Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry recently discussed the significant changes in music production, particularly during his collaboration with British artist Yungblud. This experience highlights a shift from traditional studio sessions to more modular, computer-based recording methods.
Key Takeaways
- Joe Perry notes a major shift in music recording from live studio sessions to piecemeal, computer-based methods.
- His collaboration with Yungblud on the 'One More Time' EP involved no full-band, live playing.
- Perry views modern technology as a tool for creativity, not a detriment to 'real rock and roll.'
- The EP features four new songs and a cover of Aerosmith's 'Back In The Saddle.'
Evolution of Studio Recording
The landscape of music recording has transformed dramatically since Aerosmith began in the 1970s. Joe Perry, a founding member and lead guitarist of the legendary rock band, offers a unique perspective on this evolution. He recently worked with Yungblud on the 'One More Time' EP, an experience that diverged sharply from his early career.
Perry explained that the recording process for the EP did not involve traditional full-band, live sessions. Instead, the tracks were constructed in segments. This method contrasts with the classic approach where musicians gather in a studio to jam and record together.
Fast Fact
The 'One More Time' EP includes four new tracks, such as 'My Only Angel,' and a fresh take on Aerosmith's 1976 hit, 'Back In The Saddle.'
Collaboration with Yungblud
Working with Yungblud provided Perry with firsthand experience of contemporary production techniques. He noted that during the creation of the EP, "there wasn’t a single song that we did where we actually all played together." This statement underscores the move away from synchronous recording to a more layered approach.
The songs were assembled "in pieces," according to Perry. This process allows for greater flexibility and can bypass logistical challenges of getting all musicians in one room simultaneously. Despite the departure from his roots, Perry maintained an open mind about these modern methods.
"Music has changed so much," Perry stated, reflecting on the shift. "When we were working with Yungblud, there wasn’t a single song that we did where we actually all played together, you know?"
Creativity Over Tradition
Perry's observations suggest a pragmatic view of creativity in the digital age. He believes that the inability to gather everyone in a studio should not hinder artistic expression. "If you can’t get everybody together, live and in the studio, why let that get in the way of your creativity?" he questioned.
This philosophy embraces the tools available today, such as computers for recording. While Yungblud's band is known for its energetic live performances, the recording process for the EP utilized modern digital techniques. Perry acknowledged that younger artists like Yungblud likely record everything on computers, a common practice now.
Background
Aerosmith, formed in 1970, rose to prominence with their raw, blues-infused rock. Their early recording sessions were characterized by live, in-studio performances, capturing a spontaneous energy that defined their sound.
The Digital Recording Landscape
The shift to digital recording means that many artists today may not have experience with analog tape. Perry mentioned that Yungblud likely has never recorded on tape. This generational difference highlights how technology has reshaped the industry's foundational practices.
Perry's perspective is that the method of recording is less important than the final creative output. He challenges purists who might dismiss modern techniques as not being "real rock and roll." Instead, he suggests looking at it as an alternative path to artistic creation.
He emphasized, "The way you approach things, you can look at it by shaking your head, walking away and saying, ‘This isn’t real rock ‘n’ roll. This isn’t how it’s supposed to be.’ Or you can look at it another way."
Merging Old and New Approaches
Joe Perry himself has integrated modern technology into his own work. He admits that unless there's a specific desire to use tape for nostalgic reasons, recording directly to a computer is the standard practice now. This indicates a personal evolution in his recording habits.
The veteran guitarist finds the new methods enjoyable and effective. This blend of old-school sensibilities with cutting-edge technology allows artists to maintain their creative flow while adapting to contemporary industry standards. The collaboration with Yungblud served as a practical demonstration of this evolving dynamic in music production.
Key Statistic
Many modern musicians, particularly those who started in the digital era, record exclusively on computers, bypassing traditional analog equipment entirely.
The music industry continues to innovate, and artists like Joe Perry show that embracing new tools can lead to fresh creative outcomes, even for those with deep roots in traditional rock and roll.