As a studio owner and producer, do you get caught up in your client’s sessions when a producer is not involved? I’m not saying take it over, but do you offer suggestions on what you think sound nice and what doesn’t? Do you suggest overdubs or re-takes even if the client is cool with what they have recorded?

I do this sometimes with projects I feel good about or with clients I feel comfortable with. Besides, it’s natural instinct of a producer to give input even if they are not working with that artist. I take an interest because I care about the success of that particular client.

However, thinking about it – is it really what I am paid to do as studio personnel? With the rates I offer my clients – they are getting my recording/mixing expertise, however; having me as a producer involved is essentially something I’m not paid to do. But… when I’m in the groove of things, who’s thinking about the technicalities?! It becomes more about the music! See how this can be mind-boggling?!

Honestly, some projects I record are pure garbage. All I ever want to do in life is complete the session, mix it down and forget it ever existed. I know that sounds harsh, but the point is – it’s not for me to like or dislike. My job as a studio is to provide a quality service to my clients.

I’ve found some clients appreciate and respect my input and technically depend on it, while others just want to do their thing regardless of what I suggest. And in all right, they are entitled to that. The bottom-line is they should get what they want even if I foresee a disastrous outcome.

As studios operate differently, Technically, I realize it’s best to remain studio personnel to our clients and leave their art to them. If they want a producer, then that’s another contract. But, personally and as a producer, I’m sure I will always offer assistance, especially when asked!