By Production tips

Step 1: Open Cakewalk and Select the 4-Track Template

  1. Launch Cakewalk by BandLab on your computer.
  2. Open the Start Screen (File | Start Screen…).
  3. Select the New Project option on the left.
  4. From the list of templates, select “4-Track.cwt”.

The 4-Track.cwt template provides four pre-configured audio tracks, making it a great starting point for recording vocals along with other audio sources.

Step 2: Import the Bedtrack

  1. Locate your bedtrack file on your computer.
  2. Drag and drop the file onto Track 1 in Cakewalk.
  3. Set the correct BPM (Beats Per Minute) for your project to match the bedtrack.
  4. Align the audio file to the beat by examining the waveform and adjusting accordingly.
  5. Rename Track 1 as “Bedtrack” for easy identification.
  6. Assign a color (e.g., red) to the track for better organization.

Step 3: Set Up Song Sections

  1. Show the Arranger Track by pressing the shortcut “A”.
  2. Drag on the Arranger Track to create a section and rename it accordingly (e.g., Verse, Pre-Chorus, Chorus, Bridge).
  3. Repeat the process for the entire song, ensuring each section is clearly labeled.
  4. Use these labeled sections to navigate and structure your recording process more efficiently.

Step 4: Set Up the Vocal Track

  1. Locate an empty track and rename it as “Vocals”.
  2. Set the input source to match your microphone or audio interface.
  3. Assign a different color (e.g., blue) to distinguish it from other tracks.
  4. Arm the track for recording by clicking the record button on the track.

Step 5: Record the Vocals

  1. Set the playhead cursor a couple of measures before the point where you want to start singing.
  2. Press the Record button (shortcut “R”) to begin recording.
  3. Perform your vocal take.
  4. Press the Spacebar to stop the recording.
  5. Ensure that your vocal recording peaks at around -6 dB to -12 dB. This range provides a good signal-to-noise ratio, preventing distortion while maintaining a clean and professional sound.