You can do it.

…But you don’t have to take our word for it! Here are words of encouragement from other RPMers.

QuoteArtist or Band NameYear
Do it. If you're a perfectionist or if you're terrified of putting yourself out there just do it. It's freeing, it stokes creativity and there's so many ways you can approach this challenge. Anyone who wants to improve their recording or writing or even their personal repertoire should be doing this Yearly. I know I will be.Benedict Drinks2020
Do the best you can, and don’t be too precious.Böuzoüki Røck 2020
Just go for it! doesn't even have to be good. It'll feel great when you've finished, either way.Count Cromulent2020
Just do it! Don't let anything or anyone hinder your process into creating something you love.Exit Smile2020
Just roll with an idea and see it through. The door to creativity will open wide! No rules!!!!!Freudian Thumb 2020
Try to find a few friends to collaborate with. It's definitely possible to do alone but it's a lot easier when you have some helpGiants2020
Ask your friends for help! It's much more fun and a lot easier to finish with help at hand. GreyJay2020
Get to it! Get it done!Intruders!2020
It’s easier than ever to accomplish, it doesn’t have to be perfect, and you’ll thank yourself for sticking with it to the finish.los beatniko2020
Your inner voices may be judgmental about what you end up doing, but the outer voices (audience and people) will usually be really welcoming of what you created. The RPM Challenge is a fantastic way to discipline ourselves to do music! Maude Blancher2020
creating music for the first time is an incredibly vulnerable process, but if you push past those uncomfortable feelings and just keep going, its so fun and rewarding. nice to know you2020
Do it! It is so fun! Don't be afraid to collaborate and open yourself up. Let life be a song for a month! Don't let the tech get you down. Northern Constellations2020
Don’t neglect your schoolwork! I divided my time badly and my grades might take a big hit because of it so if you’re devoting all of February to an album make sure you leave time for those 25% midterms!Paper Tiger2020
Just commit to it. If you decide to do it, do it. Keep expectations low and follow the RPM community led by Elling. Listen to other people’s projects and become a part of the collective creative energy.

It’s great to think big and strive for it, but plan on a worst case scenario of just pressing record on your phone and capturing a recording of a moment in time. RPM is a pretty special challenge and be proud that you are feeding into a lovely musical machine in a province oozing with inspiration.		Patrick Molloy2020
do it anywayPink Smog2020
There is an audience for absolutely everything.power bottom2020
Stay in the year 2020, st.john’s sucks in 5079, downtown is all nitrogen bars and hipsters random parallel dance party2020
Do it!!!!!The Carcinogens2020
Just vibe!Wolf Kush2020
Just do it!The Weather of fall2020
Do it!There's No Time2020
It is a daunting concept at first, especially if you don't typically write, but the RPM challenge is thee perfect place to fire up your creativity. It allows you to be loose and creative, yet decisive. The time crunch really does help you keep going and the camaraderie you feel when you know others out there in the exact same place, stressing out and having the most fun at the same time is priceless.finite2020
Just finish each track then perfect it later......if there’s time :)The Weather Of Fall2020
Just do it. Even if you think it’s crap you’ll have accomplished something really cool. Hopeless Neurotic2020
Don’t stress about it. Win or lose, feel satisfied knowing you tried.Purgatory2020
Don’t think about it too much. It doesn’t have to be ‘the’ album, it just has to be an album.industrial park lullaby2020
Plan, plan, plan! Coming up with a plan of attack and a dedicated schedule will help prioritize your time and spend more of it on the areas that matter most!Amethysts2020
Just stick with it and do not worry about the out come. Use the challenge to motivate yourself.Andrew Broders2019
Have a plan, but don’t stress it. The plan will help you stay focused when it gets tangly.Bill Clarke and Greg Furey2019
It's a daunting task, but just do it! I'd been wanting to do it for years but always thought I was too busy and couldn't possibly get that much done in a month, since I usually take months just to make a single song! But I went for it and have never felt more satisfied or impressed with myself. You can do it too. Brandon Robinson 2019
Make sound, hit record, repeat. Nothing to it! It's art! Show us your heart! Brian Downton 2019
Latch on to wave of RPM spirit in January and surf that sucka to an empowering end.Dave Mundy2019
Do it, do it, do it, do it!! Whatever ideas you have, no matter how stupid, put them on tape (or hard drive) and send it out into the world. We got 4 extremely cool gigs, local, national and international news coverage, 2 Overcast fans choice awards and were considered for a Juno nomination (in the end they decided to not go through with the nomination because they felt that lyrics written by a 7 year old don’t qualify as children’s music), all off a really dumb idea for an album that we made as a joke in 2 weeks last February. You never know what people are going to be into. Please just do it.Jacob Cherwick2019
“Hey man, if you gotta make your girlfriend angrier than you’ve ever made her before to get the take, then you gotta make your girlfriend angrier than you’ve ever made her before” - Liam Ryan (p.s. I don’t think it worked cause she was still laughing the whole time)Jacob Cherwick (again)2019
The more people you bring in to play music with, the more fun it is.Jacob Cherwick (oh god, not this guy again)2019
Don't be intimidated if you're not a musician. I am not a musician but with the help of someone like Graham I was able to pull it off. It's about being creative, no matter what your background is.John Weber (and Graham Cox-producer)2019
You can do it!Jon Dunphy2019
Think of the way you would normally do things, then do it differently.Justin Guzzwell2019
Learn how to accept imperfection, with a deadline some things can’t be redone 30 times until it sounds the way you want, trust your instincts it probably sounded good on the third take. Luke Welsh2019
Go for it! Even if you have no experience, you might be surprised by what you can come up with. Matt Power2019
Just do it! You may surprise yourself in what you can create!Meaghan Kennedy, Rick Bailey2019
Keep in mind that burning things to CD, putting it online, downloading things---all takes time and knowledge and you will be tired at the end of the month so plan for those things, the practical side of getting your RPM out there. Monica Walsh2019
I've made an album every year for the last ten years, because it's something I would have done as an artist, regardless. But February is a beautiful reason to continue doing it. And anyone is able to put together something and share it these days, so there's no reason to put it off. It's incredibly fun.Rick Bailey2019
Do it! It's fun, frustrating, and amazing!the Robinovitches!2019
DO ITThomas Fitzpatrick + Liam Foley2019
If you love music try making music, and if you love making stuff try making music, and if you somehow don't love either of those things you'll still love the chaos that is making an RPM!Tomás Shea2019
It can be intimidating, but it's worth it to put the time aside! You'll learn a lot about your music creation process when faced with a lot of songs to make in such a short while. I made some things I don't think I ever would have otherwise.Adam Power2018
Try to get most of it done in the first week so you have loads of time to realize which things need to be fixed by the third week. The quality will improve if you have enough time to get past the honeymoon phase of "wow look how creative I am" and have a chance to actually refine even the most simple ideas.AE Bridger2018
Hard work pays off!Liam Ryan2018
Do or do not. There is no try.AM/FM Dreams2018
You really just have to dive in head first without looking. Follow your gut. Make quick decisions about your arrangements otherwise you will drown in the big 'what if'. Most importantly, make sure it puts a smile on your face by the end of the project.Josh Bourden2018
Regardless of your skill level or experience this challenge will spark creativity and increase your skill levels ten fold.Brad Clarke2018
Worry about how it'll turn out later, just get it started.Matt Cole2018
It's not as had as you think! If you run out of ideas get a 7 year old to write the songs for you.Jacob Cherwick2018
Collaborate! It's fun to share the process and excitement with someone and it's harder for your ego to get in the way of completing it. It also makes you responsible to someone to actually get together and make it happen. Joanna Barker & Benjamin Thwaites2018
Do it.Andrew2018
Plan ahead as much as possibleSimon Babineau2018
Do it!Ryan kennedy2018
It's great for getting over songwriting slumps and the sense of accomplishment is actually surprising. But also, save time at the end to mix. I arsed that up.Bryan Power2018
Just do it, do it in one day or take the whole month. Just get your friends together and get it fucking startedCaitlin Whelan, Daniel Green, The Beer Patrice Guys, and all of our friends and roomies. 2018
Don't fret or stress about it. Do it.Dave Reynolds2018
Same advice as last year: brevity. Keep it short, and simple if you're just getting into it. Levity is important too. Keep it fun, ridiculous even. Steve Aylward2018
Do not hesitate ! There is no time !!! Brandon Coaker2018
start early and don't do too many takes on anything.Maggie Burton2018
Have fun!Crash Jones2018
Never say never and never back down!Matthew MacDonald2018
Mike Taylor2018
Have Fun 😁Ethan Gough2018
Just do it. Don't be too particular about it, it's all for fun. Just give it a try. You never know what you have in you to create until a deadline can draw it out of you, And when it doubt, follow your heart.Evelyn Jess2018
PracticeMarc Best2018
If you ever have a chance to title a song something ridiculous that makes you smile, do it!Tomas Shea2018
Experimentation is keyKit and Chesley2018
If you don't how to start it's best to Nike it.Simon Macodemba Jr.2018
It's worth it! Dan McLean2018
Take care of your ears. Jack E. Tar2018
Do it, and don't take it too seriously. Have fun with it.Brendon Hayward2018
You've got nothing to lose, and everything to gain in experience. Do this Challenge!Ryan Wade2018
Just create. Don't forget to trust yourself.Jeff Foran2018
Submit something for next year's challenge... and then submit something even better the following year!Edward (John Dingle)2018
don't loose hope 3/4 of the way through the month. A tune will come out of nowhere when you're under pressure. you'd do it in a day if you had to so do it. jonah emke2018
Just take it one song at a time. Note by note, line by lineKirk2018
Don't stress. It's all about the experience, and if you ruin that with stress about how it sounds, or how slowly things are going, then really you've missed out on the best part. And ask your friends for help. This album would be nothing without all the people that were involved.Rob Rodgers2018
Not really, do it for yourself more then the challenge itself.ldt2018
It gives you a new perspective on creating art!Liam Ryan2018
watch our livestream and you can see exactly how it is done 🎥 logybaygroovers.com/streamme2018
take the trip 💰Logy Bay Groovers2018
It's truly the best use of your time in February. If you make time for it to happen, the resulting finished product is worth the effort. You'll be happier for it.Rick Bailey2018
Do whatever. Krissy Breen2018
Learn to listen, listen to learnThe Man in Black2018
Just do it. Even if you're not proud of what you put up, I promise your friends will be super supportive and you'll be happy you gave it a try.Maria Cherwick2018
Just do it. Medians2018
Have fun.Grizz-a-lee2018
It’s the best. Try it.The guy from Monchy Street2018
Yes of course. You should never back down from a challenge to create art where there is absolutely no consequences. you can learn so much about yourself and where you currently stand musically in just one month, I guarantee it!Darren Mulrooney2018
have fun! sometimes just doing something is as valuable as it being perfect.Monica Walsh2018
Yeah just commit to it and do it. Don't judge the outcome, just enjoy the process.You can always go back and judge and fine tune. Dean Pelley2018
Jump in and just do it. Lots of fun planning and getting together. No Apologies with Alicia Dean and Phyllis Hancock2018
"Just Do It" - NikeNo Shoes White Socks2018
Time managementEvan Hodder2018
There really is no excuse for not doing it, unless you have died unexpectedly.Justin Guzzwell2018
Believe in what you want.
Believe it so, create it so		Brian Downton2018
do it!rebecca2018
You can do anything for a month. It's easy to give up, it's hard to stay motivated, but in the end, it's worth it. Anything creative is worth it. Mark Hoyles, Craig Caines, Mark Green, Paul Buckland, Rick Waterman2018
go aheadP. Moore2018
Like Nike - Just Do IT!Robin Hayward 2018
No excuses, just do it.Kieran Dooley and Nick Meadus2018
just do itEddi kenny2018
Do it! Such a rewarding experience that teaches me so much. I always come out of the RPM Challenge being a better musician.Rozalind MacPhail2018
It's not nearly as daunting a prospect as you think it is if you've never done it and it's a very supportive and forgiving audience if you feel like your quality level is going to be too shoddy. It's really worthwhile just to realize that in a very short period of time you can actually accomplish something substantial that you actually enjoy.Patrick Canning2018
Do it! It's a great way to give yourself a push to get an album recorded. It would have taken me ages to record all of these songs separately in a studio. Sarah Hansen2018
Don't forget to click the record buttonBill Hunt, drummer in the Shed Devils2018
Go for it.Skirt and Blazer2018
Go for it.Skirt and Blazer2018
just like makin the things and all of it giver by you will be fine relax and use it all ⛪️This is Terrible2018
make music with you're friends its all there is in this life!!!! Jess Barry/Becky Gibson2018
RPMs are fun. You should do one next year and surprise yourself with what you can do and where it takes you.Thurston Thomson and Danielle Hamel2018
Same advice as last year: sleep is for quitters.Steve Aylward2018
go for it!Michael Waterman2018
Don't give up - I almost did - but prevailedWallace Hammond /also The Black Auks2018
Don't wait until the last minute to upload your album to the RPM website.Greg Sweetapple2018
You will not want to write your album. But you must, because even if you don't like it at first, you may grow to love it! And then others can too.Christopher Dunn2018
Accept that it won't be perfect, but that's okay! And filler tracks are your best fiends.Greta Warner2018
Do it.Alive Underground2017
Keep your phone on you and hum your melodies at all hours of the day, but make sure you do enough in-studio jamming. The best things come from the act of taking time to play. All Canadian Farmers2017
Stop thinking about it and do itAM/FM Dreams2017
Anything you have to write... write it. ESPECIALLY the ones you don't overly like. For some reason it seems like people like those songs more. Odd I know.Am/Fm Dreams / Pavilion '792017
Basic Program2017
firstly, turn off your internal editor or critic and just start producing. it's more than likely you'll come up with ideas - potentially great ideas - that you wouldn't have if you were second-guessing yourself the entire time. RPM is an opportunity not only to improve your work ethic, but also to work in ways that are looser and more spontaneous. you can always refine the results later. write about things you wouldn't normally write about - literally whatever's in front of you. work with instruments and tools that are outside of your comfort zone. collaborate with anyone and everyone, even if they're not "musicians".Black Market Hard-Tack2017
When you're at the point where you truly realize its the journey, not the destination, you can relax into a place of pure creativity and inspiration. Until then your'e just working hard. ENJOY the making. Cara Lee Coleman2017
Just try it once......it is truly worth the effort!Dave Bruce2017
Just have fun. oh, yeah and rewrite, and then rewrite it again.Dave Mundy & The Best Kind2017
Again, brevity is a plus here, certainly so for anyone doing the RPM for the first time. This is my fourth year doing the challenge, but this is the first time the one-minute song format ever occurred to me. Shorter songs are just more manageable, plain and simple. They're easier to write, easier to get usable takes of, and easier to mix. DeBusey2017
Even if you are afraid to take the RPM challenge, sign up anyway! I had much fear and doubt at first, but it turned out to be one of the most empowering experiences of my life. It feels as thought there is no judgement here—it is a platform for songwriters/musicians of all genres to freely express themselves, so don't be shy! In my opinion, nothing but positive things can come from taking the RPM challenge and I am grateful.dèmentis2017
If you've ever thought about writing or recording songs, there's nothing like a deadline to get you motivated. Dersomebys2017
Don't listen to me.dicke Nüsse2017
Give 'er!!!! Just do it - the stuff we have is really rough and I am the vocalist as a placeholder (I can't sing). But that's okay - its about the journey and experience and also the opportunity to take some of these songs and continue to evolve them to something that is polished.Dirty Pande2017
Throat Coat Tea and Vitamin D so you don't get sickDoor Lock2017
Have fun! Being prepared isn't even a close second.dowJONESnow2017
Just have fun and don' stress about it! You do you!Dylan Rose 2017
just do it! it doesn't matter what the outcome is, if you force yourself to do it, you'll learn from the process. and most likely, you'll enjoy yourself! I did, and now I plan on writing and recording more music in the future, because i know i can do it.ellen grace2017
mould it however u like and don't be afraid. it's just sound: u can make it! u can make it in this world. don't stay quiet emo Pope2017
Go for it!Few Skippers2017
Give it a shot, its wicked rewarding to make and share musicGAME BOY2017
Just be okay with what you do and be genuine. Don't write for someone else, write for yourself. And it'll be a really fun and eye opening experience for everyone involved.Ginko2017
If you break a microphone don't give up. You're a musician. You probably know somebody who is willing to sell you a new one.Goddammit2017
Do it because you'll be a better human being afterwardsGot it on Tape2017
Have fun. Play instruments that you've never played before. Try writing lyrics and music, etc. differently.Gothic Architecture2017
Do it J2017
DO IT YOU CAN AND SHOULD DO IT IT'S SO GOODJam-Jambalayas2017
Questions are for cowards. Sleep is for quitters. jestaldt2017
Work hard, let yourself goJigs Jafferty2017
Do it. Land of the Lakes2017
Just think of it as some kind of radical new therapy.Light Pollution is a Crime Against Humanity2017
Start early! As soon as February 1st hits, go go go.Matt Fancy2017
Do it! Don't focus on perfection. Focus on being as honest as you can be, because in the end it's the story and the storyteller that people will connect to the most. Not the technical component.Menzem 2017
dont force anything .. be yourself and create what you want.Mik32017
gotta just do it. even if it's just for a laugh. recording anything at all is an awesome method of distraction yourself from your inner trash. kinda cathartic moan2017
Take the RPM challenge. Step outside your comfort zone. Feel the satisfaction of completing a project. Let the pressure get your creativity flowing. You won't regret it.Moyst & Steffi2017
do it!Mannlicher Carcano2017
Just do it! Use this as an atomic testing ground for your ideas! Learn from them, make something, have fun! It's worth it!Navigator Black2017
My advice - just do it. No apologies necessary. No Apologies2017
Try not to leave all the recording for the last few days, also don't be afraid to try something new with your musicNo Shoes White Socks2017
Do it! It's a great way to grow as a musician, producer and kind of forces you to put your creativity as a priority for a month.OKaFee2017
Collaborate. If you trust yourself and the others involved, the music will sound like no other.People On Pause2017
If you want, you can. If you can, you will. Don't hesitate... Make sound and document it 10 times or for 35 minutes. Personal Space Invaders2017
be patient, but stay committed.POST2017
If you haven't attempted one, it's a real sense of accomplishment when you finish with something you created. I've been doing them for years because I like challenging myself, and I'll make music anyway. If you don't think you have what it takes to make a musical project, you're only fooling yourself because anyone can.RC Coola2017
as before... get a handle on your process beforehand, don't leave it till February. don't make songs for other people, for an audience, satisfy yourself first.
don't become over-dependent on the approval of others. 		Red Noise2017
Make lists, have fun, be experimental, do some youtube tutorials!RENDERS2017
Do it! Even if you don't finish your album, you will have grown so much as an artist from jumping into the process which will always make it worth it.Rozalind MacPhail2017
Enjoy yourself and enjoy the process. Sound of Newfoundland and Labrador2017
do it!St. John's VocalX Choir (vocalX)2017
we didn't end up going to any of the meetups because of timing, but we probably could have learned some tidbits about recording and done a much smoother job of making things sound good if we'd connected with other folks more. But smooth sounds aren't necessarily the point. Just do it, commit, sign up, and there's no way out, you'll just be forced to realize you're capable. Steel Cut Notes2017
Get some friends to do it with you. Take the time to label your tracks. The Beagles2017
Just do it. I have likely made some of the worst RPM albums (musically), and it does not matter because I love doing it. It is not about the destination, it is about the journey.
The St. John's Punk Collective2017
It's worth it. Topiary2017
Just do it, have fun, be weird if you want to, and remember you can always make a better album next year!Uke Nukem/Any Hummers Allowed In2017
Don't leave it to the last minute, and don't overanalyze it. It's not meant to be perfect, so even for those perfectionists out there, it's best to start as close to Feb 1 as you possibly can and don't overthink your tracks. Sometimes fiddling with an effect might make something sound good initially, but there's always a reason that it sounded a particular way before you tweaked it. Bottom line: trust your gut about a song, it's usually right.Vandertramp2017
It's a lot of fun... a lot of work... but it's rewarding. Young's2017
Making art is fun and nothing is ever perfect.Jeff Foran2017
Why not?! It's something creative to do to help get you through the misery that is February in Newfoundland. You might actually like what you make? Virginia E. Berry2017
There is simply no better way to avoid many of your current responsibilities during the month of February, which is statistically a legendary shitty month in Newfoundland either way. Annoy your friends, family and loved ones by committing to this excellent deadline each and every year.

Do it. 		Jack E. Tar2017
Record everything!Lost in the Woods in the Dark2017
Go for it! You have nothing to lose and possibly a whole lot to gain! You will learn a lot about yourself in just 28 days. You never know what you can create, with just a little pressure. Even if it scares you, step out of your comfort zone, because stepping outside of your comfort zone is where the magic really happens. Evelyn Jess2017
Never stop, if you think you can't do it.Ethan Gough2017
Don't worry about the end result, focus on getting there.Matt Cole2017
Do it! And do it again, it will test your soft creative skills and your hard technical skills. You will, guaranteed, encounter frustrating problems, and you will figure out ways of working around them. You will learn from the process and come out stronger than ever and you will produce another album that surfs over the previous year's quirks. There will be new quirks, and you will become a confident ever evolving musical recording organism. Do it!Dan Ficken 2017
do it!Adam Foran2017
Don't spend too much time trying to make it perfect. Enjoy the process. Sometimes if you start out singing and you make a small flub, it still mgiht be the best take ever. Embrace the imperfections. You will grow as a singer and musician. Keep writing songs, you will get better at it. Monica Walsh2017
Just don't take it too serious. Have fun with it. Don't try to make it perfect or you'll go nuts.am/fm dreams2017
Perfection is the enemy. Progress is all that matters.Steve Power2017
Really push to have it done a week in advance to give time for a decent mix, and try to give yourself the option of scrapping a song or two. In the event that this isn't feasible, just record a 35 minute long ambient song.AE Bridger2017
Don't stop. If you can't write anything just sit down and start playing stuff until you hear something you like, that could become the best song on the whole project.Jacob Cherwick2017
It doesn't have to be perfect or even turn out how you originally thought it would. Holly 2017
Don't get caught up in whether you're a musician, or a singer, or how the recordings will sound given you're doing them yourself. The RPM is a rare opportunity to create without judgement. Embrace that, and you'll have fun (and get an album, which, trust me, needn't be great to give you a sense of accomplishment). Worrying about if it's good enough kills the spirit of the RPM -- don't be a spirit squasher. The more of us shyly releasing earnest albums, the better the RPM vibe.Chad Pelley2017
Just press record and go from there :)Mimi Stockland2017
yesThis is Terrible2017
Just do it. It's a fun personal challenge. The only one who can get in your way is you.primarily a preschool teacher but in this instance I guess you can say I'm a writer?2017
Do it. Have fun.Belted Mutter2017
Just do it. It's fun. I was sick the whole month and still did a vocal album. Lots of hot lemon water with honey for the throat. Virginia E. Berry2017
Just got for it!Alex Collins & The Accounting Dept.2016
Don't think doing about it - DO IT!!!!!!AM/FM Dreams2016
Turn those February blues into something productive and creative. You might write some mediocre stuff but you only have a month so it's super rewarding no matter what!armahain2016
Don't worry about making a well-produced album. Don't let mixing and production stress you out. Arn Smit2016
It is definitely worth it in terms of self-awareness and growth as a musician.Baldwin2016
do it!Ben Jackson2016
This is boot camp for musicians.
You'll be a better musician if you accept the challenge in earnest.		Best Kind Blues Band2016
If you're serious about writing, the rpm challenge creates a deadline which makes you finish things and just write in general. Some days i think i should write a song but end up not doing so because there is no pressure. That "pressure" to finish for me is usually not there so this was a good kick in the pants to get me moving. I personally don't care if anyone listens to this. I just needed an excuse to write/ create and this was it. Some these songs may eventually make their way to an actual album but on the contrary some of these will most certainly not lol. You never know what randomness will come to you when you "have" to start and finish a song as fast as possible.

Do it!		Bison Jerry2016
Just do it. Make noise if you got to but I guarantee you'll make some magic in those frequencies somewhere. Blair Goudie2016
Don't be worried about what people will think of your album, just go for it. You'll have a blast!

Also, the more you plan ahead, the easier it will be.		Blind Bucket Baby2016
For the love of god, don't take it too seriously. You're not in this to become a superstar or get loaded rich. This project put a huge amount of stress on our friendships and schedules, but it didn't have to. We strove for perfection and in the last moments realized that doesn't exist at all. Just have fun with it, experiment in every possible way you can, and get it done. Someone will love what you made.Calver2016
have no shame, just giv'r.cara winsor hehir (& neil)2016
Besides "I don't want to", I cannot think of any really valid reason for not at least trying. I think the trick is not taking it too seriously and looking at it in such a way that there are no excuses to not do it.castabouts2016
There's nothing 150 other locals can do in a month that you can't too. The software goes from being daunting to exciting the more you learn. And you're allowed to have flawed tracks, vocals, timing, whatever: that's the beauty of the RPM. It's about recording an album and nothing more. Chad Pelley2016
Steal whatever you can from your inspirations and listen to a lot of ELO.Chance Placentia Junction2016
Be honest with yourself, and have fun. Be safe!CrashJonesBand2016
It'll be difficult, and sometimes it's better to burn an idea that just isn't working to the ground and try again. The increased time restrictions will only fuel your creative madness.Daddy Twofoot2016
It's an amazing thing to do. It's the perfect way to battle the February blahs.
E.B. Reid2016
Try to get some time off of work or school. It helps.emo pope2016
Work with what you have! Even if you don't have much gear (like my studio, with an Apex mic, a Scarlett, a microkorg and and a laptop with Ableton), there are so many possibilities with anything you have. Sample everything if you can, or use Garageband or some other free DAW or even buy one if you can (or torrent if you don't want to make money shhh), use your old elementary school recorder, use your hands, use anything! Even if you don't have the recording gear, just go HAM and ask a friend or even the RPM crew for help! <3 pce n luv n musicemo pope2016
It's a gratifying experience that everyone should really consider, musician or not. It lets your mind think in ways you might not have ever thought and it lets you express feelings you probably didn't even know were there. If you think you don't have anything to write a song about just think about the things that make you happy. Whether that's the sound of your cat chewing or the love of your life. Music is in your life just put it out there.Gary Lamkin2016
DO IT! Good kick in the butt to start songwriting.Gazelle2016
Start on the first of FebruaryGoreforge2016
do it for fun <3 Guilds2016
Do it. Challenge yourself and others and enjoy the processGypsy water 2016
Don't let the guidelines stop you from creating. Just embrace the spirit of the challenge. Hal 9000 2016
Do It...no matter what, do it!!
Heather OKeefe2016
Don't worry about the end result or what people will think.
Just do what you want. Create what seems fun, interesting and exciting for you! It's is an exercise in song and sound and it is really fun to just see what you come up with and end up with! Listening to everyone else's work and experimentation is really exciting too! Probably one of the best rewards for finishing it, is being apart of the nl rpm group for 2016! It is nice to hear ideas, influences and expression from all around NL :D

Love it all! Thank you sooo much! 		Holly Whelan2016
JUST DO IT! Don't think about it. It doesn't have to be a masterpiece. Just do it.It Could Be Franky2016
Just do it. JUST DO IT.Jacob Critch2016
LESS is MORE. Know when to stop. Jeff Foran2016
Keep making music, have fun doing it, and don't stop coming up with ideas. Learn from people who had done RPM albums in the past, listen to many musicians, and try to formulate ideas to come up with when recording. Joel Tourout2016
Giver Jon Allan + Dan Greene2016
Just don't care. Never think about what others will think just play and record whatever comes out. You might have to write 100 songs before you get the song you wanted to write but in the meantime you wrote 100 songs. Jon Barnes2016
Julia2016
Trust yourself, trust your organism. If it feels right then it is right, the main thing for this challenge is to get the music out of your head and into the universe. Once you do so, it will congeal and take on an identity of its own, so don't sweat the small stuff. Justin Strong2016
DON'T DO IT! Just kidding. Do it. It'll change you. Hopefully for the better.Laura Jean Fraser2016
2 words: thai foodLeisure Palace2016
Ask for a mic for xmas, Mom and my brother got me a Zoom H1 from L&McQ, and then when you agree to lend it out to someone and only have a night to a record a whole album, you can.Literary Sensation Iain McCurdy2016
Listen to all the groovers albums first for inspirationlogy bay groovers2016
If you have the time to do it, please do. Even if you don't have the time to do it, that will only make it better. Deadline pressure makes for interesting methods of creating. los beatniko2016
Set aside more than 5 days to record because it's actually a full month.Lyubov Orlova2016
Friends have told me that their favourite songs of mine are RPM songs. They never would have been written if I didn't take the RPM challenge. So, if you don't take the RPM Challenge you will lose all your friends. Michael Dalton2016
Well if you're even thinking about doing it then I think the best advice to give is that you commit and just do it. It's a lot of work and done over a month so you have to figure you'll feel quite good when you get to the end of it. It's a good feeling to complete a personal project over a month, for anyone I imagine.

Also, set yourself up to succeed! Give yourself the whole month, arrange a workspace, rent a good mic (it's cheap), make the time and stick to a schedule, keep at it even when you don't feel good about it. I had good days and bad, I'm glad I did it.		Michael Hannaford2016
Just go and do it.

do it.

do it!

If you've ever even almost thought about it as something you'd like to do, give it a try! 		Mike Mosher2016
Why not .. just make sure your partner is good with you locking yourself on a room for 3 weeksmike neville2016
Your musical core will be toned and strengthened if you take this challenge. You'll be able to use your six-pack like a xylophone, and all your friends will be well impressed.Mimi Stockland2016
Monica Walsh2016
It's great! One of the songs I recorded is just me at a piano with a tambourine in one hand, on my Iphone. But reach out to people, I found that a lot of the joy came from collaborating on sound ideas with musicians and I had no clue how to record anything. RPM is fun, so I found people enthusiastic to work on it with me, and that was just wonderful. Monica Walsh2016
Do it!MRA2016
It's not scary, just do it!NO CULTURE2016
Try to recording things directly into your interface whenever possible, it will save you time cleaning up during mixing and you can modify all aspects of the tone after. When using acoustic instruments, try to get your collaborators to play them all live in the room standing close together and use two side by side condensers, placed a foot or two away from you, panned hard left and right. This beefs up the sound and creates a more realistic stereo image of the room sound.Numerous projects2016
just do it. you won't regret it. RPM gives inspiration to be creative. a great opportunity to write songs under pressure (if that's how you work best). there'll be procrastination, boredom, d r e a d... but also complete satisfaction, pride, and r e l i e f. P R O P E R T Y 2016
Although I'm not very technically skilled, I enjoy making music. You can surprise yourself with what you can come up with when you have a goal in mind, and your not fussing too much or complicating things. My only advice is pretty much the whole idea of the RPM: just try it!Pallmar Elderidge2016
Do itPersonal Space Invaders 2016
It is important to remember that the RPM is a challenge not a competition so, just do it. The process was exciting, full of high energy and enthusiasm. :)Phyllis Hancock & Alicia Dean2016
1. Don't think twice: Try recording your ideas before you criticize them.
2. Make a plan: It's worth the effort to plan your time over the month and try your best to stick to a timeline.
3. Experience teaches: You can expect to learn the ropes as you go, which means you may surprise yourself.

And have fun!		Rhombus2016
Just do it, don't take it too seriously, and work smart - there's no shame in focusing your efforts on a few fully developed songs and then let shorter, simpler tracks keep the album moving along!Rich Kitsch2016
Collaboration cuts the work in half Shop Class2016
Don't let your preconceptions of what other people are doing stop you from trying new things and getting in the way of your writing. You Be You and do what sounds good to you.Shower Thoughts 2016
Two words. Musical exercise
Have fun with it, don't expect perfection, expect the creative pot will get stirred and get excited for what comes out		siddhartha/Liam Collins 2016
Give up control to the RPM gods and get really lost in making something.Sounds Like An Earful2016
Go for it! Don't wait to find inspiration - make it! Stray Sacks2016
Saved my life when I was unemployed. It's not really a month long challenge, it's kind of like a 4-5 day challenge over the course of a month.Taylor Stocks2016
The Black Auks2016
I would suggest playing around and experimenting with the recording process right from the get-go, rather than getting bogged down with constructing the perfect song. Also, to collaborate with friends and see what comes of it, that will make it more fun and you can learn from each other. This is advice for myself taking the RPM Challenge in the future as well. The Foulies2016
The Grey Wails2016
The hardest part is getting started. Even if it seems intimidating, just sit down and try for a couple of sessions in the first few days. Even if it's hard at first, you'll be smooth sailing after a couple of tries! Just do it!The Hashbrowns2016
Listen to The Octopus. Then find your own personal Octopus, and let it speak to you. What it tells you will set you free.The Magnus Svensons2016
The Old Goat2016
If you've ever had the creative urge pushed aside by everyday life, do the RPM Challenge. For me it's a deadline. It's an end point that makes things very clear. Here's your time frame. If you're going to do it, do it now. Stop waiting and make something. The Proper Things2016
No try just do

Record things only a few times and accept your mistakes to avoid frustration. The goal is fun!!!! If you want perfect music that is ok too though		this is terrible2016
Get a new toy and make the album with that 👾🎳🎲🎤Uwin2016
You can use anything you want, there's no rules and it really does get your ass in gear to just make something. I think at the end of the month, there's no way you can look at the thing you made (even if you didn't finish it) and say you did nothing with your life. Heck friend, you wrote 3 songs, good for you, you now have 3 songs under your belt, heck of a body of work.

So many people are putting things out for rpm, if you're nervous, don't worry because your RPM will honestly be lost amongst the dozens of other people posting them around that day. Just do it, have a laugh and enjoy yourself. Making something you like for yourself. But don't do what I did and wait until the last night to finish the whole thing. 		Weird GF2016
"Stop Pretending Art is Hard" - Amanda Palmer

yes its a lot of hard work, but it's never out of reach!		WITCHES KISS2016
Commit to it! Everyone shake hands on it and commit!Witches Kiss2016
Of all things, the RPM project should be an exercise that should develop yourself as an artist. If you're needing to work on your recording/production skills, use it to work on that. Its like recording engineer bootcamp for the set up that you have. If you're song writer, again, use it as a song writer's bootcamp where you have to write the ten best songs that you can create in a month. This album only does good for your craft. I suggest doing it. Even if you don't complete it, you are stepping out of your comfort zone as an artist. Any artist will tell you that stepping out of your artistic comfort zone only grows and develops the artist.
Adam Baxter2015
Don't sleep. Elling's unicorn is out there waiting for you, to poke ya if you nod off. Never get discouraged. You can do anything and everything you want.Adam Pitcher2015
Recording artists of any stripe; do the challenge, and don't accept failure. The skill of refinement and patience is very valuable to artists, but so are the skills of problem solving and being able to confidently finish something. The RPM Challenge is a great exercise at refining these latter qualities, and if you don't allow it to be a source of stress, it can be very fun or even moving.AE Bridger2015
Just do it.Alex Collins2015
The excuse to spend time learning how to use recording equipment, learning your own best creative times and just generally working on musical ideas at the same time as hundreds of others is nothing to sneeze at. We are all on this planet together, we may as well make music!Alison Corbett2015
Don't think about it - just do it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!am/fm dreams2015
Just do it!Andy Lilly2015
Have funBad Bass Ackwards2015
just do it

nike swoosh		benjy2015
Start out small, sketch out sounds and expand on them later.Brian Williams2015
Don't be intimidated by all the amazing RPM albums you hear every year. It's a very welcoming community and there's no expectation you submit a masterpiece, just an album for fun and for the sake of it. RPM albums are treated, listened to, and evaluated in an entirely different light than a standard album, making it a perfectly comfortable place for the songwriting hobbyist to get involved with, and, a perfect starting point for new songwriters, or non-performing acts to get stuff out into the world and heard. people just want to swap, hear, and share all this new music, not judge it.Chad Pelley2015
Try to get 8 hours of sleep every now and again because I have built up a sleep debt of approximately +60 hours throughout February.Chris Baker2015
Allow yourself enough time (perhaps a few days) to complete a good mix. Also don't buy a pair of the cheapest monitors available; mine actually turned out to be a hindrance and I'll definitely be investing in a better pair in the future.Chris Skanes2015
Don't look at the RPM Challenge as something that you have to spend every waking hour of February working on. Even if you're on a tight schedule, writing and recording one short song every three days will take you to the finish line.Clay Burton2015
Take it as a chance to try new things with your music. Deadlines are good.Colin Browne2015
Just do it. Find time. Do as much as you can. Try things. Defy logic. Most keyboards can make some pretty cool noises. Lo-Fi has more character anyway. Don't stop halfway through writing a song because it isn't meeting your wildest expectations. Press on. The things you plan the least can be the most interesting. It's about pushing your boundaries. So push them! D'Iberville2015
JUST FUCKING DO ITDAD MAGAZINE2015
Do it (because why not?).Dan Greene2015
Don't get too hung up on the details. The best music is made while you're not thinking too hard about it!Daniel Cook2015
You've got 28 days, so use your creative mind as much as possible. You can sit down and pick apart your sound for a long time, but sometimes, indeed most times, it's better to realize that if the sound doesn't work after 30 minutes, you should probably think of something else. Danny Blue and Brad Green2015
everyone's a winner baby, that's no lie.dave mundy2015
go for it. tap into your creative juices, feel the sense of accomplishment and stand back and accept the moment, this is living in the present moment for sure. Eddi Kenny2015
Challenge yourself to do new things! If you've never played lead line, do it even if they suck at least you tried. Evan AuCoin2015
If you have any sort of musical bone in your body, you have to give the RPM challenge a shot! It is a ton of fun!Evan J. M. Smith2015
and some advice for those thinking of partaking in RPM, DO IT! if you play any kind of instrument, or write any kind of music there is no reason why you shouldn't challenge yourself. It's a ton of fun!Evan J. M. Smith 2015
Do it! There's no prize, no reward but somehow, it's still devilishly fun!Ingrid Mary Percy2015
Gordon Ramsey says - "It's better to be an under-equipped doer than an over equipped poser", this was my motto this year. Also, don't spend all your time worrying about how perfect a take is or how others will hear it. The growth and experience feels best as a personal one and a few likes on facebook in march are just a bonusJeff Cook2015
It can be easier to work from a theme when writing new material and it's easier to assemble into a cohesive album if the pieces come from a similar inspiration.Jeff Foran2015
Your music can be whatever you want it to be.Jill Smith2015
Start getting your ideas down on February 1st.John Dingle2015
Don't think too hard about it. Just enjoy a month of sore guitar fingers, writing every day, and listening to your favourite music. Jon Allan2015
In the last three years I've written 30 songs because of the RPM. All the years before I've probably wrote 5. The RPM is one of the best things I've done to improve myself as a musician. Anyone can do it and it worth the effort. Jon Barnes2015
Yes. Do it. Because all you need is 24 hours, 24 packs of smokes and a few grams of gear. It keeps the body young and the mind fresh Jonah emke2015
Stay in school.Jonny May2015
do IT!!!!!!!!Josh Ackerman2015
Make sure u r aboard for next year. You won't regret it.Just a singer songwrighter who enjoys creating music for my own satisfaction.Work out of my house in my sloppy guitar room.2015
Do it! It's exhilarating and fun and stressful and relaxing and cathartic. Lots of different things you can take from it.Justin Burnett2015
if you are thinking about doing the RPM challenge, Just do it! Don't waste time thinking about it.Justin La Vallee2015
If your thinking about doing the RPM challenge, don't wast time thinking about it. just do it! justin La Vallee2015
Capture the moments and don't overthink it!Kat McLevey2015
Do itKevin Browne2015
Don't plan or think too much. Just get the ball rolling. Kira Sheppard and Shagg Burridge2015
Make three - and believe in the power of jackets.
Consistency is overrated
KreteK2015
Do it! Liam Foley2015
Keep it warmLogy Bay Groovers2015
Make a schedule & stick to it! Write in the blog every day, a little or a lot, whatever you have time for...be accountable to yourself & reach out to other rpm'ers! Don't let ANYTHING discourage or distract you from finishing. I got a bad sinus cold, my wrist injury flared up, death of a mother figure. I recorded this in my living room with sub-standard equipment & we have 2 dogs, 2 cats & a snake. They don't call it a challenge for no reason, but if I could do it...anyone can!Lorna Webb2015
Get a babysitter before you try to record anything! Or record your RPM before you have kids......Maggie Burton and Chris McGee2015
Just make sure to have fun with it!Mari Lannon2015
The more imperfect, the better! I cared way too much about what people would think at first, and that's when I wrote a bunch of poop songs. It's only when I stopped thinking of other people's reactions that I started making music that made me feel something.
And also just make the thing! Who cares how much time you have, or how much you haven't written before, or how garbage you are at technicalities! It's all about the ride! 		Maria Peddle2015
Plan for what you can then roll with the punches after thatmatt grant2015
Set your schedule for February. Easy to have a plan and to not be too stressed out at the end. MCP was lucky to have a wicked collaborator, DJ Available. Surround yourself with support...MCP2015
Be prepared to be inspired and overtired.Megan Marshall2015
for the love of whatever god you chill with, do it. Michael Dalton2015
Whenever we reminded ourselves that the RPM challenge was meant to be FUN, we'd let go of our expectations of performance and recording perfection. So I'd advise others in their moments of doubt or self-criticism that the challenge is about having fun above all.Midnight Stitches2015
have fun!Mike Coffen2015
Do it!MRA2015
Get an understanding of how to record your own music on your own (at least if you don't have someone who can do recordings for you regularly). Familiarize yourself with some music software - I use Reaper, it's free with trial period and has one of the more simple layouts while still being having some serious functions. Before the month starts spend some time doing some rough recordings so it's not so overwhelming when you're pressed for time learning all the ins and outs when your time should be dedicated moreso to writing.

Unless you're used to binge writing, having a collaborative effort - even if it's not a full band that gets together every time to write record. Writing and recording several different instruments / parts per song then writing lyrics is pretty hard to do at a pace of one song every three days, so get a few people in on the project even if it's a minor help, it'll probably add up to the project being more fully actualized. 		Nick Hopkins2015
Pick a project that you love, regardless what anybody thinks. HAVE FUNNick Ryan2015
Even if you're not having as much fun as you thought you would have it's still worthwhile to push yourself through it. Having more songs in your arsenal is always satisfying and overcoming a hard process or an annoying recording situation is all the more satisfying when you succeed at making at least one decent song.Patrick Canning2015
Budget your time otherwise you end up sitting down at 6pm the night before it's due with half the album left to record (this may or may not have happened to us)Port of Call2015
Be willing to settle, and settle early.Rajiv Thavanathan2015
It's easier than ever to record your own music and make it available for anyone who wants to listen to it. The trick is not to work too much on it, or the fun of creating it is lost in trying to make it perfect. All your favourite best-sellers have some mistakes, which is what makes them real, and accessible to real fans.Rick Bailey2015
It's never too late to start. Don't get discouraged if it's Feb 24 and you have nothing doneRyan Collins and Louis House2015
there is no limit to what can be accomplished!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! just do it!!!Sarah Harris2015
watch out. the rpm challenge is addictive! this is my seventh year participating...scrambled meggz2015
The best advice I can give is just to be prepared for an intense month full of satisfying highs and terrific moments of pride and confidence, followed by the shock of returning to real life once the 28 days is over. Smiles Blood2015
Just have fun Squawk Box2015
Plan, plan, plan. Write down your goals, and ideas (I filled out an entire notebook for the RPM this year). Establish a recording schedule; break it down to a week-by-week basis. This year I set aside the first week for drum recording, the second week for bass and synth parts, the third week for vocals and the final week for mixing, mastering, and album art. You can even devote an entire week in January to basic setup. Just because you technically can't record the month before, it doesn't mean you can't tackle some basic logistics for completing your project. Consider all the details: What recording equipment will you use? Is your job going to be an issue? Can you record around your work schedule? Will your neighbours hate you by the end of the month?Steve Aylward2015
You MUST get the buy-in and support of your loved ones if you are taking this on. Spouses, girlfriends, boyfriends, kids, parents, etc will need to know how much work this is, and how much you will be focused on it and preoccupied with it. You will be useless for most other familial duties. (My awesomely understanding, supportive and cool wife in particular needs a massive shout out: Kim Todd, I love you!!! - Finn)The Shits (Dave Finn, Dave Murrin, Mike Maguire, Steve Bettles and Tony Mercer)2015
Do it. There are no rules, it doesn't have to be good. Nobody cares how many mistakes you make or how bad your record sounds. Enjoy the process and laugh through the deadlines and missed expectations. This is Terrible2015
If you're going to do a jam, a good "leader" is key. In our case, we were lucky that a few of the musicians acted as leader, and handed off leading abilities throughout the jam.Tom Cochrane2015
Just do it. Have your meltdown when you realize it might actually suck. Get over it and send it in. Virginia Berry2015
Do it! It's fun. You may pull your hair out and weep bitter tears of undiluted frustration, but that only helps the creative process.Wade King2015
february is almost bearable when there's an rpm to be done.we are the best and worst2015