Q: Is it required to fill out an application to use your services ?

A :  If you are planning to have one of our project managers record and produce your song then you would not be required to fill out an application. All you have to do is contact us and let us know your needs ! However, in order to receive any special offers you would need to be a member.

 If you are a do-it-yourself songwriter, musician or engineer than you should fill out the application to join. It is really for everyone's benefit to require a basic skill level in recording before joining. We do not want to waste any one's time or money because they are inadequately prepared to interact musically in an online setting.

 

Q: Can I get a basic price quote for my project ?

A : Simply contact us and let us know a little bit about yourself and your song. We will get right back with you.

Q: Are the samples free ?

A : No, it would simply be too much work for our session players to provide free samples for everyone. We have to charge a nominal fee for the sample but it will be subtracted from the final fee if you choose that particular session player. Please choose the stagewise payment option if you would like to hear a sample first.

Q: Do I have to pay to join?

A : No, membership is free, and you will be able to contact the session players before purchasing their services.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a session musician ?

A : It can vary depending on the instrument. Prices can range anywhere from $30.00 for a single solo instrument to $150.00 for a full 8 track drum set recording per song.

Q: Why can't I register as both a session musician or a member ?

A : You can but the system doesn't allow for email addresses to be used more than once. To apply as a session player after you have already joined as a member just use a different email address and it should allow you to apply.

Q: How does the payment process work ?

A : Payments are made through PayPal. It is advisable to have a PayPal account before you apply and to use the email address that you associate with your PayPal account when registering. This will make everything run smoother for you after you join.

 At the top right of each session player's profile page is a link for payment (you have to be a member in order for this function to work). There will be three different payment options:

1. Direct Payment - This is when you want to pay the session musician outright to record track(s) for your song. This option is useful if you already have confidence in the session musician's work. Payment is on a per song basis.

2. Stagewise Payment - This is the option you choose when you want to hear a sample first. The first amount will need to be paid to hear the sample. The second amount will only be paid if you like the sample and want to hire the musician for your full song. Payment is on a per song basis.

3. Negotiable Payment - This option is for members who may need multiple songs finished or some special request. Only use this option after you have negotiated with the session player.

Q: Will the session players spam me ?

A : Good question ! No, in fact they won't even know you exist until you contact them or purchase their services. You will have a private profile with basic information that will only be seen by the session player after they are contacted by you.

Q: What about other members, will they be able to contact me ?

A : No, this is not a networking site in the traditional sense. This is to make hiring musicians as painless and efficient as possible. Members will never see another members profile, It is totally private.

Q: How long will it take to get my sample or final track back ?

A : It should take no longer than 7 days. If for some reason the session player hits a snag and can't meet the 7 day limit, they are required to contact you. There are times when a session player could be on vacation or extra busy so please make sure you check out their availability field. It is also a good idea to contact your session musician first to make sure they are alive and kickin' .

Q: Do the session players mix their part(s) into my song ?

A : Yes, but they also should provide you with the separate track(s) so you can mix them in yourself (if you desire).

Q: Will your company or the session players keep any legal rights to my song ?

A : No, we are simply interested in giving the songwriter the best sounding recordings possible. We will not request any legal rights to your songs.

On the occasion where we are asked to write a song for the customer, we may request the legal rights to the final performance.

Q: I noticed you have Project Managers. When should I use one ?

A : This would be a good option if you are a songwriter or instrumentalist who doesn't have a lot of experience in production or putting together a song from scratch. The project manager will be able to review your needs and help you choose the right instrumentation for your song as well as mix it all together for you.  

Q: How does the payment process work when hiring a Project Manager.

A : When working with a Project Manager they will draft an invoice for you according to your needs.

Q:  What is the typical cost of a full song production using one of your project managers.

A : The answer can vary widely depending on the needs and genre of your song. The low end would be around $200.00 and the high end would be around $2,000.00. If you would like to request a quote before joining please use the contact us link. Just let us know a little about yourself, your music style, and what sort of instrumentation you are looking for.

Q: Do you have any special offers ?

A : Yes, if your payment history totals reach $1500.00, you will receive a free gift from Online SongMasters.   You can choose from a Shure 57, Shure 58, or Sony MDR-7506 Pro Headphones.