Dealing with Self Doubt in Music | FAQ Friday - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro
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- Опубликовано: 12 сен 2024
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“How do you deal with massive self-doubt? How do you get yourself out of “the funk”? How do you get creative again? How do you get inspired?”
That is a paraphrase of the question that was asked but this is probably the most frequently asked question that I get.
I have been through massive self-doubt and it never fully goes away. There are a couple of good reasons and one of those is that we’re all standing on the shoulders of giants.
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Hi friends, how do you deal with crippling self doubt? With depression? This is which a huge question for me. It’s very close to my heart and many people inside of our Academy and here on RUclips have been talking about it. Many of us, myself included have been through this and continue to, many of us have lost close friends and loved ones. Please let us know your experiences, it really helps our community! I appreciate you all sharing! Do you have also any questions for next weeks FAQ Friday? Leave Them Below!
Wow great video. You said a lot of really helpful things, thanks!
@Warulven thanks ever so much my friend!! haha you're not annoying at all!
@@nickpratt9338 you're very welcome my friend!!
Derek DiLeo wow! Thank you for sharing your experiences! That really helps so many of us!!
Brilliant video as ever. I have recently come out of my biggest creative rut to date and it was not nice. Something I have started to do now is make time every week to do something musical that i find fun but not necessarily productive. I'm currently producing a production music album and soloing my little heart out over a Toto album isn't the best use of my time but it still allows me to have fun with music whilst creativity is in short supply. I find this keeps spirits up and this helped me get out of my funk.
I very nearly drank myself to death over the course of a few years and had recurring suicidal ideation for many before and after. I'm a good bassist and songwriter and had no problems getting work, friends, or girlfriends. I did have hell of a time staying out of the abyss. Now 10-years into sobriety, I have a day-job helping others in recovery and can finally afford some slutty outboard gear. I still have my depressive seasons, and it has taken longer than I'd hoped to make the music I hear in my head, but it is happening.....and I'm still alive. Things changed dramatically a decade ago when I abandoned my feeling of "terminal uniqueness" and took steps to get help. One of the greatest joys is that, on this side of treatment, I get to help others. I'm a better player now too. Warren's right , we're not alone and we're not so unique. This is a good thing.
@Warulven Good to hear from you too brother. It feels great to be a survivor and be able to find clear-eyed creativity. Sometimes the "rat-bastard" rears his head....but recovery works. I should admit though....I now have a gear addiction...and frankly...Warren's an enabler. :) (see how I did that - blame someone else for my bullshit? That's the rat-bastard) :)
@@motoprentice "Warren's an enabler"
Better than that - _he empowers_. Just by giving space to talk about important stuff that affects our enterprises, and putting topics out there for serious discussion ... he empowers us to help both ourselves and each other.
@@DavidAndrewsPEC one thing I love is it isnt all geared toward ego and industry success.
@@motoprentice That!!!!!!
Day by day. Peace and love!
Needed to hear this. I don't get to talk with a lot of musicians, and this makes me feel a little more sane!
I am, most of the time, like Dr Frankenstein fearing the town's people will burn my wonderful creations! Join the Party!
Hi Jonathan Kosyjana Thanks ever so much! Yes, I agree, knowing we are not alone is so huge for me!! Thanks ever so much for all of your support my friend!
Hi JJ yanks ever so much my friend for sharing!!
You're in a good space here... it's a miracle
that we can hang out online and have this
kind of artistic tribe
@@Producelikeapro Absolutely! We are all one big musical family =]. Cheers!
I think some of the greatest songs ever written have come out of depression. When I feel melancholy thats when I grab a pen and paper!
Kevin Stockdill agreed!! Thanks for saying that!
I have dealt with loneliness and depression my whole life and music has always helped. Unfortunately, I never realized how much I depended on my work friends, to help me cope. Now that I retired and moved back home, I find that I set weeks at a time doing nothing! This group helps, but nothing beats one-on-one friendships. I keep trying, but it is a lot harder to keep going, when it is only you and your cat. I do have to admit that the things that I am most proud of, came from deep depression! Your only choice is to keep moving and hope that things will get better.
Maybe find some people online that live somewhat nearby so you can meet up? Chances are you aren't the only one in your area that doesn't like being alone.
@@TimMer1981 Been looking around without much luck, so I just go around and record local bands. All you can do is force yourself out and around things you enjoy in hopes of finding like minded people. You got to keep moving or the world will pass you by.
Hi@@delvenhamric1200 thanks for your wonderful comment! The number one reason I founded Produce Like A Pro was to bring people together, cut through the experts and get down the core that we all just do this because we love music! I also have an Academy that has a huge amount of people like us who share our experiences with each other, it';s incredibly supportive! Where are you based?
@@Producelikeapro I live up north in Elk Grove, near Sacramento, CA. Yes, PLAP has been good to me, but sometimes you need someone near by to share your Ideas with. Soon I hope to get up the nerve to put one of my mixes up, but until then I do enjoy your videos and mixing the multi-tracks. Thanks for the kind words.
Dude, just taking care of a cat marks you in my book as a better person than most!! Just retired myself and it is a change. That plus a move is a big hit. Best wishes!
You have no idea how timely this is.
Cory Hawthorne wow! Thank you my friend! You don’t know how important it is to hear that as well! Sharing that really helps everyone else not feel alone as well!!
Wish you well Cory!
@@sansocie Thank you, sir. You as well.
This video is so wonderful. I suffer with massive anxiety and self-deprecation, moreso in the past, but I still struggle. I find I am most creative when I'm upset, frustrated, angry or feeling underestimated (being honest). It lights a fire in me. I play my bass daily to remind myself that I love music, and it's fun. Don't lose sight of the fun. I step away when it's not feeling like that. I don't want my music to feel like a chore or be a source of stress in my life. Give yourself more credit than you do. I'm still learning how to do that...keep growing.
Hi Flammable! Thanks ever so much for your wonderfully supportive message!! I really appreciate it! Thanks my friend!!
@Warulven yes indeed!!
So I guess to share my own experience. I’ve been diagnosed with manic depressive disorder which I fight with every day. And it just helps to have session after session lined up. The more time I’m with bands, or working with other people, the happier I wind up being. Being alone scared me, and I don’t like how my own head is wired.
Whoever asked that question I absolutely have many doubts within my own head. But the enthusiasm I see from the local punk bands I record, or when I get to record for myself... it helps lighten that load on your shoulders. I hope it looks up for you random internet human!
Life would not be possible without CHEMICALS or so Monsanto said in an ad. None of us are perfect. Many are born with chem problems from birth. Everyone needs to get help in some way. Just remember no self medication. Work with a Pro MD or Warren.
There are times where I listen to something that really makes me feel, something like Weezer's Blue Album, and it puts me in this fugue state of "Why bother writing something that reflects how I feel when these feels have been aged and distilled into great music already?" I wrote a song in summer 2010 that really embodied how I felt about a subject matter I dont care about anymore, and I almost want to stop playing, but there are times where I think maybe someone out there resonates with how my music sounds more than it ever did with me, and thinking of it that way, I have to keep writing. Not many people will ever hear what I write, but if someone does and it helps them like Weezer's Blue Album helped me, it doesnt matter who has written what in the past anymore.
Ty Crawford 👍
That’s it mate. That’s what it’s all about isn’t it.
Beautiful.
what a great motive, my friend! to give hope, to help others get through bad times, and so on...
ok ill start. I'm totally Manic /Depressive, I go from feeling invincible to wondering why bother, I'm just gonna croak one day. LOL ( that was my nervous laugh ) I work in TV & Film and so I don't really have the luxury of producing only when I feel like it. I have deadlines that can't be missed, and everyone has really high expectations ALL THE TIME. not just some of the time. EVERY TIME. its a lot of pressure, but there are only one or two things that really stop me from being productive, and the biggest one is if someone I love (human or animal ) is unwell. That stops me cold in my tracks. Anything else i can push thru with sheer willpower. But that will stop me dead, and I just need to take a break ( usually a couple of hours) to fill the well up again and then i get back at it. I dont have alot of self-doubt, because i get things wrong. not a lot, but i get things wrong - do a less than stellar job for some reason or other ( like not having enough time to do a great job, so i do an adequate job) , but i don't die over it, because the volume of work i do wont permit it. So, in the end, its just having a thick skin, and pushing hard over the bumps, not dying over stupid mistakes and don't blame anyone else for things that are on you. Thats my .02 $
Great advice!
Hi Paul LeBlanc firstly, and most importantly, thank you ever so much for coming here and sharing this! This is so important for people to hear, more than anything, that they are not alone and this to shall pass!! Thanks for this incredible post!!
Matteis - I agree!!
Doubt. Constantly. Look to please only yourself, enjoy the little things you create that work! Small steps, long journeys... keep making beauty! We all need each other's "little things that work".
Thank you, Warren. Very timely! When 'the funk' comes, I tend to just wait it out, take a break, do some reading. Why let the time go to waste?
Thanks ever so much Benjamin for sharing your experience with us here! I know everyone in our community really appreciates hearing wise words!
This is excellent subject sir. I must say, I don't listen other people's music as producer or songwriter, I never analyze something other people created, I just listen other people music like normal person. And since I operate in that way I can't compare myself to others.
If sometimes there is a moment of self-doubt, I simply continue working and soon after weakness comes something good. Like in every business, a man simply has to work even if he is not feeling well, and over time he will become more and more immune to such things.
Thank you for the video love your work 👏🏻
Hi Nick Chase Thanks ever so much my friend. This is a huge subject for me. There’s a lot of glorification of people’s genius and the reality is the biggest and best I’ve worked with all have so much self doubt! I can almost say the better people are the more self doubt they have!
@@Producelikeapro " I can almost say the better people are the more self doubt they have!".....almost haha
@@Producelikeapro This is so true my Friend. At the end of the day we're all just a humans.
Don't worry man, you are genius musician. and going through self doubt and hardships only makes you better musician every time you overcome all those things. I bet that there is so many people on this channel that want to have your skill, so remember that every time when you are in doubt. You are example to many people on this channel, believe me.
@@devinunderwood9039 ok, I can for a fact the better they are they question themselves even more!!
You are a world class engineer/mixer\musician and an even greater person! God bless you Warren! And thank you for all you do!
michael tablet wow! Thank you ever so much! That really means a lot my friend!!
I struggle with bipolar and depression, I feel the imposter syndrome, work daily to shut out the self-doubt and self-criticism and I do two things; I keep on creating, never, ever, stop, even if what is currently coming out isn't my best and I support and encourage the creative friends around me struggling with the same thoughts and feelings and in doing so I feel better. I find encouraging others has a by proxy effect on myself.
I'll be watching this again. I deal with this depression, anxiety, and RSD every day. This is something I've needed to hear for a long time. It's held me back for so long. I've been trying to fight through it lately. But I only wish someone had said this to me years ago. I actually had to fight back tears and rewind this to get through it. Thank you, Warren. It seems like I'm forever thanking you. But thank you again, and again, and again, and again... etc.
Thank you ever so much Bobby for your very kind words! I am happy and glad to help in any way I can my friend! I know going on line and seeing all of these 'experts' who 'know' everything about music and not to mention life it can be quite bewildering! All I know is I know nothing! I am still learning and all I can do is hope that we can share whatever knowledge we have with each other!
Follow your heart my friend. Music comes within, not what people say you should be doing. Music is natural within us.
Being thankful is such a healing thing, my brother.
Bless you, Bobby! I too have struggled... every creative
thinker, writer, artist, musician, etc. has wrestled with
those voices of fear, doubt, discouragement and so on.
It's just the negative noise of this world.
But today's a new day, fresh start, a new chance to break
through, to make something hopeful and beautiful and good... rock on, bro! sf
@@jasabasenara8124 Thank you. I agree.
@@seanemmettfullerton Beautifully put. I thank you. I hope your journey is as blessed as it can be.
I've been playing music since 1991 when I was 11 and I've suffered all the self doubt, depression etc more then I care to imagine. Creative people seem to get this more.
A couple of point that I hope will help.
A) If you're starting out make sure you learn your craft until you can do it in your sleep. If that's guitar, at least learn major/minor chords and have a grasp on melody. Major and minor pentatonics are great for the latter and singing the note while playing it will help with multitasking. All the greats can sing and play, plus operate pedals or have conversations with the stagehands while performing and this single thing caused me so much, simply grrrrrrrrrrrrr, when I started out. so much so, I nearly quit. You need to be able disconnect your hands/feet/mouth and brain so they automatically know what to do without thinking. Look up Larry Graham playing Hair live to see an amazing example of this.
B) Be influenced by the artists you love (and even those you don't) but judgmental with human beings. The reason I say this is because some people will try and help you, others will try to put you down especially if they see star quality. Listen to the music, practice lots and if someone gives you some advice always be humble and thankful but use your judgement as to whether the advice will help you in a positive or negative sense. If its negative, bin it.
One example, a long time ago someone I respected a lot told me to listen/study to anything even country but to avoid Jazz as it was a jumble of notes anyone could play. Years later I saw a video with Carol Kaye where she explained chordal scales, their use in Jazz and the reasons why. I felt quite annoyed and for a very good reason. If you meet a new lover, you want to know everything about them. If you love music, learn Musicology!! ***funky little dance space :)***
C) Express YOURSELF! Influence is one thing, but copying or trying to be someone else doesn't work and leads to frustration/anxiety/depression. I used to love the innocence of the 50s/60s era rock and roll and tried to emulate that period in my earliest songs. They always came across cheesy, almost stupid and this used to cause me many hours doubting myself but then I realized that times have changed and those artist wrote songs relevant to the period that they lived in. If nobody had heard of The Beatles and they released Please Please Me now, I think that Ariana Grande tweeking and twerking would still knock them off the charts, simply because times have changed and so have peoples ideas of music. Of-course, thats not to be said it can't be done. When I first heard Arctic Monkeys first album it blew me away because the rhythm was so familiar to classic rock with modern dance/rap melodies played on guitar and lyrics with references to texting girls and the madness of nights out in early naughties England. Everyone could relate to it and the songs were mostly played very fast and energetic on a bed of distortion.
D) Last one, I promise. It kind of ties in with the above but yet they're all related.
If you think your writing is bad or you have trouble expressing your emotions, keep writing until you feel comfortable or you like what you hear. Its kinda like having a blocked nose and having to keep blowing until you've cleared it, and you may have heard it before but its very true. When I was writing the crappy songs I mentioned above, it was not so much the style, it was more the fact that I hadn't got the experience I do now, in life and in everything. Its important to remember that crappy songs happen to all of us and its part of being human.
It all boils down to the more experience in songwriting/playing you have, the easier it becomes because you know what your doing. Even if you have writers block and can't think of the words, you can be pretty sure you'll have some damn good music until those lyrics decide to show up. Life experience gives you more to write about but if you don't like expressing yourself in a direct manner, encode it just like the blues greats from years ago did!
Most of all, music should be fun not a chore. Enjoy yourself and if the inspiration isn't coming, leave it and feed it until it does because forcing it usually doesn't improve the situation.
Wow! What a truly wonderful and detailed comment! Thank you ever so much my friend!! I really appreciate the huge amount of thought you put into this! It shows how much understanding you have and how much you care!!
@@Producelikeapro Thanks very much for your kind words Warren, but all credit goes to you for bringing up this subject as it does need to be talked about so that people can get it off their chest and know that they are not alone. Thanks also for being so humble and for sharing your extensive knowledge of music production with us all. It is very much appreciated!!
hands the down best channel on yotube
Thank you ever so much Max! That really means a lot!
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 couldn’t agree more!
You are an amazing human being. Thank you for this video and all your hard work. This came right on time. Thank you!
Hi Alma Vieja that’s means so much to me and all of the team and PLAP community my friend! I really appreciate your kind words!
@Alma Vieja - For me, too! But there's no such thing as 'coincidence' ;-)
agreed
I'm now 59, I've been bed ridden twice, almost made it in the music biz once. From my experience, don't ever stop. If you love what you do... just do... listen only to your inner voice, smile, love and have fun with others even if they don't understand you... it's all so wondrously joyful... really.
RK 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 agreed 100%!
Thanks Draven, all the best
You're a gift Warren. This is really important stuff. Thanks for your transparency.
Thanks ever so much Brandon!!
I tried to quit smoking yesterday... I didn’t have any for 2 hours. So I had to go to the pharmacy to get some medic. I went in and I was like can you give me Marlboro Reds please? I meant Panadol Extra! Lmao
I'm a never smoker, but I relate to this so much 😂! I keep trying and trying to fix so many different things and feeling like I'm hitting a wall over and over again with my body, the hours in a day, continual sleep deprivation because I never know when I can be this strong again, and am always peaking later into my waking hours. I wake up having to start all over again motor neurally like it's Groundhog Day. It can take me six hours to pull myself into a presentable syncopation. Naturally I'm afraid to sleep. I know I need to sleep. I just don't look forward to the set back.
Thank you so much again, Warren. So timely as I’m struggling to even get tracking my new song. I was actually thinking of changing my artist name to “Crippling Self Doubt”.
"This too shall pass" - Thank you for those very encouraging words, dear Warren! And yes, good to know this doesn't only happen to me! I am indeed in such a phase right now where there just seems to be nothing that would would spark my Passion to be creative. I've been very limited in that respect for quite some time too, after I had fallen on tough times last year which resulted in me really just trying to survive on a day-to-day basis (as opposed to actually 'living'). I do sometimes have a strum on my acoustic and had also joined a covers band as their bassist a couple of months ago for some extra money and als just to 'get back into it', however that one doesn't really seem to be taking off. While of course I'm still grateful for the things I do have in my Life, I've been feeling terribly unfulfilled. I miss composing and recording Music, also when it comes to collaborating with others. But yes, I've been doing my best to stay optimistic, knowing this too shall pass eventually. Again thank you! Have a fabulous weekend! :-)
The Mighty 'V' Thad BK ever so much for your kind words! It really helps our community here! I also really appreciate your openness and willingness to share with our community. Not feeling alone was one of the biggest parts of my own personal growth and helped me to overcome so many obstacles! Tanks for sharing!
@@Producelikeapro - So true, the "community" aspect. Funnily, the most encouraging, understanding people are ones I haven't met in person yet ;-) I know the old stuff had to leave my Life in order to make room for 'New', 'Bigger' and 'Better', which is on its way to me :-) All the best to you too, andto everyone else also :-)
I will never mix multiple songs in one session but if I'm tracking a band live I just let the "tape" roll ABR (always be recording) digital storage is cheap and sometimes the best take is the practice
Thanks Warren, needed to hear this today.
Mike W you’re very welcome!!
What really helps, when you're dealing with depression, is exercise. There's a video on RUclips : 2.11 Exercise: Nature's Medicine for Depression and Stress.
Soundclass thanks ever so much for sharing that! Yes, if a depressive can get out of their funk enough to do that it works extremely well! I find the reality is getting the self confidence built up enough to exercise that will help maintain clarity of thought and confidence! It’s breaking through the first hurdle is so tough for so many people!
@@Producelikeapro Sometimes, the TD aspect of depression can prevent the getting of exercise, but even just having an hour on a drumkit can be enough. Often, other things need implementing before the exercise can be brought in, but that will go a long way to helping to prevent worsening depression.
@@DavidAndrewsPEC absolutely my friend! Thanks ever so much for sharing your thoughts!
@@Producelikeapro
No worries, friend! :)
There is a really cool video on RUclips somewhere ... a lecture on depression by Prof. Robert Sapolsky, a seriously neat guy on faculty at Stanford University.
One of the things I'd have loved to have done would have been to study the interaction between participation in musical activity and both resilience against depressogenic stress AND resurfacing from deeper depressive states.
Sadly, no funding available. :/
Thank you Warren. I'm a constant Imposter Syndrome sufferer. The point of standing on the shoulders of giants is a great one! Soooo glad to hear from someone with your background that I'm not alone. I may watch this daily lol. Thanks Mate
Thank you for addressing this topic, Warren.
I've learned not to hide this feelings anymore. I talk to my fiancee and my friends about it and try to be as open as I can. Keeping it all to yourself is a slow and silent killer. Talk to people you trust, ask for help if necessary, try to cherish the good things you have and try not to let the bad things overwhelm yourself. Don't be afraid to be weak once in a while. Sounds easier than it is but that's my way to try to cope with it. It took me more than 30 years to get to this insight and there are still times when this feelings grab me from behind to give me a hard sucker punch.
Thanks for bringing this stuff up. Well, that's what happens to me almost every time I try to sit and write some piece of music. Sometimes I get lucky when I ignore thoughts like "this is shite, how dare you?"and actually finish the song. I get even luckier when I decide to have the balls to record it. And it’s always a genuine surprise when later I get people’s positive reaction to a tune!
I have PTSD.
Anxiety and insomnia are my worst symptoms, but depression definitely creeps in. 1. Don't give up on yourself. 2. Find the courage to seek help, if needed. 3. So many people around the world suffer from anxiety and depression, and are successful in many different occupations. Stay committed to what you love. 4. Whatever it was/is that helps you in your struggles, please share it with others.
Thank you Warren for your courage and leadership on this topic.
I really love this community. VR - Ron
Dear Walker Koldplay thank you so much Ron. It means so much that you would share such an important and personal part of your life with us.That was extremely brave of you my friend! You are beacon of positivity in our community and we are so much better for you being a part of it! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredible words of support, you are helping so many! God bless you!
Amazing words of support Ron, something that I myself will note and come back to. Like Warren said you definitely are a beacon of positivity in our community!
Oh man, thanks warren, i don't know how, but your videos always seem timed prfectly to my life. Just wanted to tell you, that video at least made one guy a bit more aware of his self-motivational bone. Literally everything in this video is my present life. except that eq automation thing, i will have to try that !:) Bless you, man
Sometimes I feel all my vocal takes are crap. But when I return a week or two later they don't sound all that bad. It's that accursed laser focus. I need to back off a few steps and see the larger picture. It doesn't have to be 100% perfect. It's more important that it has feel and works in the bigger picture of the song.
+Lasse Huhtala. "Laser focus" -- great term! I'm a big fan of "living with" tracks. In other words, take a breather, don't listen to a track for a day or two and then come back to it with fresh ears. It can mean the difference between night and day, crap and triumph.
Humility is a great thing. I have suffered from a battle between low self esteem and arrogance.
Humility helps me to remember that I am no better than anyone else, yet no one else is better than me.
In my humble opinion, humility is not being weak, or allowing yourself to be walked all over,. I once thought that was what humility was.
To me, humility is being strong, acknowledging my strengths and weaknesses without judgement, and being able to do the same for others, in a beneficial way.
Great topic. When I have self-doubt, I find two things that help. The first is to tell everyone else to take a hike (to rid myself of distractions and bad vibes). The second is to remember why I do it. I cannot recall the exact quote by Ned Rorem. But basically, I compose because I have not yet heard what I want to hear.
Warren, this couldn’t have come at a better time.
I’m about to release my first album, and I’m constantly conflicted with self-doubt, worry, etc. I’m constantly comparing my music and production to others, which i know can be toxic but i do it anyway. It has caused me to take way longer than necessary with my album. But I’m currently in the mastering phase with a grammy winning mastering engineer, and despite a few hiccups in this phase I’m pushing through to the finish line.
You’ve helped me more than you know with ALL of your videos, and I hope to someday repay you for that. Much love and respect,
Tim
I go through depression for about 1 to 2 weeks at a time at least once every month or two and it's worst in the late fall and winter. I also have become much more critical and find it harder to create the more technical I get, and the more musical I try to make my music. I feel less sure and more insecure about the quality of my work, despite everyone around me saying it is much better than my previous work. I used to think I was talented and hot shit and could write several songs a week. Now things are sounding the way I want them, and the songs are much better, but my writing has slowed down immensly and I struggle to create because I am so critical of myself and how I want the final products to turn out
Great topic. Its amazing how your attitude can change from day to day about different projects.
A really wonderful video Warren. On camera you seem the ultimate image of possitivity - so it's actually very helpful to hear that you also suffer like the rest of us. Thank you for sharing :)
Thanks ever so much my friend! I really appreciate it!!
I deal with doubt on the street corner. Two hours busking and I get to give joy, play freely, feel those whose struggle is clearly greater than mine and get some practice in. One of those things has broken every funk I've had in the last 7 years. Cheers!
Great topic Warren. In my 66 years on this planet, I discovered early on that music and music makers and other creative's are without doubt, the best group of people you could spend time with. I have continued to do that. The Internet and Utube in particular help to facilitate this. Keep up the good work Warren!
Regards
LS
Love your point about being humble but I kind of feel, that the people with the biggest mouth always get the jobs that I could do better
Hi KaiUlrich thanks for sharing your opinion! My experience is putting yourself into a position to succeed doesn’t take a loud mouth, persistence it what it takes to succeed. We’ve all come up against people who talk themselves up, trust me, I’ve experienced more than my fair share of that! However, there is more to getting a gig, especially as a mixer and/or producer, it’s results! Great results will always speak for themselves!
Great episode Warren, “the funk” is very real so thank you for your insight.
Joe Guam thanks ever so much! I appreciate it!
I try to remind myself:
Beethoven could have thought "what's the point" after hearing JS Bach. But he was true to his own voice and kept writing.
Every artist feels self doubt, at times heavily. The doubt is not YOU. The doubt is not correct. The doubt is something to be kicked to the side and ignored.
If I have no artistic juices flowing easily, I spend some time learning a part of my craft better (getting sounds, learn some new chords, maybe try some new plug-ins, favorite artist histories, etc.)
Hi Thaddeus Corea that’s a wonderful thing to remember! Yes, those that came before us should inspire us! Thanks ever so much for sharing your experiences with us. That really helps us all on our community!
I've had all those issues in my life and they've affected my music greatly, to the point where it is hard to do anything. Partly a paralysis because of the enormity of a task and partly something we call tardive dyskenesia: this very slow motoric state that comes with serious/clinical depression.
I'm still using behavioural activation and task analysis, which I mentioned previously. I'm currently a couple of rhythm guitars away from a beer or two, and they will be earned in the morning!
Been in this state for so long now that I cannot remember very well not being in it.
@Warulven
My best efforts, because heart failure is a thing (as is metabolic syndrome NOS), centre on taking at least one shopwalk per day ... it's a 1km round trip that, even with meds, is very tough on my entire body.
For 15 or more years, these bellends were treating me for asthma that it turns out I didn't have. That will have caused damage.
One tries. And sometimes, it's fun.
Studying humans: with a BASc-equivalence in psychology & engineering physics w/ archaeology & anthropology, a M. Ed. in educational psychology and a C. P. S. E. in applied ethnopsychology, I'mma give people-watching a miss ... maybe some experimental organic chemistry involving ethanol. ;)
@Warulven
I thank you. Just as Warren does, you make me blush!
But, really, it is this community. And I'm just - and gratefully so - a wee part of it. We all come in with our experiences and understandings and we can check things out with each other. This is a good thing. The fact that Warren puts questions up and then makes space for us to discuss them makes him a truly wonderful and amazing man. If anyone is amazing, I honestly think it's him rather than me: I'm just a guy that manages to use scientific findings to overcome certain limitations that he experiences in his life. What is amazing is this community and the man around whose work it has convened, and - in particular - his attitude of openness to, and respect, for his audience.
If I'd the money, I'd be enrolled with his academy but, since I'm on a shitty wee pension, I give from my own expertise to the community of people that he inspires with his work. If people find it useful and go with it - fantastic. It's stuff I learned and applied and for which there is a good evidence base. I'd not share otherwise. But I'm just one of many that contributes here and the real 'amazing dude' is Warren.
Thank you, though. :)
You made me feel and think rather positively about myself. That makes a change for me! ;)
I need the confidence to release my music. I spend so much time learning how write, record, mix and then when Im done and still insecure about how people will enjoy or not enjoy it, its soul crushing for me
I was thinking the same thing before our first album. Thinking that it's crap. When it was released it got all rave reviews and even made a couple of best of the year releases. Not one bad review in 20 or so online magazines. Even Classic Rock magazine gave it an 8 out of ten.
I still don't think it was that good. LOL
Oh and my advice is hire a pro to mix and master it. But be there during the mix
I for sure have been so humbled by someone's talent to the point that it made me feel as if I should be better for the time and intensity I've invested.
Depression is the devil. Yet it can be an incredibly rich source of creativity. Such a mindfuck. The dangerous slippery slope is believing that you have to be depressed to produce anything good. It’s a weird juggling act. I don’t have any answers other than stay alive and keep creating.
Thanks ever so much Daniel for sharing your thoughts with us! It means a lot and helps us when we share our experiences, knowing you are not alone is huge!!
how to get out of a funk - I am fortunate in that I am also a professional carpenter (albeit retired). So, I have an outlet for when I am not "up to snuff". I take a few pieces of wood and either cut them to toothpicks or attempt to build something. Most of the time it is nothing worth anything but just the process gets me out of my head. That being said, the first time I really had this "funk" was after having the honor to hear Vladimir Horowitz play. I sat second row, basically right next to him. I was a beginning piano/keyboard player (this was probably the biggest reason for my resultant questioning. Here I was, sitting next to one of the greatest classical pianists of all time, I got to talk to his tech, Frank, for 2 days prior, and now I am watching a MASTER wield his craft. WHO AM I!? That one took a while to get over. Finally I was sitting at the piano just doing some exercises and came to the conclusion that I would never get better than I was if I didn't start getting past "myself" and move forward. That was 1986! Here I am, in 2019, sitting in my home studio, working on 3 personal projects at the same time (all 3 wildly different styles), trying once again to get out of my own way when this video comes up. I can't thank you enough, Warren! Now, let's get some music made....
Question 1: i've also feel like it many times, i'm reaching 40 next year, just coming back on música production and engeniring after a very long depressive and poor period of time, i'm always ask myself if i should keep doing it or if theres any chance of success in music for me, and the only answer i get is, i don't know anything else, i love working with music, musicians, artists etc. I don't really know where i'm supposed to be... But i know i'm in the right path
Hector Madrigal I think of you love it you should do it. I know happy people who are poor and miserable who are rich. The real value is doing what you love, and knowing you are great at it!
Thanks, my faith sometimes weakens but i feel i'm doing the best for me and my beloved ones, as the great Paul McCartney would Say, thanks for the "words of wisdom" i'm trying my best everyday and i'm commited to my work/passion in body and soul
You rock, Warren ... totally rock! Thanks for touching on the important topic of self-doubt and its effects! And, yes, I go through it on a somewhat regular basis. "This too shall pass."
Thanks for the opening subject Warren, good of you to think of it.
Hi maestro phil thanks so much my friend! That’s very kind of you to say!
@@ProducelikeaproLovely to get a reply from you, been following you for many months now and I don't know how you find the time to do so much! Videos, interviews, recording, and keep on top of it all. Your very much admired and appreciated may I say and keep up the good work.
Selfdoubt&pain is a great topic to talk openly about. It helps people to get a real perspective. For me it helps trying to see my sad and helpless feelings not as "bad" or "negative" feelings. But fear and anxiety, with these it is hard to deal with in a constructive and positive way. Sharing helps a lot.
Warren, yours words are spot on.
All of us suffer the frustration. Music comes from the heart, it's built in us all. Follow your feelings. Your feelings and heart will guide you.
If all us made the same music, then how boring that would be, listening to the same thing.
Its magical that we all think different on making music. That's why we all have the luxury of variety.
So, crack on my fellow producers, we are the MUSIC MAKERS.
PEACE.
For videos like this, this channel its the Best. Warren always talk with many wisdom...god bless you warren.
Thanks ever so much my friend! I appreciate your kind words!
@@Producelikeapro no. Thanks for your work. You're a wonderful person. The best of your channel its how you talk about things more from the audio and music things...
Smile and be happy for what you have! You're alive! Live life to it's fullest to the best of your abilities! Be excited and thrilled that your daily journey is a marvelous adventure with challenges to overcome which allows you to feel fullfiled and satisfied and have a wonderful sense of accomplishment! Which will make you feel GOOD!
Breath deeply and get plenty of fresh air! More oxygen will make you happy!
Get outside and set yourself into motion and release all the built up stress and tension.!
Strive to eat the healthiest and tastiest food possible and be more healthy and happy!
Get plenty of sleep which allows you to have a relaxed state of mind !
Think positive!!!
Be of cheerful heart and sing and dance and play music!!!
Learn and grow and develop your abilities and skills and share your wealth of experience and knowledge with others so that they may be enlighten!!!
Just like Warren does on Produce like a Pro !!!
Keep on being AWESOME!!!
Wow! Perhaps the most difficult topic you’ve ever taken on board in this series. It’s a huge topic, underpinned by so many factors underlying the original reasons you even decided you wanted to make this a path for you, let alone a career. For me, it also opens up the memories that I haven’t always made the best of the opportunities presented to me, or always known exactly where I wanted to take the music I was creating. I could also mention that despite being a reasonable guitarist - after so many years - I let things drop, I got sidetracked, I bounced in and out of my musical persona; at times, hanging more onto the memory of it than the day to day reality. Now, as I’ve grown older, it’s more and more difficult to find the time to be the musician I would love to be and the reality of being an older player, attempting to swim in a vast tide of talented younger, players, performers, writers, engineers, all of who appear somehow better equipped, better suited and better looking. This for me , can become an insurmountable brick wall. Doubt wheedles its way into to every last corner of my confidence and so the rot begins. BUT, I come back and I keep coming back. I come back to making music for all the very important reasons; for my creative outlet, for my love of music, for the act of doing rather than the act of attempting to achieve. It won’t lie dormant for ever. In the last year and half, I’ve pushed out again, against the rot, brought some air and light into the dark corners and some colour back into the black and white. I watch this channel because I’ve not only gained hundreds of useful, practical tips for engineering, mixing and production, but I’ve seen people and heard their stories; felt their joys and passions, sensed their tremendous love for this thing they do, admired the depth and articulacy of their genuine love and interest and yes, maybe they have made more of their opportunities, maybe they have received a level of credibility through a certain level of success, but behind all of that, I sense there is a pure drive to be a part of this magical, magnificent and beautiful tradition, a soul-search, a desire that masks the inexpressible need for them to do, rather than just observe, do something similar; write, play, record, engineer, make real and be a part of the big music party. Whatever the outcome, whatever the audience, whatever the music; there is as much joy and happiness to be had just doing. Life is fulfilling enough when you’re engaged in a pursuit that focuses its aims on the inexpressible, because the wonder IS in the doing, in the moment and not necessarily in the outcome. Keep going, keep busy. Make music.
Hi Warren! Thanks for yet another great video. ❤️ I am bipolar, and that can be horribly frustrating for a creative person. When I’m manic, I can passionately write songs 24 hours a day without even a pee break. I eat, sleep, and dream music. (If I even sleep.) It is also very easy at that time to think I’ve written the greatest masterpiece the world has ever heard. I play my stuff for my kids, husband, friends... and when they don’t show total enthusiasm for the songs, I think “well what do they know about music anyway.” Then in a few weeks, I completely wear myself out. I go back into depression and there isn’t an ounce of creativity or passion left. I’ll listen to a song and wonder how I even thought it was good. Maybe weeks or months later, the manic phase kicks in again and I do it all over again (sometimes with my music, sometimes my photography, sometimes crafts.) I think I probably have 30 or 40 half-written songs from when I fizzle out. (At least 20 years’ worth.) Back in my 20’s, it was easier to write while depressed. Now in my 40’s, it’s the opposite. And when I step back during my depression to listen to other peoples’ stuff, I feel sooooo inferior.
Anyway, it’s very difficult, but I think most creative people have issues like this. We’re wired differently. 🤷🏻♀️
Thanks a lot for this Warren! Dealt with anxiety all my life and it's a struggle but also an amazing life lesson if you let it become one. Find out what makes you tick and what treatment works best for you. Mindfulness, other forms of meditation, try it all as long as it won't harm you! You are NEVER alone! All the best everyone! CT
Persisting with mindful meditation over the last 15 years helped me learn to wrangle my thoughts. It cured my insomnia and gives me some power to reframe destructive thoughts and replace them with sayings like "the forest would be a very quiet place if only the birds with the best voices were allowed to sing", "perfect is the enemy of good", and "lack of a good singing voice never held back Bob Dylan or Neil Young". It's important to focus on the journey rather than obsessing about the destination. Finish things quickly and move on to the next project.
Loveee the first part on this vid.. SUCH good advice and your absolute love for the art of making music shines through!
Thanks ever so much my friend! So glad to be able to help in any way I can!
We all experience down periods of time. An old friend of mine is manic depressive. He was one of the most creative people I ever knew. When he was up, he could crank out patents by the bucket load. When he was down, he was a curmudgeon. We learned to support him on his down days, and get out of his way on the good days.... me, just have to find something to get excited about, like watching one of Warrens videos....
Brilliant! Thank you for the Automation EQ on the kick and for being so cool
I'm constantly going back to view your older posts. There is so much useful information in every video. I honestly don't understand how you don't have 10 times the subscribers. Thank you for your generosity in giving us top notch advice on a regular basis. You are appreciated!
You’re very wise and thank you for your help
Thanks ever so much
thanks for answering this question so well. I know that there are many of us "creatives" who all deal with the dark side, including any number of incredibly successful people like you said. Music heals the mind. In my experience that is undeniable. It is a gift and a curse. But it is why we are here.
My god Warren.......this has to be one if the most raw and cut to the bone video's you've ever done. We do suffer for our art, some more susceptible to the pain than others but problems shared are problems halved. For each generation of musicians, composers and producers that follow the last, it got a little easier. Until the millennium and then the music industry train wreck happened. The whole concept of the music industry has been in self doubt and loathing on a super binge level ever since. LOL
New to the channel, but this video title piqued my interest. I wanted to share:
I actually just began making music again, this month. It's been almost six years since I sat down and tried to write. Not because of self-doubt, at first, but more getting swept up in life and losing the free time to practice and create. I had toyed with the notion of getting back to it again for a while, but I have had a dark cloud of self-doubt over my musical capabilities for the past few years, now, mostly stemming from the fact that I have had to put that part of my life away in lieu of 'adulting' and 'responsibility' and such.
Not to bore you with details, but I've dealt with massive depression over the past few years, and I wound up in counseling. By some miracle, my therapist is a musician in his free-time / on the side. He and I began dedicating huge chunks of our sessions just to talk shop about music (past performances, songs we were/are proud of, etc.). Though I'm still very timid and intimidated at how much time has passed since my 'glory days,' by his insistence and support I've decided to give it another go. I'm so so very glad I did, and I'm grateful to him for nudging me back into it.
I don't think the solution was necessarily 'going the therapy,' so much as it was finding a kindred spirit to bounce ideas off of and talk to. I believe we can make a mess of stuff by keeping it between our ears, and sometimes we just need a sounding board and someone who has the will to push us to do what we know we should be doing, but are terrified to try. That was the case for me, at least.
Needed to hear this today! Thanks Warren, always enjoy watching your videos. I'm glad you took the time to share your experience in a topic that many people don't feel comfortable talking about.
Hi Jameson Burton Thanks ever so much my friend! Yes, this means a lot to so many of us!
Thank you for talking about depression with us. Music can sometimes be ecstatic and creates huge downs the next day or week...at the end of a tour is the most common for me...and yes it does pass ultimately
I'm a pure hobbyist in mixing and doing music and although it is a passion for years now (I'm 57), I do not have the stress to make a living out of my creativity and talent in music (mixing, producing and/or performing) BUT I can imagine what it can be to go through "the funk" and how it can affect you as a pro in the music industry. As usual Warren, your insights are so helpful and imprinted with thoughtfulness. Thank you so much and happy mixing and producing! Greetings from a little place lost in the middle of France.
Thanks, Mr. You helped me believe in myself again. Greetings from Argentina.
You're very welcome my friend!!
The timing of this video is perfect for me and my situation and so was Anita's recent post in the academy about this issue. I had reached a point where my day job that I'd had for over 30 years frankly became unbearable for me to stay at and I left. I'm a guitarist first and foremost and have played and gigged on the side for almost 40 years. I have kids and a mortgage and all the other things that require income and before I go get another full time day job I'm seeing how much work I can get by increasing my gigs, recording/mixing/producing in my studio, being an online session musician, giving guitar lessons and doing minor guitar repairs and setups. I'm also finishing recording and producing my own album. I swim in this sea of doubt sometimes that I can do all these things and pay the bills because I don't have a lot of experience in the recording/engineering/producing area. Then I look back at what I left for just a moment and I turn my head around and look forward again. I take note of how I became a very proficient player through patience, lot's of practice and performance. I see what I've learned from being in the academy and from the members I've met and I start to think more positively about the situation. For myself I feel first and foremost I have to make myself have the proper attitude, then make myself set a goal, envision myself achieving that goal then make myself stay persistent at achieving it. I totally agree with "This too shall pass" and also I'd add "Never give up!" Thanks for having such a wonderful academy and sharing so much Warren!
Open hearted and honest! Very good of you to speak about your challenges and strategies. A very simple tip that works for me is a list of things I need to do. Just get them all listed and out there. Then start doing what you can. The satisfaction of reviewing it later on and ticking things off really gets you out of the "I'm not getting anything done" funk, and helps you realise what you achieve all the time.
And it just goes back and back further. Lennon and McCartney used to talk about standing on the shoulders of giants. Beethoven would have been nothing without Handel. ;) Also, when the hard self doubt hits, I try to remember that I don't like a lot of music at first, but come to love most music as it grows on me. The songs I've worked hardest on seem to work this way. I don't hate any song I've busted my butt on (not many).
I am a music degree students and I have studied producers like Quincy Jones and others. Most of these people have been through really tough times and those tough times have inspired the best music.
Dealing with self-doubt can affect a person in any walk of life, in any area of our lives, at any age.
I've dealt with this issue on occasion in my professional career (in three different careers), and including music, which was my first career path.
I've noticed that it often comes when we are overly critical of ourselves, or have unrealistic expectations for ourselves. I ALWAYS expect myself to be the best at things, to learn the most the fastest, and to be highly successful at everything.
I don't think it's a bad thing to set high expectations for myself, I think it's a good thing. It helps me push myself, and it helps me to evaluate results with a focus on what I need to learn or improve.
When this becomes a problem, and it leads to layers of slef- doubt, anxiety, depression, being needlessly overly critical of myself, beating myself up, losing motivation, questioning and second- guessing everything, is when falling short of expectations causes me, for some reason, to be excessively harsh, overly critical, beat myself up needlessly for things that really aren't worth it.
The key is to be honest with yourself about mistakes, failures, or just falling short of expectations, learn from what you did wrong, why you made those mistakes, how you came to make those mistakes, the decisions that led to Falling short of expectations, what you could have done better at what point in time, and were there any opportunities along the way to anticipate, and to see what was coming so that you could have changed your course and possibly come out with a better outcome.
Once you have honestly looked at what you have been through, and this is sometimes more difficult to do until you really get yourself in the mindset to be able to do it is to just let it go. Don't hold onto regrets, don't hold onto grudges, don't keep yourself up at night, don't keep pouring over the same mistakes in the same decisions, once you know where you fell on your face or were you just fell short of where you wanted to be, and why, you've gotten all you can out of that. Let it go. Turn the page, take a breath, and start thinking about what's coming next, and live in the moment you are in right now.
The only point in time that you can affect with any action or any decision is the moment you are in right now. You can plan for what's coming, you can prepare for the future, but you better be ready to act on that future becomes the present. But you can't do a damn thing about the past. You can't change the past, you can't hide the past, you can't make it go away and you can't bring it back. Learn what you can from it and let it go. That has been the most important thing in by not having to deal with major self-doubt for quite some time.
Thank you, Mr. Huart!
Hi Asstaroth thanks ever so much!! I’m glad to be able to help!!
I’m usually easily frustrated and as nearly everyone have phases of self doubt, but I found that when I listen back to old recordings or mixes from say five years ago and compare them to what I do today, even in the darkest hour i can’t help but notice that I do actually get better. Slowly, but steadily. And I need to say to myself that I do music for a hobby and there’s no use comparing myself to professionals who invest way more time than I’ll be able to do.
Sometimes I’m actually kinda proud of myself;)
I've been afraid all my life; and at times I've hated "music", the "musos", the "educators", "me", & I've given up so many times. I can really say, that musically I've not improved in 18 years.
I went from being a guitar-playing big fish in a small pond, to a minnow in a vastly talented world of sharks. This was music college, & degree - level music; a reason I through in the towel.
Living in your own "dream world" of music, & then realising you're not ***insert musician here***, you model yourself after is a very bitter pill to swallow. But, it didn't start this way.
I started because I just wanted to MAKE A SOUND like the Beatles / Motown / 80's Top 40. And at some point that went away.
I implore everyone who's having trouble, to scale it all back to picking up an instrument, app, whatever their working on & just start small (30 seconds a day - small) & start again. This is a message for 14 year old me, as much as anyone out there, & if I can reach other's please listen! I'm starting again at 39, & no, it's not comfortable. But I can't put it down. I have to play.
Thanks for such a great channel Warren, & talking about this type of thing. It's been swept under the carpet for far too long.
Hi Toni Siret Thanks ever so much my friend! Sharing your experiences with us helps so many people in our community my friend!!
Toni Siret I wish you all the best and I want you to know you are not alone!
Great one Warren and most may not understand or want to. I could go on. But thanks so much.
Hi Simone white you’re very welcome!!
Let the good times roll. 👍
Thanks A.D!
1st it was the Tech award... next, Mental Health Award. Warren, you always deliver with impeccable timing. bless you and all viewers.
thank you brother ....subject close to my damn heart..........love your honesty on first subject
Thanks ever so much my friend! That's very kind of you, I am happy to share!
Really appreciate what you do Warren ✌🏾
Thanks ever so much!!
"I know I"m good at what I do." Rats, now that I've said that, I feel those recriminating self-doubts rise up again. "No, I'm not good at anything." Then the funk begins. It's a vicious cycle and you can't manage it alone. We were created to be relational beings. The reason this channel works so well is because of Warren's ability to build relationships with us, even if not one on one. Humility is the key to dealing with self-doubt, I was amazed at Warren discussing that. Humility is also the key to not thinking more of yourself than you ought to. If I could actually be honest on a consistent level, I would be honest enough to admit that I'm good at what I do and so are others. I'm not "better" than someone else because I'm good at something but I shouldn't beat myself up because of admitting I'm good at something. I never want to be the guy that thinks I'm better than I am, so I constantly "check my ego" and almost always overdo it. Having said all this, it's not to ramble on and make it all about ME. I'm past the 50 year mark and post this for those who are in the earlier years of their lives. It's ok to admit you're good at something. It's better to admit that others are good at something. It's best to balance your self-view with humility and embrace your talents and learn to grow and share what you have to offer in relationships with those around you. You really do have something to offer that no one else has! (And I know how hard that is to live out because I more often fail than succeed on that score.)
Thank you ever so much, Warren. Unbelievably timely! I discovered your channel just a few months ago as I'm going about changing myself from being a guitarist-for-hire to being a singer/songwriter, who, of course, has to self-produce because of the dreaded budget limitations! My favorite part of this is your reminder that we are all standing on the shoulders of giants, even those whom we consider to be giants! I'm working really hard on changing the ever-present question in my mind from "Why?" to "Why not?" This was really inspiring. Thank you! --A new fan.
A question to consider please: When tracking/producing, do you copy-paste repeated parts or do you prefer to have the talent play the entire song from start to finish. Advantages or disadvantages?
Thanks Warren I think a lot of people myself included struggle with depression/self doubt music has been a huge help and release for me . A problem (writing/recording) it causes for me is finishing songs as I get so far with an idea think its great, then next day doubt creeps in and in my head it sounds crap and I move on. This drags down confidence,starts a cycle of self doubt and harddrives full of unfinished ideas. lf Im working with others this helps or not recording until the basic song is worked out properly.
I really appreciate this video man, Thank you.
Thanks ever so much my friend!!
This shirt colour suits you just as well as black Warren! Haha, seriously another fab episode, thanks!
Upon reflection my comment seems a bit flippant considering the seriousness of the first question. This is a real issue folks and Warren gives some solid advice here, hope everyone here can find a way to deal with doubts or insecuries they have, take care all.
One of the questions was about doubting one's musicianship. One way to get more out of the musicianship that you have is to write simple parts making sure you get a great tone and effects if necessary. It helps if you are a virtuoso, but it works as well if you play simple, interesting parts with good sounds and dynamic, emotional phrasing.
Wow this episode was a thing of beauty. It honestly touched me to hear you speak about these things in that way Warren. Reading some of the comments below really showed how comfortable people are now with this channel. My personal opinion is that if you can take the dark episodes in life and use them to create Art, however it manifests itself, then those feelings and struggles have not been for nowt. Some of the greatest music/art ever has come from a place of suffering. I remember you saying in a much previous video, to give ourselves a break too sometimes. To understand that with our busy daily lives it's ok to not be creating every minute of every day. I forget that sometimes. Thanks Warren, and all at Produce Like A Pro.
I was never conscious to these things much, just thought they were part of me. Now that I've met Jesus he has been teaching me what these are. It's a spiritual problem. Honestly since I started hearing in spirit I've come to realize that all of us are riddled with spirits. Its like the brain is fighting àginst it's self. So what I've been doing, is seeking the Kingdom of God. He instructed me to pray for peace and when it came it was AMAZING. Isn't always easy and doesn't always come when I want it, but our Father really brings me through the low points. The world is hard enough and then we get all the glam and dazzle; I appreciate what you said Warren. We are standing on something bigger then us.
Very interesting and informative. Thank you so very much for speaking to the self-doubt question. Of course I've had it in spades my whole life, but on some level I think it's made me work harder and become a better musician. Thanks again.
David Allen Hammond Thanks ever so much my friend! I know so many of us suffer from crippling self doubt, anxiety and depression. I do know that understanding we are not alone is a huge thing for me!
Fantastic video Warren, very inspiring words and i'm sure a great lift for those who struggle with mental health. Bless you sir.
Hi Simon! Thanks ever so much my friend! I really appreciate it!!
I use it!!! Without the range of emotions we feel, our music would all be rainbows and lollipops.... It allows us to add the raw human emotion that makes music real... if we don't allow our selves to feel it in life, how can we translate it into the music?
The rawness is what makes us drawn to the music... just like auto tune has wrecked amazing vocals in so much music, we need to be careful not to autotune our depression, doubts and anxieties- instead USE those emotions in your music. Put your sadness, your doubt, your fears into the songs. If you are sad, use it and translate it into the songs thru the guitars, and make them "talk" thru the odd chords or the make the overdriven electric guitar cry and whine, use effects to portray the feeling, add some unique grit to the vocals or even switch around the tempo. Let it all hangout! Add the pure raw driven emotion and pour it on thick! Get it in the project. It is a gift. Work with it, not against it. There are plenty of boring songs out there. Emotion needs to come thru when we hear it. People relate to what they feel and we all feel sad, depressed, anxious or doubt...the listener will be attracted to something that sums up how they feel and can relate to.
The best way to deal with your emotions is to WORK with them and use them. It keeps the music real and people will respond to it. The best records make people feel.... which is why we do what we do in the first place! Right?
Warren this is an amazing video myself and my brother suffer from depression/anxiety and it's just amazing to be part of a community where people understand and have similar problems. We are not alone :)
Thank you for that! We've lost quite a few wonderful musicians to mental disorders in the last few weeks alone, from David Berman to Neal Casal, so I think it's incredibly important to have a conversation about it. I'd just like to amend your "This too shall pass." by adding: Sometimes you just can't get out of it by yourself. So if you experience depression, don't hesitate to seek help, see a doctor or talk to a friend who went through the same thing before you.
wow , i ve found this old video while wasthru major self-doubt /depression.5:00, thank you Warren