Music production is not just about assembling notes and rhythms; it's also about conveying an emotion, telling a story, and most importantly, transferring innovation. When we talk about creating a unique piece, what immediately comes to mind is a unique sound and a difference. So, how can we capture this unique sound and difference? The answer might seem simple but requires a deep discipline and understanding: listening to a lot of music and opening ourselves to various music genres.
The 1 to 10 Rule: Producing by Listening
One of the keys to enhancing creativity in music production is based on a method I created, the "1 to 10 Rule". This rule suggests listening to ten times more music than you produce. You can optionally expand this ratio to 1 to 20, 1 to 30, and so forth. What is the logic behind this rule?
The Source of Inspiration: What We Listen To
Whatever we do as humans, our subconscious references what has been done before us. This is also true when it comes to music production. The music we listen to affects us, even if we are not aware of it, and guides our own musical expression. By listening, we learn the building blocks, techniques, and emotional transitions of music from different genres. This treasure trove of knowledge guides us on our own musical journey.
Listening for Technique and Analysis
The secret to producing a creative piece lies in listening not just for pleasure, but also for technique and analysis. While listening to a piece, thinking about the theory behind the melody, the reason for the rhythm, the choice of instruments used, and how the sound is layered, enhances our music production skills. This in-depth listening practice provides us with new ideas and techniques that we can apply to our own music.
The Power of Listening
Opening ourselves to various music genres nourishes and expands our creativity. Exploring sounds from different cultures, histories, and artists enables us to add an innovative touch to our music. This is a critical step in the music production process when chasing a unique sound.
Conclusion
Creative music production begins with disciplined listening practice. The "1 to 10 Rule" is a way to systematize this process. Embracing diversity and in-depth analysis while developing our own musical expression moves us forward on the path to creating truly original and impactful works. Remember, the music universe is an endless sea waiting to be explored, and every piece we listen to is an opportunity to enrich our own art.