The Singer-Songwriter Production Guide

Learn how to write a classic pop song, record like a pro with your bedroom setup and process vocals using cutting-edge and timeless techniques - all this and more is yours with our brand-new CM Special: Singer-Songwriter Production Guide.

Whether you're a traditional singer-songwriter who's ready to embrace the possibilities of computer-based music production, or a seasoned inside-the-box producer who wants to improve your songwriting, recording or vocal production skills, this CM Special is for you.

Songwriting masterclass
Learn the formula that underpins scores of pop hits and discover how you can apply it to give your own tracks more mass appeal

Arrangements that work
Learn how to keep your audience hooked by structuring your tracks right and making sure every section is doing its job

"How I wrote a hit…"
Peter Hook, David Gray, Lamb's Andy Barlow, Alex Cornish, Merz and King Charles share their insights and best songwriting tips

Harmonies and backing vocals
Great backing vocals separate the pros from the pack. We show you how to make yours sound a million times better

Timeless processing techniques
If you've got a great vocal to work with, these classic treatments will really allow it to shine through

Stand-out vocal effects
Hog the spotlight with the latest processing tricks for attention-grabbing vocal hooks and ear-candy moments

Break out of the box
New to the world of recording? Get up and running fast with our guide to kitting out and setting up your own custom singer-songwriter recording space

Recording essentials
We show you how to get pro-quality results on vocals and acoustic instruments, even from a modest bedroom setup

Comping and editing
The perfect vocal is rarely captured in one take - we bring you the fix-it techniques that every producer needs to know

Perfect tuning
From subtle correction to over-the-top FX, with today's powerful tuning tools you need never cringe at dodgy pitching again

On the disc: Songwriter's Toolkit
A hand-picked selection of pro sample loops to kick start your songs, courtesy of top production houses Loopmasters, Time+Space, Zero-G, Freshtone and Big Fish

CM Special 52: Singer-Songwriter Production Guide is available from*: UK and mail order: 22 February • Europe 29 February • North America 21 March • ROW 4 April

Stockists: Selected WH Smith, Chapters and independent newsagents or MyFavouriteMagazines.co.uk

Digital editions are available on Zinio and iPad/iPhone Newsstand

* Overseas onsale dates are approximate due to factors beyond our control