How Long Does It Take To Record A Song

The short answer is: it depends on several factors.

sheboygan recording singer-songwriter gal performing

Here is the long answer.

Factors That Affect How Long Song Recording Takes

There are two main aspects of recording songs in a recording studio.

  1. Recording: the musicians performing in the studio
  2. Production: the studio engineer and producer creating the finished product

Song recording factors that affect how long it takes to record a song

  • number of voices and instruments performing
  • how well prepared the performers are
  • if the song is being recorded live or by overdubbing
  • number of songs being recorded

Tip: recording more songs usually results in less time per song, because much of the same setup, mixing, and mastering can often be applied to all the songs.

Song production factors that affect how long it takes to record a song

  • preparation time with the recording engineer - varies by project
  • setup time - more performers requires more setup
  • recording time - see Song recording factors above
  • editing and pitch correction depends on performers and genre
  • mixing depends on number of performers and genre
  • mastering is optional and varies by genre
  • sharing varies by artist needs