Need Group Think!!!

[galestermusic]

Ok first I need some advice. I have a TASCAM Inteface bundle that I don't use. But Cubase LE comes with it. Are there advantages or pontential to learning how to use Cubase LE in conjunction with MBR?

Also, I'm in somewhat of a rut. I would like everyone's input on this. Say I want to set down and come up with me own material. Music would be first with the lyrical format being geared towards Verse> Chourus> Verse> Chourus> Bridge> Chourus. I would like all of those that have done their own material to share how they did so, i.e. Basic drum track first? Metronome frame? Bass line then guitar or guitar then bass.

I actually tried singing using the built in mic and I could barely hear myself, probably a good thing as I'm not a singer. I would appreciate as much input and response as possible.

Thanks everyone and glad to be back!

Greg

[Farmjazz]

Hi Greg. I can't address your first question but, regarding songwriting there are many different approaches. Seeing it as happening one way only will surely end up with you stuck in a rut. Don't be afraid to just jot down an un-attached idea when it strikes you. Maybe it will become something, maybe it won't - both are okay.

Some 'songs' start out as just a title. I have a long list of song titles with no music yet. Songs don't have to have lyrics either. Maybe you can start out with a guitar groove and build on it. Some songs plop out in a few minutes, some have to be crafted over a period of time.

My MICRO BR has several snippets of music that need to be worked on. The most important thing is to capture it when the idea is fresh and new. That's what's so great about the MICRO BR - it's always ready when and where you are. Put some fresh batteries in it and take it in the car with you, etc. Stop watching TV and playing video games, (if you do those things), and put music at the top of your priority list.

It's a time game really. Song writing is a discipline like anything else. The sooner you just jump in and go with it, the sooner you'll be able to trust your instincts confidently in music. Oh, and you don't have to follow a format like intro/verse/verse/chorus/bridge/verse, or whatever. When you're writing music, you can do whatever you want!

On the MICRO BR, I do use the metronome typically when I sit down to record a piece. This helps to sync everything up later. This is after I've penciled out the basic arrangement and know how the song is going to play out. On an electric guitar piece, I usually lay a scratch track down with my archtop using the onboard mic and metronome. That done, I can start to flesh out various parts, knowing where I'm at at all times, bouncing as I run out of tracks, etc. It sure is fun! This little tool sounds so great, it spurs me on to try any idea that comes along. Some work, some don't. Either way, it's all good and contributes to my personal musicality in a positive way.

Not only that, this forum is fantastic for exchanging ideas and collaborating with others. Everyone has their musical voice. Find it and share it.

BTW - where were you?

Thanks everyone and glad to be back!

Go for it, Greg!   

[galestermusic]

BTW - where were you?
Quote
Thanks everyone and glad to be back!

I kinda disappeared. Dealing with things. I can't lie sometimes I get frustrated and back away from it for a while.

I appreciate your feedback! 

[Oldrottenhead]

I kinda disappeared. Dealing with things.

hi lestg good to see you back, re the above quote from my own personal experience those are the times i am at my most productive songwise that is. songwriting is my own form of self therapy.
re songwriting, there are no strict rules or formulas for my songwriting, they just come to me, sometimes almost spontaneously or sometimes it can be like pulling teeth.

[galestermusic]

Thanks OHR! I believe if I keep my self exposed to this community things will start to click.

Greg