Why are remixes made?
To target different (listening) markets.
Artistic expression/experimentation.
Saves on the cost of re-recording vocals etc.
What makes a good remix?
Firstly – its not record sales. Huge record sales mean little to most remixers and there is good reason for this. Often the remixer does not have permission from the artistes and therefore they have to play a balancing act between arousing enough interest to demonstrate their (remixing) skills and techniques (and sell enough to cover costs etc), but not so much as to cause the artistes to want to sue them for royalties.
If done well, a good remix will sound different to the original and fresh, but also seamless - as though it was an original in its own right. The only real test of a good remix is simply crowd response when they are played by DJ's in Clubs and on the radio.
How can you make a living from remixing?
This is often very difficult. However, if you have a reputation for producing quality remixes, then it is possible to do commissioned work for independent and major record labels. In this case, a set fee is usually charged. Naturally the more your reputation grows, the more you can charge. This is a very hit and miss area, and often its a case of making the right contacts and getting that one chance major.
|
