I’ve spent more time in recording studios than I care to admit, and let me tell you, the gear isn’t the only thing that needs to be dialed in. Sure, you might know your way around a compressor or have the perfect mic placement, but if you’re a pain to work with, none of that’s gonna matter. John McBride, legendary Nashville engineer and owner of Blackbird Studio, said it best: “Attitude is 90% of the job.” You could have all the chops in the world, but if you’re a jerk, you might as well pack up your guitar case and leave now—because no one’s calling you back.
In the studio, it’s about more than just the music—it’s about creating a vibe, building trust, and being the kind of person people actually want to spend 10+ hours a day with. Everyone can learn to EQ a vocal or set up a drum kit, but not everyone knows how to not be an asshole. So let’s break down the dos and don’ts of studio etiquette, so you don’t end up blacklisted faster than you can say “autotune.”
DO: Be early to the session
There’s an old saying in the industry: “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late. If you’re late, you’re fired!” Respect everyone’s time and make sure you show up prepared or you might not get a callback.
Pro tip: No one cares if there was traffic. Nashville always has traffic. Be professional and get there when you’re supposed to.
DON’T: Bring Your Whole Entourage
This isn’t Coachella, and you’re not the headliner. Leave your cousin, your girlfriend, and that one guy who “just wants to vibe” at home. Studios get crowded, and extra bodies can be distracting. Unless the producer or artist specifically asks for more people, keep it lean.
DO: Know When to Talk and When to Zip It
Here’s a golden rule: if the red light is on, your mouth should be closed. This might be the take of a lifetime, and no one wants to hear about your weekend plans during it. There’s a time and a place for feedback, and it’s not while someone’s tracking.
Pro tip: The right moment to talk is after the take, not before they hit stop. And if you’re unsure whether to say something, just wait—trust me, silence is golden in the studio.
DON’T: Wear Strong Perfumes or Cologne
Trust me, you don’t want to be the person who gives the entire studio a migraine because you decided to marinate yourself in cologne. The studio is a small, enclosed space, and your signature scent might be great for date night but not for a 10-hour session.
Pro tip: Stick to neutral smells. Shower, deodorant, and you’re good. No one needs eau de Studio B.
DO: Respect the Engineer’s Workflow
Here’s the thing: The engineer knows their gear, their room, and their process. You’re in their world, so let them do their job. Don’t hover, don’t micromanage, and don’t try to show them how you think it should be done. If you hired them, you’re paying them for a reason—because they know their stuff.
Pro tip: If you’ve got feedback, bring it up before or after the session, not mid-signal chain. Be respectful, and trust their expertise.
DON’T: Sit on Your Phone
Scrolling through Instagram while someone’s tracking is just rude. Plus, it’s distracting. And trust me, everyone notices—even if you’re sitting behind the console pretending no one can see you. If you’re not paying attention, why should anyone else?
Pro tip: Put your phone away and focus on the music. You’re here to create, not to catch up on TikTok.
DO: Bring Snacks (But Don’t Be Gross)
Studio sessions can be long, and you’re gonna need fuel. Snacks are a good move. Pizza grease on the faders? Not so much. Water is a must, but stick to snacks that won’t turn the control room into a mess. And if you’re bringing food for everyone, that’s a power move. Just don’t overdo it.
Pro tip: Granola bars, fruit, maybe a sandwich. Avoid anything that involves major clean-up or funky smells.
DON’T: Forget Your Manners
It sounds basic, but saying thank you goes a long way. Whether it’s thanking the engineer for a great session, or appreciating the producer for their input, showing gratitude makes people want to work with you again.
Pro tip: Clean up after yourself. Don’t leave trash behind. Respect the space, and leave it as you found it.
Wrapping It Up: Be Cool, Stay Humble
At the end of the day, the studio is a place where music is made, but also where relationships are built. People are going to remember how you made them feel in that session just as much as they’ll remember the music you made. Bring the right attitude, respect the space and the people, and you’ll not only make great music, but you’ll also make friends and connections that can last a lifetime.
Remember: attitude is everything, so leave the ego at the door, and come ready to create. In this industry, people talk. If you’re difficult to work with, word spreads fast. Everyone can learn how to set up a mic, but not everyone knows how to bring positive energy to the room. Bring the good vibes, and you’ll get called back every time.
