10 Tips for Beginners: What Artists, Producers, Musicians & Mixers Wish They Knew Sooner

Introduction: The Journey of Music Creation

Embarking on the journey of music creation is a thrilling blend of chaos, curiosity, and creativity.

Whether you’re an artist composing your first melody, a producer tweaking frequencies deep into the night, a musician fine-tuning arrangements, or a mixer sculpting sonic landscapes — there’s always more to learn. And sometimes, it’s the simple truths that stick.

The advice a seasoned pro might casually drop — “I wish I knew that sooner” — can save you months (or years) of trial and error.

In this guide, we’ve gathered 10 hard-earned insights that can elevate your workflow, your sound, and your mindset — no matter where you are on your creative path.

Let’s dive in.

Invest in Good Headphones

Your headphones are the window into your mix. If that window’s dirty, everything sounds a little… off. While budget earbuds may be fine for casual listening, serious work needs clarity and accuracy.

Budget: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x - Studio-quality sound without breaking the bank.

Mid-range: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro - Durable and balanced.

Premium: Sennheiser HD 600 - Used in top studios for pristine detail.

You don’t need the most expensive option — just something that gives you honest feedback on your sound.

Takeaway: You can't mix what you can't hear!

Explore Different DAWs

A DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is like your digital studio — and not all are created equal. Each has its own personality, workflow, and quirks.

Beginner-friendly: GarageBand (free for Mac users) is intuitive and surprisingly powerful.

Versatile: FL Studio is perfect for beatmakers and producers.

Pro workflow: Ableton Live and Logic Pro are staples in electronic and acoustic production alike.

Try the demos. Find your flow. Your DAW should feel like an extension of your creativity.

Takeaway: The right DAW can change everything!

Learn Basic Music Theory

You don’t need a classical degree, but knowing how chords, scales, and harmony work gives you creative control.

Music theory helps you make intentional choices instead of random guesses.

Free: YouTube channels like Michael New or 8Bit Music Theory.
Structured: Coursera or Skillshare offer in-depth, low-cost courses.

It’s like learning the alphabet before writing poetry.

Takeaway: Understanding chords will unlock your creativity!

Use Reference Tracks

Mixing without a reference is like drawing in the dark.

Import commercial songs in your genre into your session to A/B your levels, tone, and dynamics.

Match the vibe — not the exact mix. You’ll catch frequency imbalances and dynamic issues faster.

Tools like Reference by Mastering The Mix (mid-range) can streamline this process.

Takeaway: Reference tracks help you attain a professional sound!

Don’t Skimp on Plugins

Sure, stock plugins are capable — but specialized tools often go the extra mile.

Whether it's for EQ, compression, or creative effects, a great plugin can shape your identity.

Free: Spitfire Labs
Mid-range: Valhalla VintageVerb or iZotope Neutron.
Pro: Serum, FabFilter, or Omnisphere.

Start with what you need. Expand as your sound grows.

Takeaway: High-quality plugins elevate your sound!

Create a Workflow

Creativity thrives in chaos — but production thrives on structure.

Build a workflow that takes you from idea to export without missing a step.

Example: Sound selection → Arrangement → Mixing → Reference check → Export.

You can even use templates in your DAW to set the stage for every session. Over time, this minimizes decision fatigue and boosts consistency.

Takeaway: A structured workflow saves time and frustration!

Embrace Feedback.

Let’s be real — feedback can sting.

But it’s also your best tool for growth. Share drafts with mentors, producers, or trusted friends.

Platforms like BandLab or Kompoz allow for real-time, remote feedback.

If you’re ready for pro-level critique, consider platforms like SoundBetter or Discord music communities.

Pro tip: Ask specific questions, like “Does the low end feel muddy?” rather than “What do you think?”

Takeaway: Constructive criticism is your friend!

Regularly Clean Your Workspace

Creativity loves focus. A cluttered desk can silently drain your energy.

Clean cables, tidy surfaces, and labeled files make for smoother sessions.

Also, back up your work! Use external SSDs, or cloud solutions like Google Drive or Dropbox, especially for collaborative projects.

Nothing kills momentum like a missing session file.

Takeaway: A tidy space boosts productivity!

Network with Fellow Musicians

Behind every hit record is a team.

No matter how talented you are, connecting with others will expand your sound, skillset, and reach.

Attend local jams, beat battles, or open mics.

Join online communities:

Reddit's r/WeAreTheMusicMakers, SoundCloud groups, Discord servers.

Use Hostinger to build a personal portfolio site and showcase your work professionally.

You’re not just building tracks — you’re building your brand.

Takeaway: Collaboration leads to innovation!

Be Patient and Persistent

Imposter syndrome.

Creative blocks. Endless revisions.

These are all part of the process.

The key? Show up anyway.

Celebrate small wins: finishing a track, learning a new technique, or just making time to create.

Over time, consistency beats inspiration.

This isn’t a sprint — it’s a long, rewarding groove.

Takeaway: Progress takes time, but it's worth it!

Conclusion: Your Musical Adventure Awaits

Your journey as an artist, producer, musician, or mixer isn’t defined by your gear or your followers—it’s shaped by your curiosity, your consistency, and your ability to grow through trial and error.

These 10 tips won’t make you a pro overnight—but they will accelerate your progress.

So take the leap.

Set up your space.

Share your music.

Start now. The world’s ready to listen.