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Keep your clock radio and transistor tuned in to the Top 40 station around the clock to maximize your chances of catching The Songs.
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Make sure your tape recorder is primed and ready (don’t forget to check those batteries!). A handy tip: set it to record/pause to save precious time.
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Experiment with sound levels on your radios to find the best distance between the speaker and the tape recorder. The goal is to capture the music at a volume that allows you to hear the lyrics clearly. Conduct multiple test runs with your devices in various locations to find the sweet spot.
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Minimize errands with your mom whenever possible so you’re more likely to be home when one of The Songs airs.
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Keep bathroom breaks short and efficient; pro tip: use commercial breaks for quick trips!
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Although the neighbor’s pool is calling your name, consider this: what if a Song plays while you’re out? Swimming is allowed only if you’ve successfully recorded at least two Songs.
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Regularly reach out to friends like Sarah A. and Mike B. to see if they’ve caught any of The Songs in the last hour.
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Try to identify patterns in songs or commercials that might predict The Songs. Keep a dedicated notebook for tracking this information.
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Begin recording as soon as you hear anything that resembles the opening note of a Song, or if there’s a longer-than-usual pause after a commercial or DJ banter. Better to be prepared for false alarms than to miss a golden opportunity!
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If you realize that you’ve started recording but it’s not one of The Songs, delete that segment immediately and reset your tape recorder. And yes, check those batteries again!
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While recording, do a visual check on your tape recorder to confirm it’s functioning correctly. Resist the urge to press the record button again “just to be sure.” Trust your instincts.
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At the conclusion of The Song, wait for the next track to start, the DJ to speak, or a commercial to air. You can always erase any extra material, but you can’t recover the last second of a Song.
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Keep a running list of the Songs you record and periodically check your work by fast-forwarding through the tape.
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After finishing your mixtape, start a new notebook to write down all the lyrics to The Songs. With the ability to rewind at will, you’ll finally grasp every word and its meaning.
This article was initially published on April 26, 2015.
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In summary, recording the perfect mixtape requires preparation, timing, and a little luck. By following these steps, you’ll create a collection of your favorite tunes that you can cherish for years to come.