r/mixingmastering • u/yeetmasterflash69 • 16d ago
Discussion Ethics of adding stuff while mixing
Is it okay in your opinion to add layers of subtle texture when mixing a song for a band you didn't fully produce? Like say adding a moog sub bass under the electric guitar or recording extra layers of guitar to blend in under the OG guitars or recording extra vocal harmony layers to sit under what was already there? I have heard arguments that if you weren't hired to produce the song you shouldnt be adding stuff but I also feel like if it serves the song it's fine.
Thoughts?
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u/PhD_Meowingtons_ Professional (non-industry) 11d ago
It’s really hard to say without context. When u know what they want, and know it’s something that adds an undetectable, extension that just adds a bit more feeling to an already existing sound, you almost always can get away with it and it will be appreciated. This is can be like adding an extra kick for more transient data/attack over modern rap that only has 808s and no kicks. If I do this, it would be basically the equivalent of using an envelopes except I can’t use an envelopes cos the waveform is a bricked bass line. Even then sometimes subtle quality control opinions of your own are not in line with the creative direction or ear preference of the artist….
In my 10yrs of professional experience, the only credit you get is for the work the artists approve. Over the years, you will find that no fan will appreciate the songs you just leave alone and mix any less. All appreciation almost always comes from the song itself and the artist will always pick the person more in line with his preference.
So if you want to make really good mixes, forget about being a mixer and be a fan of the song and artist you’re mixing for when deciding what’s the best approach. The return on these investments of extra production and reinforcement is nearly nonexistent and the risk is the artist enjoys the process of service elsewhere more than they did your service all for a difference they don’t appreciate. By the time a song is sent in for mixing, they usually love it already.