Production, Mixing & Sound
Articles on music production for film & TV, mixing techniques, plugins, and the creative process. 305 articles.
With over 4 million streams as Scott Millien and years of composing for film and TV, I write about what actually works in music production — from mixing techniques and plugin reviews to sound design, mastering workflows, and studio setup. These articles cover DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio, plus the gear and creative process behind getting a professional sound. Whether you're producing your first beat or refining your mix bus chain, you'll find honest opinions backed by hands-on experience.
305 articles
Crafting Killer Basslines for Dance Music
How important is it for a music producer to understand music theory when creating captivating basslines in dance music? In the world of dance music, the beat might hit the audience first, but it’s the bassline that really makes them move. A killer bassline can elevate a decent track int
Creating Catchy Melodies and Hooks
How can one balance the elements of originality and familiarity when creating catchy hooks and melodies If music is a universal language, then melodies are its words and sentences. The melody is the part of the song that catches the ear and stirs feelings within the listener. It’s the main line
Best new mixing plugins, effects and VST instruments out this week
Are there any recently released VST instruments that surpass previously available options? Best New Mixing Plugins, Effects, and VST Instruments Out This Week We live in an era marked by technological advancements; this includes the world of music production. An array of innovative mixing plugins
Mixing Heavy Metal: Dense Guitar Sounds and Powerful Drums
What kind of audio processing is recommended for achieving a rich, dense guitar sound in heavy metal production Heavy metal has always been a genre that demands exceptional intensity and dynamic range. The essence of a great metal mix revolves around dense, weighty guitar sounds and powerfu
Mixing Punk Rock: Keeping Things Raw and Energetic
How does the process of mixing punk rock differ from other genres in terms of maintaining energy levels? When it comes to mixing punk rock, the goal isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about capturing the raw intensity, vibrance, and spontaneity of the genre. Punk rock is renowned for its raw a
Mixing World Music: Blending Global Instruments and Styles
Are there any specific global music styles that are particularly difficult or unique to work with in the mixing process The world is indeed a global village. Today, music is not just a medium for entertainment, but an important means of cultural exchange. Music from different parts of the worl
Mixing Orchestral Music: Balancing the Sections
How do the frequencies of different sections affect the balance when mixing orchestral music? As an audio engineer or music producer, one of the greatest feats you’ll take on is the task of mixing orchestral music. Orchestrating a symphony involves working with varying sections of instruments
Mixing Neo Soul: Retro and Modern R&B Vibes
What essential tools and equipment do you recommend for producing Neo Soul music? In the realm of contemporary music, it’s hard to find a genre as rich and immersive as Neo Soul. A beautiful fusion of elements from jazz, funk, hip hop, and, of course, soul, this style has given rise to co
Music Production Tips
Can you share some effective music production techniques for better track layering? Regardless of whether you are a professional music producer or a beginner just getting your feet wet, constantly honing your skills and picking up new tips is essential to progressing in this dynamic field. In t
Making Custom Ringtones and Alert Tones
What elements do music producers focus on while creating unique and catchy ringtones or alert tones? In the smartphone era, adding a personal touch to your device is almost a given. For many of us, our ringing tones are a form of personal expression, often giving us a unique identifier among o
Producing Glitch Hop: Digital Stutters, Skips and Slices
What are some tips for maintaining musicality and dynamics while producing the stutter, skip, and slice effects in Glitch Hop Emerging from the melting pot of electronic music genres, Glitch Hop has found its place in the hearts of musicians and listeners looking for a refreshing, unique sound. Fi
Making Money Selling Beats Online: Top Tips
How can a music producer ensure their beats are unique and attractive to buyers? Music is a universal language, transcending boundaries and connecting people. For gifted individuals who can create unique beats, it is an opportunity to turn passion into a lucrative career. In recent years, sellin