How do I get my submission in the correct MP3 format before uploading it to the site?
Your DAW (recording software) may have a “bounce” or “export” feature that will prompt you to convert your mix into a 128kbps mp3 file. If not, you can use iTunes (free download) to convert it:

• Import your WAV or AIF file into your iTunes library.

• Under the “Edit” tab go to “Preferences” and in the “General” section click on the “Import Settings” button in the middle of that window.

• Select “MP3 encoder” beside the “Import using” text. Below that, beside the “Settings” text, select “Good Quality (128 kbps)” and click OK.

• Highlight your audio file in your iTunes library, right click on it and select “Create mp3 Version”.

• Your file will be created and put into your iTunes folder location (if you don’t know where that is, you can find out here: edit>preferences>advanced)

Will my recording quality on my home studio gear be good enough?
Your submission will be handled by professional sound engineers and, if necessary, it will processed to sound great on the record. If your submission is amazing but has some sonic shortcomings you may be contacted by a member of Tommy’s production team and given special instruction for a follow-up submission.

I have so many good ideas to send you…can I send them all in?

You’re welcome to send ALL of you ideas for any of the songs for this collaboration. Having said that, please realize that this is not a lottery…all submissions will be heard and evaluated based on its musical merit and sending a 150 entries with the same or similar 20 minute guitar solo will not give you any advantage at all.

Will Tommy actually hear my submission?
Tommy and/or one of his production team members will listen to every one of the submissions. The better or more unique the entry, the better the chance you’ll have to make it to the final mix.

Can I send in my own songs for this collaboration?
This is NOT a songwriting collaboration, although your contributions may very well shape the PRODUCTION and overall presentation of the songs. Please work in the confines of the provided stem tracks for the BEST shot at being selected.

What do I get if you use my tracks?
You get to tell your friends that you played on Tommy Lee’s record. You’ll get credited as a musician and contributor in the CD credit listing and online. This may jumpstart your music career!

How do I know if you’ve selected my track for the final mix?
Check back often to this site for updates in the Daily Webisode where you may see Tommy’s reaction to YOUR part that you’ve submitted! When the final mixes are done, you will be notified via email if your contribution made it on the record.

I live in a country far, far away, can I participate?
Yes, there are NO geographical restrictions prohibiting anyone from submitting their work.

Do I have to know the recording tip of the day, in order to properly submit my material?
No, the recording tip of the day is merely a resource for anyone interested in sound recording, although you may find some of the tips helpful when you record your ideas for submission.

Why am I required to send in mp3 files and not full CD quality WAV files?
Due to the anticipated high traffic and bandwidth necessary to host this collaboration, we’re asking you to send mp3s and not AIFF or WAV files. If upon evaluation, our engineers feel that they’d like to have a higher quality version of your part, you will be contacted via email.

Playing my instrument at home is great and all, but how do I get to come to Tommy’s and record in his sick studio?
You never know what this will lead to. We’re not ruling out the possibility of you blowing us all away and a plane ticket mysteriously showing up to your house… but this has NO chance of happening if you don’t enter!

I think I can play drums better than Tommy Lee, should I submit my awesome tracks?
Great, bring it on. In fact, it doesn’t matter what you play-just record it and send it our way!

I’m having problems that this FAQ doesn’t answer. Who can I ask?
Please feel free to contact our friendly tech support at: contact@thepublicrecord.com