Production Arranging Keyboards

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

A: I have so many that I could name. Recently I did orchestration on Iron Maidens epic new album "The Book of Souls" They are an iconic band. I had to orchestrate an epic 18 minute song. Keeping it compelling and driving the emotion and action of the songs rich story. I have recently produced some up and coming artists I am very proud of. It would not be fair to others I have worked with to single particular ones out. I want to see all my artists become as successful as they can. Some are further along than others, but all are doing what they love and I want to support everyone fulfilling their passion and dream.

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

A: A producer is more than someone who just helps create music. A producer supports and nurtures talent to perform and write their very very best.

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: Robert L Smith Producer and engineer

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Mainstream meets underground. I like to merge the qualities that reach a large audience with the creativity that knows no boundaries which underground music brings. I do however insure the music supports the artists vision. I make sure the song comes first.

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

A: As a producer: Know that you must be committed and serious about working hard. As a musician/arranger/orchestrator: be clear what you need. Provide me with well organized sessions to allow me to focus on your music.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: Creating music that makes a difference in the world and interacting with diverse artists and talent.

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

A: You will have a powerful experience being both supported and pushing your own limits as an artist or musician and be able to call what we do together, "My best work to date!" I will provide you with the best musicians and talent to complement your music that your budget will allow.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I am producing several promising artists for submission to major labels. I am also recording EP's for new artists who have hired me to develop them. I am always doing session keyboards, arranging as well.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Both. The sound quality and feel of analog if appropriate for conveying the music. For digital the convenience, speed and ever evolving soundbending techniques that pushes the limits of technology.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: I want to release my first EP, and don't know how to go about doing it, can you help? Yes and I can introduce you to others who can help with the other aspects of doing a release including distribution and promotion. Do you co-write with your artists. Yes I do, if the artist and I feel a collaboration would be beneficial and an addition to the album or EP. Are you the right producer for my music? You must listen to my work to see if it is closely aligned with your style, vision or what you aspire to be. On my part, I will listen carefully to your work let you know if I feel a connection to you as an artist, and your music. I consider carefully and honestly if I can deliver for you. An example; I don't do traditional country music, I would refer you or tell you to find to someone who is intimately involved in the genre to deliver the kind of recording you need. It would not be in integrity to produce a music that I don't live.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: For new artists: How long have you been doing this? Do you perform live on a regular basis? Have you had any formal training or studies? Have or were you involved in music throughout school? Do you have the support of your family and friends to do this? For established artists commercially successful or not: What is it you want to achieve creatively with this next song or album? How can I best support what you envision for yourselves? What have you learned from your past experiences releasing albums that you want to address on this project?

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

A: Steinway B or Yamaha C7, Hammond B-3, Arp 2600, Pro Tools Rig, Neuman U47... if there is electricity :-) If not... a Piano is all I need.

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

A: I've doing this 35 years, started as a touring musician with Herbie Hancock, which evolved into becoming a first call session musician in New York. Arranging, then production followed leading to me winning a Grammy Award as a producer for album of the year.

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

A: There are many but recently my faves are The Weeknd, because his production and music is sonically so creative. Adele and Ed Sheeran, great vocalists and songwriters. Joan as Policewoman, because she is so creative and brave as an artist. Die Antwoord, because that would be one of the most unforgettable experiences to learn how their brains work. Bruno Mars, whose talent and impact on modern R&B, and Funk is leading the next generation carrying this great music into the future.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Pre-Production, Pre-Production, Pre-Production!

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

A: I've had my largest successes with Pop, Indie pop, singer-songwriter, and rock. I also get great pleasure working on electronic, world and underground music.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: To bring out the true potential of an artist and their music.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I work to insure the song speaks most authentically to what the writer is striving to express. I make sure it is melodically, harmonically and structurally the best that it can be to connect with the listener and be a compelling experience for them.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: As a producer pre-production is key to how I work. Once the artist and I have mocked up the song, the arrangement and are very clear about the sound and direction the music is taking, do we move forward and bring in the musicians to perform. When working on an EP or Album this gives us a better sense of which songs should be included. It's important for an artist to put their strongest foot forward.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I work in Pro tools and Ableton Live. I have a large collection of synths and keyboards that I have used over the 30 + years I have been active in the music industry.

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

A: I admire many of the new generation of producers and appreciate and am inspired by the greats. Some of which I am honored to have worked with as a session musician and arranger.

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

A: I produce, play keyboards and program. I also do orchestration and arranging, for both real and virtual instruments.