Today, Joe Carrell mixes the Aretha Franklin classic, Natural Woman. You can see the video performance of the cover and the mix breakdown in full but here’s some of the highlights from Joe’s quick tips when you’re mixing this track.
You can download the multitracks to this here
- Using tape emulation: Joe mentions that he used a tape machine emulation from Fuse Audio Labs (Flywheel) on every track in the mix to create a vintage and classic sound.
- Emulating vintage hardware: Instead of using modern tools, Joe chose the Lindell 69 Helios console emulation from Plug-in Alliance, which is based on vintage Helios consoles from 1969. This choice contributed to the warm and round sound he was aiming for.
- Dynamics and fader manipulation: Joe discusses how he wanted to maintain the dynamics of the original song, particularly in the chorus. He manually increased the volume during key moments to emphasize the brass, strings, and melodic sections.
- Creating emotion through dynamics: Joe highlights the importance of building dynamics into a mix to create emotion in a song. He mentions that it’s not just about using tools but also about using one’s intuition and hands-on techniques.
- Stereo bus processing: For the stereo bus, Joe chose the Manley Stereo Variable Mu compressor to achieve a smooth sound rather than an aggressive one typically associated with the SSL bus compressor.
- Smooth and vintage sound: Joe’s goal was to create a smooth and classic sound for the mix to pay homage to the original recording by Aretha Franklin.
These techniques and tools reflect Joe’s approach to mixing “Natural Woman” in a way that respects the classic nature of the song while adding a touch of modernization and enhancing dynamics.
Many thanks to the following musicians:
Drums: Katie Marie
Strings/Brass: Daniel Coe
Bass: Warren Huart
Piano: Steve Maggiora
Vocals: Joanna Pearl
Please also consider donating to the Goffin & King Foundation
