Producer, Talkbox expert

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

A: Most proud of my latest original talkbox project called "7DAYZ". I produced, wrote, performed, and pre-mixed 7 completely different songs in 7 days (from scratch). We filmed the entire process and shared the experience. It was non-stop pressure to be creative and it pushed me to new places. I love a good challenge!!

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Digital. Workflow and ability to edit.

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

A: Because of my successful Chicano Rap radio hits, some who know me may think that's all I do. But since then I've moved i some many other directions to show otherwise, that it's much of a misconception anymore.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: Do you work on your craft every day? Do you have real passion for music, or do you just wanna hurry up and be famous?

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

A: You get what you pay for.

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

A: A water filter!! j/k But honestly this is a silly question because there would be no power!! How about hand drums, piano, and an acoustic guitar.

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

A: I started playing keys in funk bands in the 90's leading to a major tour with En Vogue. I played drums professionally for several years before building my first studio. I started producing West Coast G-Funk and got to work with Kurupt from the Dogg Pound in 1999, then had my first charting radio hit called "I Love Cali (in the Summertime)" with Kurupt's younger brother Roscoe in 2000. Soon after I worked with Baby Bash and Kid Frost which led me into many Chicano Rap hits throughout the 2000's like "Summer Nights" by Lil Rob and "Lean Like A Cholo" by Kilo which were certified Gold and Platinum records. All along I was co-writing or featuring on records with many artists and worked with some of the biggest West Coast artists. In the 2010's I jumped into K-Pop and had several #1 records in Asia. That's just a summary, but I've been perfecting my craft for almost 30 years!!

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I don't have one style, but I'm most known for my funk influence. I'd say my style leans more Pop than Street tho.

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

A: D Smoke or Bruno Mars because of the musicality and versatility of their talent.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Put your first ideas down, don't overthink. They are usually the right ideas if you keep going.

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

A: Pop, R&B, Hip-Hop, Funk, and Dance. I do Rock as well, but usually for my own projects.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Listening.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: Anything and everything. I play keys and drums (as well as program), also limited guitar, but have amazing players on deck for most other instrumentation. I also edit and mix my own productions.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I AM NOT A BEAT-MAKER! I produce artists, meaning I find out who the artist is and where they want to (or should) go - and then create magic WITH the artist. I create the music with that energy and then help build the topline (if needed) and semi-mix along the way so we can feel where the record is going.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Top of the line digital music production studio in a spacious professional- yet vibey atmosphere. Located near Universal Studios and the Hollywood Bowl.

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

A: Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Roger Troutman, Pharrell Williams, Teddy Riley, Calvin Harris, Stargate, Cirkut.

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

A: Production of multiple genres. Writing or co-writing. Hook features with talkbox or vocals. Vocal production and editing. Mixing and Mastering.