Music Producer

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: I've been producing for over 16 years. I began by learning the trumpet and then taking classical piano lessons. In high school, I attended a public academy which allowed me to spend at least 2 hours per day studying voice/keyboard. I was named Producer of the Year in 2010 by Review Magazine and that's when I knew I was onto something good. I was offered a contract to work for a minor label based in Texas, but didn't feel it was the right choice for my creative avenue. Ever since I've been working as a freelance music Producer.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: A lot! I have studied music for over 16 years, including at the university level. I bring my music theory along with my creativity to blend genres and provide my clients with a unique sound.

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: Swag Jerry Rice by Lil B. It was my first track for a major artist and has garnered over 1 million views on YouTube.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Beats, beats, and more beats.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: Originality

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: The ability to express my creativity.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Both -- Whatever gives me the best sound is what I will use. There's no reason for biasing my search for that sound.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: We just push buttons and the music is made for us by the computer. Real music production takes musical talent and knowledge. I don't use pre-recorded loops in my music.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: Who inspires them, what vibe they want out of my beat, and what do they want to feel when listening to their track.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Listen to people's work to see if it matches your style. Everyone has a specialty and you want to make sure whoever you hire is specialized in your area.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: Keyboard/controller, computer, mic, audio interface, desk

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Flexible. I've been trained in Classical music, Jazz, Blues, and many other styles. I utilize these styles for my beats and it sets me apart.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: Juice WRLD -- He's raw and emotional.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Mix after you've recorded all of the tracks you want to include. By attempting to mix in the middle of recording, you're interrupting the flow of creativity which can hinder your track.

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: Hip-Hop, Rap, and Trap.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Melody development.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I begin by constructing a main motif -- the melody for which I compose the rest of my track around. From there, I add in complementing layers of all sorts of instruments to suit the beat. Lastly, I add in drums -- the heart of the beat for most listeners. Hard-hitting 808s, tricky hi-hats, and punchy snares are the way to go!

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I have an iMac with Logic Pro X. I utilize a Nektar Compact controller along with my Roland RD 2000 and MicroKorg synthesizer. I have an in-home studio complete with acoustic treatment to help me ensure I get the perfect sound. I have a Rodes NT1 mic with a complimenting audio interface for professional-grade recording along with two monitor speakers for when I need to turn the volume way up! All of this sits on top of my amazing Platform® studio desk built by Output. As far as analog instruments, I have an upright piano, acoustic guitar, electric bass guitar, ukulele, trumpet, and darbuka.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: Dr. Dre, DJ Mustard, Juice WRLD, Post Malone, Eminem, NF

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: I produce beats (instrumentals). Most of my clients are aspiring rappers/singers who need a great beat for their song.