What is this 1st song offer thing?
If you have never recorded with me before, I will record/mix/master one song and provide you with a copy of the song that has moments of silence every few seconds. This gives you an opportunity to hear what it actually sounds like at no cost, without me having to just give something away. You have the option of getting the intact first song at 60% off normal per-song rates.
Why do you call it the Ugly Floor Studio?
Come on down and see our world-renowned floor…*
Can you offer us advice during the recording?
This falls under the category of producer, and I can offer this if you desire. I have extensive expertise in music theory, and have been a successful gigging and studio musician for many years, in many styles of music. I can also keep my opinions to myself if you are confident that you know how you want it to go. The more I know upfront what you need and don’t need from me, the better the experience for us all.
We’re trying to flesh out a song, and aren’t really sure yet how we want it to go. Can we do that at Ugly Floor?
You can, but if the parts aren’t mostly worked out beforehand it would need to happen at an hourly rate. I can’t do this kind of thing at a per-song rate or my dog will die of starvation.
When is payment due?
Before the session, or after a session is done but before you leave the session.
What can I take home before the project is finished?
Whatever you have paid for to that point. I am a trusting soul by nature, but have been burned by people who had no problem stealing my services after promises that they would pay me later.
Our band has 5 members. Can each member get a first-song rate?
No
Can I get unlimited takes for a per-song rate?
I am sympathetic to being nervous and taking a few tries to get a performance that you can normally do easily. That said, repeatedly trying to get to a take that is beyond what you’ve ever done would require an hourly rate.
Can I get unlimited remixes?
For mixes and/or masters, I will provide 2 chances for review and revision. If more is needed after that it will be charged per hour.
I have tracks that were recorded somewhere else. Can you mix them?
Absolutely.
You can also use the 1st song offer on mixing/mastering of tracks.
Why should I use you instead of (fill in the blank)?
Use the 1st song offer. If the experience doesn’t float your boat, you have your answer at no financial cost. This is as no-risk as I can think to make it without just giving stuff away.
Our guitar player has garage band. Can’t we just do all this by ourselves?
Sure. If you can.
But let me ask you a question:
“Our guitar player has some oil paints, some brushes, and a canvas. Can he paint a picture?”
Sure.
If he can.
*Disclaimer: Our floor is not yet actually world-renowned (but I’m working on it).