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Hi folks,

I'm curious to hear what you all think:

In your career as engineers and producers, is it preferable to specialize in a particular style or genre...or two?

Or is it better to diversify as much as possible and avoid being categorized or pigeon-holed?

Let's hear your thoughts!

Jon

Comments

Guest Mon, 12/10/2001 - 17:51

Even those of us who are not looking to specialize sometimes become "specialists" by default. One or two successful projects in one genre leads to a lot of word of mouth and pretty soon enough other projects in that same genre are coming through the door that either you get pigeonholed as a specialist for that kind of music, or you just plain don't have time time to do much else.

I guess the secret is not to be too successful at anything, and then that won't happen! :D

PlugHead Tue, 12/11/2001 - 11:02

FWIW,

I don't think too many folks can hang tough on any one style/category to hone their skills. I believe diversity is the best method to gaining chops in the Production dep't. Seeing the way the business side of music is taking a severe hit financially ( don't know too many facilities booked solid, or even sporadic at best these days), I think diversify or die is the new mantra for almost everyone involved in production at this point in time.

Jay
PlugHead Productions

anonymous Tue, 12/11/2001 - 18:50

There is a studio near me that does that new metal sound and does it well. They are booked pretty solid. I think if you are doing something in a niche and do it real well you will build a rep. As long as you are real good at that niche.

I like doing pop-rock although I do roots music like blues,jazz and country well. Thought many times maybe to specialize in it as most bands really like what I do. Although it is not the styles I would like to do full time.