A Step-by-Step Guide To Using Guide Cues in Ableton Live

Learn step-by-step how to add guide cues to your Ableton Live file so your band will always be on the same page.

They go by many names — guide cues, slate tracks, cues. But whatever you call them, they can help you and your band stay on the same page and avoid those “Oh crap what’s happening next” moments that inevitably happen on stage.

Adding them to Ableton is easier than you think if you have the right resources, and I’m going to show you exactly how in this video. Here’s what we’ll cover:

-Why you need to use click
-Adding guide cues
-Placing guide cues throughout your file
-Using count-ins
-Routing your guide cues

PS. I used to think using guide cues was cheating. And it kind of is, honestly. But if it makes your band stay together and sound tighter…why wouldn’t you use them?

PPS. Leave a comment and let me know if you’re using guide cues and how they help your band.

0:00 How to Add Guide Cues to Your Ableton Live File
0:19 Adding Files to Your Ableton Live is Helpful
0:38 Guide Cues Allow for a More Comfortable Experience on Stage
1:16 What You Need (1) – Play with a Click Track
2:16 What You Need (2) – Add My Free Guide Cues (Example)
3:56 Add A Count Off at the Beginning
4:40 Record Yourself Saying the Song Name at the Beginning
5:29 How You Can Place Guide Cues Throughout Sections
6:25 My Initial Mindset on Guide Cues & Realizing Their Importance (My Example)
8:09 Consider Subscribing to Learn More About Ableton Live
8:29 Routing: Cues & Clicks Should Be Routed Separately From Tracks
9:23 Format Your Tracks: My Free Templates (fromstudiotostage.com/template)
10:12 Make sure to subscribe and thanks for watching!