Creative Constraints

Sometimes we get stuck in the tracks (no pun intended). One way to get around "producers block" is setting up rules - creative constraints. Although this might seem like a paradox at first, setting up limits may actually push creativity in totally new directions.

Here are a few examples of possible producing boundaries:

• Instead of drums, use only percussion.
• Try recording harmonies one note at a time like you were using only monophonic instruments.
• Record a song completely live, without overdubs.
• Limit the amount of microphones used on each instrument. E.g. try getting a good drum sound with only three, two or one mic.
• Limit the amount of recording tracks.
• Get the sound right at the instrument or amplifier and don't use effects in the mixing stage.
• Record a song without conventional instruments. Use only voices or improvised instruments.
• Limit the amount of takes per instrument.
• Try recording the instruments in a different order than you would usually do.

And for songwriting:

• Write a melody based on a specific scale.
• Compose a song within a rigid form such as AABA or verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus.
• Compose a melody on an instrument you're not familliar with.
• Write a song just humming the tune, with no instrumental accompaniment.
• Choose a theme for the lyrics before writing the music.
• Write towards a specific musical style.

These are just a few examples but I hope they can inspire you to think of other possible creative constraints. Happy writing and recording!