Ever found yourself in the studio, cranking out read after read, thinking, “I’ve nailed this. It’s all perfect!”? Well, think again. Here’s a nugget of wisdom from the studio trenches: Engineers don’t just want three DIFFERENT versions of the same read. This may seem obvious to some but you'd be surprised how many VO artists I've heard give a read the same way! 

What studio engineers and directors are really after is a little pizzazz. They want to hear three distinct takes, each with its own flavor. Instead of the monotonous “Buy it today, buy it today, buy it today,” mix it up! Think of it like seasoning your favorite dish—add a pinch of excitement, a dash of humor, or even a sprinkle of drama. Try different tones or emphases that convey various nuances.

Take the classic taglines: “Got Milk?” or “For food, for family.” They’re memorable because they’re taglines. Those taglines most likely came from a major decision on the read. So, when you’re asked for multiple reads, channel your inner chameleon. Deliver each read with a unique twist, making sure they stand out from one another. It’s not just about hitting the right notes; it’s about adding those special touches that make each take a standout.

Remember, studio engineers and directors are like the conductors of an orchestra—they need you to play different notes to create a symphony. So next time you’re in the booth, give them something to work with. Your creativity and variety might just be the secret ingredient they’re looking for!