Now let’s outline a practical routine for how to actually record, using the vocal preparation you’ve built so far.

Everyone has their own style, but here I’ll describe a relatively safe workflow that’s optimized for creating vocals that are easy to mix.

0. A Helpful Step Before Recording: Set the BPM

Before you start recording, it’s best to set the BPM (tempo) of your instrumental first.

• If you don’t know the BPM, you can estimate it using tempo-detection websites or plugins.
• Set your DAW project tempo to the measured BPM, then begin recording.

This must be done before you record. If you change the BPM after recording, you can end up with audio clips shifting position or falling out of sync.

Most DAWs default to 120 BPM, so if your song’s tempo is different, make sure you correct it before you begin.

1) The Basic Recording Flow

There are many ways to record, but I recommend this two-step approach:

Step 1: Record one full take from start to finish

Step 2: Record in smaller sections (by line or phrase)

Step 1: Record One Full Take

Record the song once all the way through. The goal here is not a “perfect take,” but to feel and confirm: