Today’s featured FAQ Friday question is:
As a producer, engineer, or mixer, how do you handle sessions with people that are living in the edge? How do you keep control of the situations and still coax incredible performances of someone who is clearly high or intoxicated?
Alcoholism and drug addiction are very serious issues. In the music industry specifically, artists and other creators tend to be very vulnerable to these issues because of the fear and insecurity that can come with the job and because of the environments they may work in.
If you or someone you know is dealing with addiction to drugs or alcohol, there are many resources available that can support you through this time and help you deal with the addiction. AA and NA are great support networks, and they are available all over the country, so all you have to do is find the one nearest to you. For those in the music industry that may be in need of rehab, MusiCares helps people that are dealing with these issues.
When it comes to working with someone who may be struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, it can be a tricky situation. I have dealt with people coming into the studio who are drunk or high in the past. When you are dealing with this, it is important that you have clear boundaries. For example, I do not tolerate anyone in the studio who is incapable of doing their job. If someone comes in who is no able to work, then they will be asked to leave the session. It is not helpful to anyone to have someone there who cannot work, and it also makes it very difficult for you to run your business, as no work will get done.
With that being said, it is still important to be compassionate when working with someone who is dealing with addiction. You don’t have to be aggressive if you do have to ask someone to leave, but just be firm and professional, letting them know that they will be welcome back when they are able to work. You can also let them know there are resources available, if you think that is appropriate. While you cannot force someone to get help, you can let them know there is help available if they need it.
Again, alcoholism and addiction are very serious issues, and if you or someone you know is dealing with this problem, click the links below for resources you can use in order to get help:
Watch the video below to see the full answer to this question, as well as the answers to other FAQ Friday questions.
