Daniel Nigro, working with Olivia Rodrigo, uses tempo automation in Pro Tools to enhance the drama and groove of a piano-driven track. The song starts at 135 BPM, drops 1 BPM for the chorus to deepen the groove, and ends at 136 BPM to create a smooth transition.
The recording process involved experimenting with different pianos, ultimately settling on a Steinway at Sunset Sound Studios. Post-recording, Olivia wanted the piano slowed further, requiring Nigro to manually edit transients and extending the notes to maintain a natural sound without artifacts.
The piano was captured using C12A microphones for the main sound and an M49 for the low end. Nigro chose to avoid compression, allowing the piano's dynamics to naturally build tension and drama throughout the track.