Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: EQ • Automation • Phantom Power

Side-chain

Term from Music Production industry explained for recruiters

Side-chain is a common music production technique where one sound automatically controls the volume of another sound. It's like having an automatic volume knob that turns down one sound (like background music) whenever another sound plays (like a voice or drum). This creates a pumping or breathing effect that's very popular in modern music, especially in genres like electronic dance music (EDM), pop, and hip-hop. Think of it like a radio DJ automatically turning down the music when they speak, but happening continuously and rhythmically in a song.

Examples in Resumes

Used Side-chain compression to create dynamic movement in dance tracks

Implemented Side-chain processing to blend vocals with instrumental tracks

Applied Side-chaining techniques to achieve professional-quality mix balance

Mastered Side-chain compression for creating EDM pump effects

Typical job title: "Music Producers"

Also try searching for:

Audio Engineer Sound Designer Mix Engineer EDM Producer Recording Engineer Music Production Specialist Studio Engineer

Where to Find Music Producers

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you use side-chain compression in different musical genres?

Expected Answer: A senior producer should explain how side-chain can be used subtly in pop music for vocal clarity, heavily in EDM for pumping effects, and creatively in sound design. They should mention multiple scenarios and technical approaches for different musical needs.

Q: How do you troubleshoot common side-chain problems in a mix?

Expected Answer: Should discuss identifying timing issues, proper threshold settings, and how to fix unwanted pumping effects. Should also mention how to maintain proper balance across different playback systems.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain how you would set up side-chain compression for a dance track.

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic setup process: connecting the kick drum to compress the bass, setting appropriate attack and release times, and adjusting the threshold for the right amount of pumping effect.

Q: What creative uses of side-chain have you implemented in your productions?

Expected Answer: Should provide examples of using side-chain beyond basic EDM pumping, such as creating space for vocals, creative sound design, or mixing background elements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is side-chain compression and why is it used?

Expected Answer: Should explain the basic concept of one sound controlling another's volume, and common applications like making space for kick drums or vocals in a mix.

Q: What are the basic parameters you adjust when setting up side-chain?

Expected Answer: Should know the basic controls: threshold (how sensitive), ratio (how strong), attack and release times (how fast it responds and recovers).