In order to create a high-quality song, you need high-quality vocals. The term high-quality vocals might sound vague, so we shall focus on the term "clean and accurate vocals". Also, let's forget about perfect vocals since it is obvious that perfection is the poison of creativity. Not only a few years ago, recording clean and accurate vocals was a big issue in the music industry due to the lack of advanced equipment. But now is different. It requires just the right technology, and the right equipment to be able to record high-quality vocals.
Vocal recording is a very important part of music production, at least if your song requires vocals. The better the vocals, the better and easier the production, and obliviously, the better the end product.
There are various important factors that affect vocal quality during a recording session, which are mood, environment, microphone, and sound engineer.
Mood
Your mood is your mindset, the state of mind. The mood is everything. Your mood projects the outcome. The right mood would bring the right outcome. If the artist is distracted, not confident, and unhappy. It will have a great effect on the delivery. That's why some artists isolate themselves or get in tune with themselves through meditation and some other kind of special preparation. Your creativity is your magic, it can't be forced. If you feel tired, you rest; if you're distracted, you stop. Make sure you're in your best mood and mental state. Focus, and enjoy the process.
Environment
The environment in which you're located boosts your confidence. Many people think that to be able to record good and clean vocals, you need a well-sound-treated environment. It makes sense to an extent and that's why recording studios are a luxury. We still have individuals and record companies investing huge amounts of capital in studio construction.
But experiences have proven that it all comes down to noise and sound reflection. A well-treated studio will give you a boost of confidence. Knowing that you can work without fear brings a certain level of peace of mind. But just working in a quiet environment would also do the work. being said, you need the right equipment, which is our next point.
Microphone
The better the microphone, the better the vocal quality recorded. As simple as it sounds, it's a basic law of music production. Although with the presence of sophisticated hardware and advanced software that can be used to enhance vocal quality, high-quality microphones record cleaner and better vocals. So, it's 100% better to possess a high-quality microphone, than a low-quality microphone balanced by sophisticated mixing hardware and software.
There is an endless debate on which microphone is more suitable for recording rap and singing vocals. But, if you happen to be able to afford the Neumann TLM 102/103 and the Lewitt LCT 540 S, then you're on a good path. You can also try the Lewitt LCT1040 Pro, Neumann U87 Ai, and the Lauten Audio Eden LT-386 which would all take you to the next level if you're courageous enough.
Sound Engineer
If you happen to be recording alone, then you are in charge. You should be able to call yourself out on what sounds good and what doesn't. What you should try and what you should leave for another song. You direct the movie and command the ship. So, it's all on you. But, if by chance you have a producer or an engineer helping you through the production process, then you should be careful.
Make sure you listen and ask the right questions. Double-check everything before moving to the next step. I've had many experiences where the artists give it all, but the engineers help mess up everything. They ask no questions, give no advice, don't call up the artists, and pay no attention.
After a long session, you end up with a disaster. Wrong pitch, wrong rhythm, and off-beat vocals.
The next time you go into a session, and you discover the producer or engineer starts losing focus, call them out, or call off the session.
Also remember, they are no perfect vocals. So, if the vocals are clear and clean, then you're good to go. Get the best equipment you can come by.
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