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My concern with the covid stuff in how it relates to the studio business go towards stuff I’ve hinted at on one of the last few podcasts, the value of the engineer and it applies at all times not just in the state of emergency
The tracking engineer specifically is often a producer on the song and should be credited and compensated appropriately.
They are often vocal coaching (recut this, say that line like this, you’re off beat etc) they are often arranging the beat (moving sections around, extending the beat, changing the tempo)
They are often the first and most trusted set of ears on a project, suggesting different approaches, features, etc. that is all Producing, they deserve more than an hourly rate.
Mixing engineers as well. Taking stuff out, replacing drums or other sounds, rescuing what otherwise may have ended up unusable. Those actions deserve more than a flat fee.
The Music Modernization act supposedly covers some of that but I’m not entirely sure how much of it is or is going to be put into action.
How that all relates to business slowing down is it would give engineers, a critical cog in the creative process, passive income during hard times.
It would also empower engineers to open their own facilities, most engineers don’t make enough money to invest that kind of bread, or are working too much to take the time to do it.
That would lead to better studios. Equipped by the people that use it designed to accommodate the artists that work there.
There are some artists or let me say music ppl that do take care of their people in this manner be it out of necessity through negotiation or good will though so salute to them and to the engineers that have built their business up to these standards.
All that being said, engineers can still mix from home and help you get your recording setup rocking (which you should compensate them for) so take care of your guys (and girls) today and help them build a future
Also now is not a bad time to reach out and make sure all your accounts are solid btw if you’re an artist.
