Producing The Weeknd's vocals with Illangelo

About this Video

• Video Title: Producing The Weeknd's vocals with Illangelo
• Channel: Mix with the Masters
• Speakers: Illangelo
• Duration: 00:08:23

Introduction

This video demonstrates Illangelo's vocal production process for The Weeknd, focusing on the techniques and plugins used to achieve a specific sound. He details his workflow for both recording and mixing vocals, highlighting key plugins and emphasizing a less-is-more approach to achieve a natural, dynamic sound.

Key Takeaways

• Vocal Recording Setup: Illangelo prefers a direct-to-UAD sound card recording method with real-time monitoring and compression to maintain control during remote sessions. He favors the Manley VOXBOX preamp.
• Plugin Chain for Background Vocals: A complex chain involving multiple instances of EQ, compression (OTT), reverb (with reverse effects), and chorus plugins to create texture and depth.
• Lead Vocal Processing: The lead vocal processing uses Vocal Rider for dynamic control, Pro-G for gating and contrast, DeBreath for removing breaths (though acknowledging latency issues), Eiosis de-esser (highly recommended), FabFilter Pro-L 2 for limiting, Pro MB for spectral balancing, and a final high-frequency boost using the "Air" band in an unspecified plugin (possibly a similar effect to Slate Digital's Fresh Air).
• Emphasis on Subtlety: Illangelo stresses the importance of making small, incremental adjustments with plugins, creating a natural sound rather than overly processed one.
• Workflow Adaptability: Illangelo adapts his workflow to different DAWs, showing his process in Ableton Live.