Producer, Composer,

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Both, either, there's no right or wrong. Its only what's appropriate that matters. Just whichever is the right set of tools for the project.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I love most about my job is 3 things really: Music, People, and Recording. I love recording, I love making music, and I love people. Its thrilling when you have a group of people creating something truly amazing in the studio. There's nothing like a good day in the studio, with great people. When you finish making that recording you know you've come together and created something that is lasting, and hopefully positive and inspiring to others!

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

A: "I have Garageband and a mic. I can just do this in my kitchen, right? Why do I need you?" My answer to that is, yes, yes you technically can do that in your kitchen, but it probably isnt going to sound professional or at all like you had hoped. Home set ups are great for demos if you know that you have decent gear, but more importantly a good handle on recording practice and above all a good sounding room. (That in and of itself is a whole other conversation, as some people may think their shower is a "good room".) I also try to explain that the reason that they need me is that I can help them formulate a plan, and get the recording appropriate for their budget. Things take time, quality takes time, and quality recordings need technical mastery and a team. I can help bring all of these pieces together, so that the artist can focus on performing and writing their songs.

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

A: I think the biggest misconception(s) I get about what I do are two common things. The first being that many artists are scared that having a producer means that they are going to loose creative control, or told what to do. This simply isn't the case. A producer is there to help guide you to your goal, help you formulate your creative ideals and craft your sound. The second misconception is that a producer is some one who "makes beats". Its true, that is something a producer might do, but simply doing that is not being a producer. There are many kinds of producers; some approach the recording process as more of an engineer, and others as more of a songwriter, or as more of a musician, others are a blend of mentorship, and all of the above. It all comes down to what the artist needs, and what people's specialties and needs are. Clear as mud, huh?

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I like to ask my prospective clients what their dream sound is. I like to hear the music that inspires them. I want to know how they are different, and what they hope to achieve with their recording or writing of their song/recording. Its very hard in the early stages to always visualize, so I like to spend time by attending gigs and rehearsals so that I can really understand the artist. Once we know what our defined creative goals are, then we can start planning our timeline and budget together and assembling the perfect team for the artists project!