Finish the song.
Every artist I know has a folder of songs that are 80% done. Mine had a lot of them. Here's what finally got them out of the folder.
it's done when you sayThere's a voice that says it's not ready. The mix isn't right. The second verse is weak. Someone better would have done the bridge differently.
That voice is lying to you, a bit. Not completely. It's partly your taste, and your taste is good. But it'll keep you in the folder forever if you let it.
Done is a decision
A song is finished when you decide it is. Not when it's perfect. I've listened back to songs I released and heard things I'd change. I'm still glad they're out. Every one of them taught me something the next one needed.
Some things that helped me:
- Give yourself a deadline that isn't yours. A release date with a real label is a good one.
- Play it in the car. If it moves you on the drive home, it's done enough.
- Stop adding. If you're adding layers to fix a feeling, the song might already be there.
- Ask for one round of honest notes, then decide. Not five rounds. One.
Where we come in
If you want feedback, we'll give it, straight and kind. If you want it mixed or mastered, we can do that. If you just want it released exactly as you made it, that's fine too. No judgement here. Your song, your call.
And if you're stuck on one bit and can't get past it? Send it anyway. Tell us where you're stuck. Sometimes a second pair of ears is all it needs.
“A song is finished when you decide it is. Not when it's perfect.”