Riley McKinnon Music

Producer and Songwriter

Riley McKinnon Music on SoundBetter

Because I am an independent artist myself and I've been educating myself continuously on the ever changing music industry, I have a deep understanding of the many ways that an artist can attempt to make a living. So, I attempt to approach the production of a song knowing the whole story behind the artist and what their goals are.

I have been writing, recording and producing music for the last 20 years. So far this has been mostly for my own music but I want to branch out more and work with other artists.

I love getting creative during the recording process and discovering new production techniques.

Send me an email through 'Contact' button above and I'll get back to you asap.

Interview with Riley McKinnon Music

  1. Q: How would you describe your style?

  2. A: The song is usually asking to be certain style. I let the song decide.

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

  4. A: Post Malone because he's not afraid to try different styles.

  5. Q: Can you share one music production tip?

  6. A: Never be afraid to get on youtube and watch some tutorials, even if you think you're a pro.

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

  8. A: Lately I've been working more on electronic and hip hop (beats not rap) But I've also done alot of pop-rock, indie and folk. I love trying new things and new techniques, even if I have to spend some of my free time watching a bunch of tutorials.

  9. Q: What's your strongest skill?

  10. A: I believe that structuring a song and writing the main melody is my strongest skill.

  11. Q: What do you bring to a song?

  12. A: I believe that I have a very good sense of what makes a song great. If something seems to be off with something like the melody or the beat, I will not hesitate to discuss or try other options. It only takes one short part of a song to turn the listener off. I can bring almost everything to a song if needed. I can program, play and record all of the main instruments. If the song calls for anything out of the ordinary I would not hesitate to work with someone else.

  13. Q: What's your typical work process?

  14. A: It all depends on the song and what has been written already. It also depends on what the clients vision for the song is already. I start with listening to the song quite a few times trying to imagine what styles of production might work well. Then I would take it into Ableton and start trying out a few things. Some songs will call for a very minimal production style and some will demand to be big with many instruments and sounds.

  15. Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

  16. A: Rode NT2-A Studio Mic, Takamine Acoustic Guitar, a full size keyboard/controller and another smaller one with drum pads. I use Ableton Live most of the but I do know my way around other DAW's and music software. My studio is modest at the moment but I will do whatever it takes to get the project done right, even if I have to rent space or an instrument.

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

  18. A: Anyone who isn't afraid to dive deep into each song and not be afraid to try different genres and techniques. Ed Sheeran, Trent Reznor, Billy Corgan, Coldplay, Post Malone and tons more.

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

  20. A: Song writing and song production.

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Gear Highlights
  • Ableton Live
  • Rode NT2-A Studio Mic
  • 88 key piano/midi controller
  • Takamine acoustic guitar
  • and access to anything else I might need
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