by : T. Fennel Crenshaw

In this article, I want to explore with you the recording process and how the studio can ignite the flames of creativity resulting in some great songs.

Did you know that some of the most memorable songs ever written were the result of the artist playing around in the studio with material that "wasn't quite ready?" Something mysterious and wonderful happens when you know you are free to stretch and test the limits of what you may have. The studio can be an expensive playground, but a most advantageous one as well.. For some, it is the very place to begin, while others instinctively know it is where they will find the end.

The word itself conjures up ideas of a magical place, vibrant and alive with technical wizardry, a holy sanction and birthplace of creation. A shrine for the artist and dreamer in search of connection and bliss. I see the studio as all of these and more; a time machine with the potential to break the bounds of space and time to touch people for an eternity. A place where I meet my true self.

It all begins by booking time in "The Studio" or being serious about using your home recording equipment in a new way (book time with your own equipment and make it a special occasion just like going into the big house where you spend $30.00 + per hour.) I like to book time at least once a month, just to explore and play around with new material. I'll take a song that is fresh, maybe not complete, and lay it down in as much entirety as possible. I don't worry if I go flat here or there, or if my lyrics aren't complete. I don't worry about effects or execution or any of that stuff. What I'm going for is capturing the emotion and freshness of the moment. You may be surprised what happens when you approach the studio in this manner.

What I usually end up with is nothing I want anyone to hear, other than myself. It is a naked moment captured in time, for me to work with and draw upon in pursuit of higher creativity. It becomes an outline for what the song will eventually be about. Sometimes, when I'm very lucky or the mood is just right, I get carried away and end up with words and music that fit together perfect. Synchronicity, pure and simple.

The best advice I could give to you as a songwriter wondering whether or not you have anything, is to put it to the test and lay it down on tape. Don't step all over it with effects and fancy stuff. If it doesn't come out pure and simple with just a guitar or piano (whatever your instrument) then you don't have anything. But at least you'll have it on tape to work with. I caution you at this point not to be too critical of yourself or your work. Nothing's ever perfect. It's the process that counts.

"Just Do It: Part II"
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For those in search of adventure

I challenge you, right now, to find an audience somewhere, anywhere, whether it be an "open mic night" at a favorite night club or a poetry reading at a local book store, and test your bounds as a writer for creativity's sake. Exercise your passion with some regularity. Feel your heart beating and swelling with adrenaline, take a few deep breaths, and make a connection with someone, somewhere, within the week.

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