there is no rule, some people start with the track first and then work a vocal in and then start to do additional arrangements after that to suit the vocal (if it's a vocalheavy track etc). some people get the vocal ready and build the track around it.

the trick is to get the vocal well living into the track like it was any other element, using the groove of the vocal melody to interact with the percussion or effects or melody for that matter.

also, a vocal take up a lot of room so it is wise not to use a heavy vocalline one in an intense melody moment

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Last edited by montana on Mar-23-2007 at 17:15

Generally in a vocal track, the vocal is the melody. If you've already got another melody in there then no wonder you're having problems.

It's better to do the vocal first, or at least stick with just some minimal drums and a bassline and maybe a little atmosphere, and get the vocal working with that. Work on countermelodies and harmony when you've already got the hook.

Personally, I prefer to start with a bare acapella.

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