The recording process is a very detail oriented endeavor. Any preparation you can do ahead of time will save at least twice that much time when it comes to record. If you are recording your own band, rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Just because you are not paying someone else to record you doesn’t mean you should waste time in the studio. Time is too precious to be wasted on anything other than creative pursuits. If you are recording some else, you definitely don’t want to waste their time and if they feel comfortable and respected, their word of mouth will go a long way toward growing your client base. The following list is the order that instruments should be recorded. If you click on the item, it will take you to a more detailed page on how to record that instrument. In any case, try to record as many of the rhythm instruments (drum, bass and rhythm guitar, scratch vocal) at one time as you can at the same time to get that tight feel. If possible, make sure the drummer plays to a click track so everything will sync up when it comes time to editing the audio.
1) Drums
2) Bass
3) Rhythm Guitar(s) and “Scratch Lead Vocal”
4) Final Lead Vocal(s)
5) Lead Guitar(s)
6) Keyboards and Piano
7) Orchestral Elements
8) Background Vocals
9) Ear Candy