Music Producer, Engineer

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

A: One of the projects I worked on that I'm particularly proud of is producing the music for Trap Beckham's song "Back it up" featuring Flo Milli. The song gained a lot of popularity on TikTok and eventually ended up in a Pizza Hut commercial that aired for six months. It was a great feeling to see something I worked on receive such widespread recognition and to know that I played a part in its success

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Currently, I'm working on a variety of projects, including producing music for Trap Beckham's upcoming album and working on soundtracks for several movies and TV shows. I'm also collaborating with a few up-and-coming artists to help them develop their sound and bring their music to the next level. There's always something new and exciting in the works, and I'm constantly pushing myself to create and innovate in the music industry.

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

A: NO

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Analog or digital - it's a tough question to answer. While analog gear can produce a warm, rich sound that's hard to beat, digital technology has come a long way in recent years. As for me, I tend to prefer using digital tools because they offer more flexibility and convenience in terms of workflow. Plus, with the high-quality plugins available today, it's possible to achieve similar sonic results without the added expense and maintenance of analog gear. However, there are certain situations where analog gear can't be beat, and in those cases, I will always choose to use it. Ultimately, it comes down to what sounds best for the song and what will help me achieve the artist's vision

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

A: My promise to my clients is to deliver exceptional quality work that exceeds their expectations, while also being reliable and efficient in meeting their deadlines. I strive to provide a collaborative and positive experience, working closely with them to achieve their creative vision and bring their music to life. Customer satisfaction is my top priority, and I will go above and beyond to ensure that my clients are completely happy with the end result.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: As a music producer and mixing engineer, what I love most about my job is the opportunity to express my creativity and bring out the best in each song. It's incredibly fulfilling to work with a talented artist and bring their vision to life through sound. I enjoy the challenge of capturing the unique energy and vibe of a song and elevating it to the next level. Additionally, the music industry is constantly evolving, which keeps things interesting and exciting. Whether it's experimenting with new technology or learning about new music trends, I'm always growing and expanding my skills. Ultimately, the satisfaction of delivering a high-quality product and seeing the joy it brings to the artist and their fans is what makes my job so rewarding.

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

A: While I'm fortunate to have built a strong reputation for my work, customers sometimes have questions about my process or the services I provide. Common questions I receive include inquiries about the equipment and software I use, how long a project typically takes, and what my rates are. I'm always happy to answer any questions my clients have and provide as much information as possible to ensure they feel confident and comfortable with the work we're doing together

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

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about what I do is that it's easy and enjoyable all the time. While I do love my job, the reality is that music production and mixing can be a complex and challenging process that requires a lot of hard work and attention to detail. It takes a great deal of skill and expertise to capture the essence of a song and bring it to life, and there are often multiple revisions and adjustments that need to be made before the final product is ready. It's not just a matter of pressing a few buttons and making everything sound good - it's a creative and technical process that requires patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the music and the artist's vision.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When speaking with prospective clients, I always like to ask about their creative vision and goals for their project. Understanding their artistic direction and what they hope to achieve helps me tailor my approach and ensure we are on the same page. I also like to ask about their timeline and any specific needs they may have, such as certain sounds or instruments they want incorporated into the mix. By gathering this information upfront, I can ensure that we are working efficiently and effectively towards achieving their desired result. Additionally, I like to ask about their previous experience in the music production process and what they hope to learn or gain from working together. This helps me personalize the experience and provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in their musical endeavors.

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

A: When looking to hire a music production and mixing engineer, I would advise customers to do their research and make sure they find someone who not only has the technical skills but also shares their creative vision. Communication is key, so it's important to have a clear understanding of what you're looking for and to find someone who can deliver on your expectations. I take great pride in my ability to listen to my clients and understand their needs, while also bringing my own expertise and creative ideas to the table. I have a proven track record of delivering high-quality work and building strong relationships with my clients. My advice to anyone looking to work with me is to come with an open mind and a clear vision, and to trust in my ability to bring that vision to life. With my years of experience and passion for music, I'm confident that I can provide the best possible service and create something truly special together.

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

A: If I were stranded on a desert island and could only bring five pieces of gear, I would choose the tools that are essential to my music production process. First, my laptop loaded with my personalized sound library to ensure versatility. Second, the MPC One, my go-to hardware drum machine that is compact and reliable. Third, a quality pair of headphones to accurately monitor the sound. Fourth, the UAD Apollo X, my primary audio interface that provides high-quality conversion and powerful processing capabilities. Lastly, my guitar to help me explore and create music in new and creative ways. These five tools combined would provide me with everything I need to continue producing music while stranded on a deserted island.

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

A: I've been honing my craft for over a decade now. My journey started unexpectedly when a college basketball injury forced me to re-evaluate my career path. In 2009, I turned to music and discovered my passion for music production and audio engineering. I began learning everything I could, from the fundamentals of sound engineering to advanced mixing techniques. I spent countless hours perfecting my skills, working with various artists and building my studio setup. Through dedication and hard work, I have become an accomplished music producer and mixing engineer.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: As a music producer and mixing engineer, I don't limit myself to any particular style or genre. While some may see this as a challenge, I view it as a unique opportunity to explore new creative avenues and take risks that others may shy away from. I strive to think outside the box, constantly experimenting with new sounds, techniques, and approaches to music production and mixing. While this can sometimes lead me to uncharted territories, I embrace the challenge and take pride in creating something truly original that can't be compared to anyone else. My gift of creativity and my willingness to take risks is balanced by my expertise in the technical aspects of music production and mixing. I combine my technical skills with my creativity to bring out the best in every song, artist, and project that I work on. Overall, I believe that my unique approach to music production and mixing allows me to create something truly special and memorable for every client I work with.

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

A: As a music producer and mixing engineer, I am constantly inspired by talented artists, musicians, and performers. Some of the top-tier musicians I would love to work with include Drake, Rick Ross, Beyonce, Rihanna, S.I.R, and H.E.R. These artists have proven time and time again that they are at the top of their game, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the music industry. Not only do these artists have an incredible talent for creating music that resonates with millions of fans, but they also have a unique artistic vision that sets them apart. As a producer, I am always looking for new challenges and opportunities to collaborate with artists who share my passion for pushing boundaries and creating something truly special. Whether it's through the powerful vocals of Beyonce and H.E.R or the hard-hitting beats of Drake and Rick Ross, I know that working with these artists would be an incredible experience that would push me to be my best as a producer and mixing engineer.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: One crucial tip I have for music production is to take regular breaks and focus on the goal of finishing your project. It's easy to get lost in the details of a track, spending hours tweaking small aspects without ever reaching a final product. By taking breaks and stepping away from your work periodically, you give yourself time to refresh and gain perspective on the project. It's also important to remember the end goal of your production - to create a finished track that's ready to be shared with the world. While attention to detail is important, it's equally crucial to stay focused on completing the project as a whole. Setting small goals and deadlines for yourself can help you stay on track and make progress toward the final product. Ultimately, music production is a creative process that requires both technical skill and artistic vision. By staying focused, taking breaks when needed, and working towards a clear goal, you can create music that truly stands out and showcases your unique voice as a producer.

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

A: While I specialize in hip-hop, rap, trap, and R&B music, my skills as a music producer and mixing engineer extend far beyond those genres. I have experience working on a diverse range of projects, from rock and pop to electronic and experimental music. No matter what type of music I'm working on, my goal is always the same: to help the artist bring their vision to life. Whether it's crafting hard-hitting beats and tight, punchy vocals for a rap track or creating a lush, atmospheric soundscape for an indie ballad, I'm passionate about working with artists to realize their creative vision and bring their music to the next level. Ultimately, my approach to music production and mixing is all about collaboration and creative exploration. I'm always eager to work on new projects and discover new sounds and styles, and I bring a wealth of experience, technical expertise, and creative vision to every project I take on.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: As a music producer and mixing engineer, I pride myself on my exceptional attention to detail. It's one of my strongest skills and something that sets me apart in the industry. I firmly believe that the smallest details can make the biggest difference in a song, and that's why I approach every project with a meticulous eye for detail. Whether it's perfecting the EQ on a vocal track or fine-tuning the levels of a snare drum, I'm constantly working to ensure that every element of the mix is precisely balanced and perfectly aligned with the artist's vision. But being detail-oriented is more than just a technical skill - it's also a mindset that helps me to think creatively and push the boundaries of what's possible in a song. By being meticulous in my approach, I'm able to uncover hidden nuances and bring out the full potential of every track, creating a rich and vibrant sonic landscape that truly captures the essence of the music. In short, my strong attention to detail is a core part of who I am as a music producer and mixing engineer. It allows me to consistently deliver high-quality results, and to help artists achieve their creative vision with precision and finesse.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: As a music producer and mixing engineer, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every project, with a keen ear for detail and a deep understanding of what makes a great song. I'm passionate about creating music that not only sounds amazing but also tells a story and connects with the listener on a deep emotional level. My process begins with getting to know the artist and their vision for the project, so that I can help bring their ideas to life in the most authentic way possible. From there, I use my extensive technical skills and cutting-edge tools and software to craft a unique sonic landscape that perfectly captures the vibe and energy of the song. But what really sets me apart is my ability to bring out the best in the artist, helping them to channel their creativity and fully express themselves through their music. Whether it's providing guidance on vocal performance or offering creative input on the arrangement, I'm always focused on supporting the artist's vision and helping them achieve their goals. So, in essence, what I bring to a song is a unique combination of technical expertise, creative vision, and a deep commitment to helping the artist create music that is truly inspiring and unforgettable. With me on their side, they can be confident that their music will be taken to the next level, and that their artistic vision will be fully realized.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: As a music producer and mixing engineer, my work process is centered around capturing the essence and emotion of a song, and bringing it to life through the speakers. To do this, I start by listening carefully to the artist's vision and getting a feel for the vibe of the song. I then work to capture that vibe in the mixing process, whether that means finding the perfect EQ, crafting the perfect balance, or working with the artist to create the right performance. Once I have the raw recordings, I begin the mixing process, which is where the magic really happens. My goal is to create a mix that brings out the best in every element of the song, from the vocals to the instruments to the effects. I use my years of experience and expertise in mixing to shape the sound in a way that's faithful to the artist's vision while also sounding amazing on any playback system. Throughout the process, I strive to maintain open communication with the artist to ensure that the final product meets their expectations and captures the essence of their song. Whether I'm working on a solo project or collaborating with a team, my goal is always to deliver a final mix that captures the emotion and vibe of the song and brings it to life through the speakers.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio setup is designed to provide the highest-quality sound and maximum flexibility for my music production and mixing work. For mixing, I use Pro Tools Ultimate, the industry-standard software for audio mixing and editing. To achieve the best possible sound quality, I rely on a range of top-quality plugins from UAD, Waves, Slate Digital, and Plugin Alliance, as well as Antares Autotune for vocal processing. To ensure pristine audio conversion and high-quality monitoring, I use an UAD Apollo X interface and Yamaha HS8 studio monitors. In addition, I have a UAD-2 Satellite Octo, which provides additional processing power for my UAD plugins. When it comes to music production, I have a range of top-of-the-line tools at my disposal. I use an MPC One, Ableton Push, and Machine to play drums, and the Komplete Kontrol 61 to play keys. I also have a wide range of virtual instruments, including Komplete Ultimate 13 Collector's Edition, UVI Falcon, Analog Lab 5, Omnisphere, and Keyscape. These instruments give me the flexibility to create any type of sound, from vintage analog synths to cutting-edge digital instruments. I'm particularly proud of my Vintage Vault 4, which is an extensive collection of vintage synths and keyboards that I use to add unique textures and sonic character to my music. Whether I'm creating original tracks or working with clients to achieve their desired sound, my studio setup allows me to deliver the highest quality and most innovative music production and mixing possible.

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

A: As a music producer and mixing engineer, I draw inspiration from some of the most accomplished and talented individuals in the industry. Pharrell, Timbaland, and Swizz Beatz are all legendary producers who have made an indelible mark on the music world with their innovative sounds and creative approaches. I'm also a huge fan of Dave Pensado, Jason Joshua, Fabian Marasciullo, Da Internz, TMinus, Boi-1da, 40, Mike Will Made It, Metro Boomin, and Jamie Foxx, among others. Each of these professionals has a unique style and approach to music production and mixing that inspires me to push the boundaries of my own work. From their creative use of samples and instrumentation to their mastery of mixing techniques, they have all made significant contributions to the industry and continue to raise the bar for the next generation of music producers and engineers. I strive to learn from their successes and incorporate their innovative ideas into my own work to create music that stands out and connects with audiences.

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

A: As a music producer, my primary role is to create original music tracks or instrumentals for my clients. This involves developing the beat, selecting and arranging various musical elements, and collaborating with the artist to create a cohesive and unique sound that reflects their artistic vision. I also work to bring out the best in the artist's performance, providing guidance and feedback as needed to achieve the desired sound. As a mixing engineer, my primary role is to take the recorded tracks or stems provided by my clients and craft a polished and cohesive final mix. This involves adjusting levels, EQ, and other effects to create a balanced and clear sound, blending the different elements of the track to create space and depth, and ensuring that each instrument and vocal track can be heard clearly and without any unwanted distortion or noise. I work to enhance the emotional impact of the music, bringing out the nuances and dynamics to create a powerful and engaging listening experience.