Here are the basic steps involved in mixing songs:
1. Import your tracks into your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
2. Create a rough mix. This involves adjusting the levels of each track so you can hear all the instruments and vocals clearly. You should also pan tracks left and right to create a stereo image.
3. Use compression to control the dynamics of each track. Compression reduces the difference between the loudest and quietest parts of a sound, making it more consistent.
4. Use EQ to shape the frequency response of each track. EQ allows you to boost or cut specific frequencies, which can help you to create a more balanced and pleasing sound.
5. Use reverb and delay to add space and depth to your mix. Reverb simulates the natural reverberation of a room, while delay creates a series of echoes. These effects can help you to create a more realistic and immersive soundscape.
6. Use panning to position each track in the stereo field. Panning allows you to move tracks from left to right. You can use panning to create a wide and spacious mix or to focus the listener's attention on specific tracks.
7. Use automation to control the levels, EQ, and other effects over time. Automation allows you to create dynamic changes in your mix, such as fades, swells, and filter sweeps.
8. Listen carefully and make adjustments until you are satisfied with your mix. Mixing is a subjective process, so the most important thing is to listen carefully and make adjustments until you are happy with the results.
Here are some additional tips for mixing songs:
Use reference tracks to help you get the sound you want. Reference tracks are commercially mixed songs that you can use to compare your mix to. Pay attention to the levels, EQ, compression, and other effects that are used on the reference tracks, and try to replicate them in your own mix.
Don't be afraid to experiment. Mixing is a creative process, so don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques. Try different combinations of effects and settings until you find something that you like.
Take breaks. Mixing can be mentally taxing, so it's important to take breaks throughout the process. Listening to your mix with fresh ears can help you to identify problems that you might have missed otherwise.
Get feedback from others. Ask other musicians, producers, and engineers to listen to your mix and give you feedback. They may hear things that you missed, and their suggestions can help you to improve your mix.
With practice, you can learn to create professional-quality mixes of your own songs. So don't be afraid to experiment and have fun!