.
Tip #5: You Have to Commit
While it's tempting to endlessly tweak and modify your sounds, committing to certain creative decisions can actually be liberating. Limiting yourself forces you to find creative solutions within those boundaries, which can lead to unique and unexpected results. Just go for it.
Tip #6: Producer Resources
Using samples, MIDI, or accents and phrases could definitely help speed up your workflow. Here at The Loop Source, we provide tons of samples, phrases, and MIDI so that you can build off something rather than having to fully develop an idea. Sometimes, beat block can slow you down and you just need a little bit of inspiration to get you going again.
Transitioning from a demo to a polished music production involves more than just adding layers and effects. A thoughtful workflow that encompasses organization, using templates, decision-making, and using resources available to you can significantly enhance your creative journey. By following these tips, you'll streamline your process and empower yourself to make informed creative decisions that lead to outstanding musical results. Remember, a well-structured workflow not only saves time but also nurtures your creative spirit. Stay focused.