Is Producing Music Your Calling? Tips from a Radio DJ and Producer

For those considering a career in music production, especially with the rise of social media platforms like YouTube, the line between wanting help and wanting to do it all yourself can be blurred. As a radio Top 40 DJ and pioneer in disco DJing, I have both the experience and the passion to share. This article unravels the intricacies of music production, offering valuable insights for aspiring producers or those simply interested in enhancing their music content.

My Background and Expertise

I have extensive experience in the music industry, having worked as a radio Top 40 DJ, a disco DJ, and a pioneer in specialized formats like country and oldies events. This breadth of experience allows me to produce a wide range of material, catering to diverse audiences. Now, I produce my own YouTube videos, achieving a total of 5.5 million views.

Secrets to a Successful YouTube Channel

How do I achieve consistent success on YouTube? The key lies in my approach to the content. My formula for success includes the following strategies:

1. Selecting Popular Music from the Past

I focus on popular music from the past but adapt it to today's standards. This means taking classic tracks and refining them to make them stand out, ensuring they resonate with a modern audience. Not only do I select the right songs, but I also enhance the audio quality to make them sound better than other versions available online.

2. De-Nosing and Stereo Conversion

One of my secret techniques is de-noising the source video to eliminate unwanted background noise. This ensures clean and crisp audio that enhances the listening experience. In some cases, I even convert the original mono audio to stereo, creating a more immersive sound. This technique not only improves the audio quality but also adds a layer of professionalism to the video.

3. Video and Audio Mixing

In addition to improving the audio, I also pay close attention to the visuals. For example, I've created a video where I layered two pictures to depict the artist's appearance in two different eras. The video itself is in color from 1977, but the sound is from 1961, creating a unique and engaging visual-audio experience.

Conclusion

Music production is a rewarding yet challenging field that requires a blend of creativity, technical skill, and a passion for music. As a radio DJ and experienced producer, I have honed my craft to create content that stands out on YouTube and resonates with my audience. For those looking to enhance their music content or considering a career in production, these tips can be invaluable. If you’re thinking about taking the leap, give it a try and let your passion for music guide you.

Additional Resources

For further inspiration and resources, consider diving into music production tutorials and exploring the work of established producers. Joining online communities and forums can also provide valuable insights and feedback.