Producer, Remixer, Mix, Master

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I'd ask several questions to figure out what they really want. For example, most new artists I work with want to buy a song (production) from me. And often, this isn't what they want. They want to play more live and think that a song can give that to them. This is where I can truly add value to them by not just selling my service, but to think with them about what they need to make that happen. It does sometimes happen that I have to decline a job because they need something else because they actually need another approach to fulfill their goals.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: If you want to learn something specific, do it a lot and do it consistently. Music production is a marathon, not a sprint.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: I've noticed that I work relatively fast compared to co-producers. I'm very familiar with my craft and I naturally work efficiently.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I usually work in three stages: 1. Communication. Effective communication is key, so let’s start with a call to pinpoint your specific problem and needs for your project. Before getting creative, we’ll need to create a plan of action to ensure we stay on budget and meet deadlines. This planning phase is crucial for the success of your project. 2. Creation. After the planning phase, We’ll begin the creative work. Depending on the project, I will start with a first draft and send it to you for review. I value frequent communication to ensure we are always on the same page and to avoid any surprises. Together, we will finalize the project through back-and-forth communication. 3. Conclusion. After both parties agree that the song is completed, the final phase will begin. Upon receiving the final payment, I will deliver the agreed-upon final files of the song. If desired, we can schedule a call to discuss any additional needs on how to enhance the potential success of the project.

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

A: I was the remixer for Lost Frequencies; Like I Love You. Felix is an amazing guy and was very happy with the remix. This was quite a proud moment for me. I've also been heavily involved in a ghost/co-production project where the artist now sells out enormous festivals and plays all over the world. This has taught me a lot and has been one of my most successful projects.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: My main focus is working as a producer for other artists. I'm currently pitching a lot to big publishers and working with (upcoming) artists directly. I have a handful of regular customers that I help with production but also in their careers in general. I don't do this with everyone as I want to be able to guide them well. Most of them are now either working full time on music, signed their dream label deal or are flying over the world to sell out stadiums. And no, this is not just a "sales statement". It's actually true. Besides producing for others, I'm always working on my own releases as Remy Cooper. I have multiple cool tracks, ready to release!

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I like the digital workflow for quick decision-making. There are some amazing-sounding plugins that I own. Time is often of the essence. Digital is so flexible that it usually enhances the creative flow. But I do like to play with analog gear as well. Especially recording gear should be really great and is by definition analog. And my Moog synth is always ready to go, for when inspiration strikes. I've noticed that I've been using it way more since I've placed it right in front of me on my desk.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: For my own music, I'd say it a combination of house, disco (funk) and pop. Recently, I've been trying to get in a touch of indie. During the pandemic I've grown an interest in indie pop. I like old school vintage sounds from the 80s and 90s. Sometimes even 60s and 70s. I often emulate some of the vintage techniques, but always with a modern approach.

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

A: I usually work on electronic tracks. Mainly dance / pop and sometimes more indie. Dance sub genres are like; House, Techno, Electronic Pop, Tech House, EDM. I'm quite diverse; just like the producers that inspire me.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio is based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. I have a cozy room where I love to work on all my creative projects. My studio is built around my powerful Macbook laptop with Ableton Live 11. I use the Focal Alpha 65 speakers in combination with my beloved Subpac. This setup is very dear to me and I trust it 100%. It sound is so clear and powerful and I know exactly what everything sounds like. I also have some analogue/hardware gear like the Moog Sub 37, WA73 and the Push 2. These hardware tools give me a boost of creativity and they keep my workflow playful when I'm creating music. I rather work in the box when I'm mixing or mastering. For vocal recording, I use the WA73 Preamp with the amazing Lauten Audio ATLANTIS FC-387. It's a modern approach to the Neumann u87 but with a lot of flexibility and a super smooth sound. It's an amazing piece of tool!

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

A: Producers like Ian Kirkpatrick, Calvin Harris, Mark Ronson, Jungle, SG Lewis, MK and Josh Gudwin inspire me a lot. These are just a few because I think there are many geniuses on this earth.

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

A: I work as a producer and mixer most of the time. I have experience in different genres and all stages of the music-making process. I've done many things like; indie song mastering, full pop productions, vocal recordings and techno (ghost) productions. I love the diversity of electronic music.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: Freedom and creativity. I love how versatile the music industry is. Actually not even the music scene but the creative and creating scene. It's a beautiful thing that keeps me going every day. There are lots of cool people to connect with. A lot of freedom to make whatever you want. And in the end, music usually brings a lot of joy to people.

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

A: Have a clear artistic and business vision of your music career. I've worked on many projects where I could help them get to their own goals. Without it, it's really hard for me to give you clear value. But don't get spooked if it's not completely clear yet. I also love to be involved in developing the vision. We just need a good starting point and a lot of drive.

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

A: 1. My Macbook! 2. My Airpods 3. My Subpac 4. My Moog Sub 37 5. My Ableton Push 2

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

A: I started early on in another part of the music industry. I used to perform for Disney as an actor/singer when I was 11 years old. After doing multiple production shows, I started producing and DJ'ing. Right now, If been a producer for about 10 years. I'm educated in music production. I graduated from the Rock Academy in Tilburg (NL). Rock Academy alumni are guys like; Hardwell, Firebeatz, Franky Rizardo and Headhunterz.