Don't overthink it... · Audio Artist Academy

Jul 18 (edited) • Mindset & Productivity 🧠

Don't overthink it...

Hey beautiful artists,

Just a gentle reminder that we get more done and more efficiently when we stop trying to find the 'perfect' melody, the perfect chord progression, the perfect preset, the perfect plugin, the 'perfect', 'perfect' 'perfect', etc.

It's funny how the best work can come from a little brainstorming and then just diving in, not knowing what will come out in the end.

So, detach your emotions.

That sounds a bit shocking at first, doesn't it? We may think professional trailer or cinematic music is all about self-expression and emotion. But that is not entirely accurate. Sure, yeah, that's a part of it. But when it comes to 'professionally' writing music, what you're really doing is crafting a versatile, high-quality, lucrative product. That's what it is, a product you intend to sell to a potential client, be it a publisher or a director or whoever it is you want to use this for.

But hey, that doesn't mean it can't be fun, challenging, and engaging! Inspiration comes from a steady workflow, not the best magical idea. So get to work, even if you have no idea what's going to come out. Use the technique and references you know and love to make the best quality music you can at this point. Pay attention to detail, yes, but know that the path ahead, what you'll find in the end, the FINAL shape of your project, is relatively unknown. If you find a steady workflow, inspiration will come. Like a well-earned dopamine hit after hard, sweaty exercise.

Detach your emotions (at least initially), don't overthink it... And enjoy the process. :)

Best,

Ariel

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