Music Producing & Engineering
Course 17: Instrumental Overdubs

Though often taken for granted, overdubbing is one of the most powerful practices at a producer’s disposal. Overdubbing–i.e. the practice of recording new parts over an existing performance–was introduced into commercial music in the late 50s. It was a game-changer, giving musicians and producers unimaginable flexibility.

In this course, you’ll learn common methods for overdubbing, how various musical genres generally use overdubbing, building up parts of a song, recording overdubs, and more! You’ll learn about when to overdub from a creative point of view or when overdubs are necessary as a matter of function.

You’ll also learn how to plan for an overdub and different methods for overdubbing, including using different registers, stacking to add weight, using low volume to create rhythmic energy, and even adding the occasional licks to bridge the gaps.

At the end of the course, you will understand the process of recording overdubs, how they help the finished product, and be able to determine the worthiness of the overdub. Be able to determine the quality of the recorded overdubs and determine if they enhance the product. Your assignment, in addition to the course review, quiz, and blog entry, will be to overdub a preselected song using instruments of your choice.

Objectives:

• Understand the process of recording overdubs.
• Understand why recording overdubs can lead to a better-finished product.
• Be able to plan overdubs, which they will add to their own projects.
• Be able to determine which instruments will add to their arrangements in order to get their desired final product.
• Be able to determine the quality of the recorded overdubs and determine if they enhance the product.