What makes a vocal feel perfectly placed… or totally disconnected?This week, we’re getting way past plugin chains and diving into the real work of vocal mixing: context. We’re talking about how to make vocals live in a mix, not just sit on top of it. Because getting a vocal to shine isn’t just about EQ moves - it’s about storytelling, space, and knowing who gets the spotlight in each moment.We explore how we mix vocals completely differently - yet still aim for the same emotional clarity - and even find ourselves (gasp) passionately disagreeing about Vampire Weekend.Discover:Why the instrumental is the first thing we fix when vocals don’t feel rightThe “lead vocal vs. background vocal” question we think is kind of a trapThe one question Carl asks in every section of every songWhen to make vocals felt not heard (and how that changes your mix decisions)Why we don’t always high-pass vocals—and what we do insteadThe subtle sidechain trick that helps your vocals breathe without boosting themWhen sharing reverbs between vocals and instruments makes your mix snap togetherThe difference between using reverb for space vs. characterCarl’s favorite compressor to kill backing vocal transients (in a good way)What mixing has to do with stage plays, ransom letters, and emotional punchBen and Carl's Weekly Inspiration Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1IpnxDVoTY44JBV1j19H4h?si=0f80e020d8ae497eLA Wildfire Relief:Musicares - https://donor.musicares.org/page/lafirereliefWAMTN - https://give.wearemovingtheneedle.org/campaign/654724/donateLearn more about StudioLand - https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Learn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/