Chelsea Warner’s top tips before you head into the studio

Chelsea Warner

Sydney singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist and producer Chelsea Warner is going through a purple patch of releasing new music. Today she released “It Be Like That”, the third new track since June. Following on from “Drama” and “Not In The Mood” it continues the theme of self-exploration, analysis and growth.

Classically trained at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Chelsea leans into the R&B world, and with “It Be Like That”, she’s not afraid to slow it down and invite the listener into her innermost thoughts. Of the track, Chelsea writes:  It Be Like That’ explores losing a sense of autonomy over your life and wondering whether your decisions impact your future, or if fate has the reins. Ultimately, I try to accept that I might not have as much control over my life as I’d like. Over a slick & jazzy self-produced beat I explore the idea of trying to trust your journey, but really having to convince yourself.”

The vocals on “It Be Like That” switch between sultry and sweet honeydew, underpinned by a cool beat, self-growth has never felt so uplifting and snazzy. Fans of as Solange, KAYTRANADA and Milan Ring should totally get on board the Chelsea Warner express.

The track was produced by Chelsea, with mastering performed by Matt ‘Xiro’ FioravantiChelsea’s debut album, Drama is out Friday, 5th November. You can pre-save it HERE

If you are lucky enough to be in Sydney, Chelsea will be playing at The Lord Gladstone on Friday 12th November. Tickets HERE.

To celebrate the release of “It Be Like That”, and recognising that she is intimately involved in producing her own songs, Chelsea has compiled a list of her top tips for an artist prior to heading into the studio. Read on and be enlightened and inspired.

Chelsea’s top tips before you head into the studio

1- If you’re the artist, have a few reference songs in your back pocket so you can easily communicate your vibe to the producer. Even if they’re your own demos. Personally, as a producer I love working with reference tracks, so if someone comes in saying “I wanna make a song like this today” then it’s all pretty easy from there, but otherwise, a general playlist or something is always helpful to get the session started.

2- If you’re the topliner, I’ve found it helps to have a couple of concept or title ideas prepared to throw in the mix. Often once a small idea is shared, a larger one is prompted. It’s amazing to help the artist translate their experience and feelings into lyrics, so you can go with the flow if that happens, but it’s relaxing to be prepared.

3- If you’re the producer – listen. I try to make it clear that I’m not precious about anything, and that the artist can tweak anything they like. It’s sick when producers communicate what they are vibing with, of course, but I know it’s easy for artists to feel small & inept when they don’t have the production vocabulary to suggest something or ask to have something changed, so definitely make a point of holding space for everyone in the room.

Having been on all 3 sides of a songwriting session, I have a rough idea what certain roles usually consist of, but the most important thing is to read the room and to be adaptable. Sometimes as a producer I help topline heaps if the session is going that way. Sometimes I shut up and just make the track. There’s no right or wrong way to do it but I know it will be more conducive if everyone feels heard & if the natural dynamic of the people involved is respected!

 

Justin Stewart Cotta

You can follow Chelsea Warner on her website,  FacebookInstagram and Twitter

Header photo credit: Kezia Suryaputra (@kezsurya)

Bruce Baker

Probably riding my bike, taking photos and/or at a gig. Insta: @bruce_a_baker