Singer/Rapper/Writer/Producer

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

A: Without a doubt, my proudest project to date is the song "Clover," a collaborative effort between Mattyink and me. This wasn't just about creating music; it was a multi-faceted experience. Picture this: I not only composed the song but also had the incredible opportunity to step into the world of acting. I played the role of the antagonist in a scene on Disney Plus, and to my sheer delight, my co-star sang "Clover" to me right there on screen. The fusion of my music with an on-screen performance was surreal. Witnessing our song come to life in the context of the scene, seeing myself on the big screen—it was undeniably one of my proudest moments. "Clover" represents more than just a song; it embodies the convergence of my musical and acting pursuits, creating a memorable project that holds a special place in my heart.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Currently, I'm in the midst of crafting what will soon become my debut album, featuring a collection of 16-18 songs. Within this compilation, approximately 6 tracks are designed to be concise, each lasting under a minute. What adds an exciting layer to this project is my intention to intertwine my musical endeavor with my acting pursuits. I'm exploring the possibility of creating a movie that complements and weaves into the thematic elements of the album. This ambitious project is a creative blend of music and storytelling, allowing me to explore the synergies between my passion for both music and acting.

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

A: I collaborate with a couple of exceptional talents on SoundBetter, notably Nate08 and Carolena Music. Working with them multiple times has been instrumental in honing the skills I utilize for music creation. Nate08 and Carolena Music are not only immensely talented but also consummate professionals. Their expertise has significantly contributed to my growth as an artist, and the synergy we share in our collaborations has been invaluable to my musical journey!

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: When I began my journey in music production, digital was the realm I delved into, and it's been the foundation of my creative process. The advantages of digital technology, with its precision, flexibility, and the vast array of virtual instruments and effects, align well with the demands of modern music production. However, my intrigue with analog is always simmering in the background. I appreciate the unique sonic qualities and character that analog equipment can impart to the sound. It's not a matter of choosing one over the other but rather a progression in my musical exploration. Looking ahead, I aspire to incorporate more analog elements into my work, leveraging the best of both worlds to enhance the depth and richness of my productions.

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

A: My commitment to you is straightforward: I promise to bring my A-game to every project, dedicating my expertise and creativity to craft the perfect song or idea. No frills, just a genuine assurance that I'll put my best foot forward, leveraging my skills and passion to deliver results that exceed your expectations. Your project is not just another task; it's a collaboration, and my promise is to make it exceptional.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I appreciate that it never feels like a job. Working from my home studio, producing, singing, playing, and immersing myself in music is an absolute honor. While it's not solely about the money, the dream is to make a living doing what you love, steering clear of the 9-to-5 grind. It's about passion meeting practicality, creating a sweet spot where work and play seamlessly blend.

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

A: Customers often wonder about my inspiration and how they can convey their ideas more effectively. My advice? Send it my way in all its audible glory. Whether it's a detailed description, a hum, or a slightly off-key melody, hearing your vision directly from you is the secret sauce. It's not about perfection; it's about capturing the essence. So, go ahead, let the sound waves do the talking—it's the most direct path to getting your vision just right.

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

A: When it comes to what I do, the biggest misconception is that it's all about the money. Sure, everyone appreciates a paycheck, but for me, it's not just a job—it's a passion. The magic of creating music transforms the whole process into something beyond work. It's an art form that allows me to dive into my creative zone, and every project feels like a journey, not a job. So, if you're worried I'm just chasing dollars, rest assured, it's the love for music that keeps me going, not the zeroes on a paycheck.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When it comes to crafting your masterpiece, I'm all about getting into the nitty-gritty. Think of me as your musical detective, hunting for those hidden gems that'll make your song pop. I'm not here to play it safe; I want to know your deepest musical desires, the vibe you're craving, and the emotions you want to stir. My questions aren't just about gathering info; they're about uncovering the magic ingredients for your 'perfect' song or idea. So spill the beans, share those wild concepts, and let's cook up a musical feast that'll leave everyone craving an encore.

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

A: When you're considering bringing me on board for your music needs, my best advice is to let your vision guide the way. Share your goals, your musical taste, and the vibe you're after—I'm all ears. Feel free to look into my Spotify or Soundcloud links from my past projects; it's like a little taste test to see if my style clicks with what you have in mind. I'm not just about the technical stuff; I'm all about capturing the emotions and artistic essence of your project. Collaboration is key, and I'm here to listen, contribute, and make this musical journey uniquely yours. Trust your gut—if it feels right, it probably is. Can't wait to dive into this creative adventure with you!

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

A: Stranded on an island? Call it odd, but that's been a wild dream of mine for ages. Survival isn't just a buzzword to me—it's practically a hobby I've been honing since I was knee-high. Pondered this scenario for what feels like forever, and if I were cast away, my survival squad would be my trusty guitar (because who wouldn't need a musical companion on a deserted island?), a slick fishing pole to score the catch of the day, a versatile knife, a fire starter for those cozy island nights, and, just to be extra prepared, some spare guitar strings. Because, let's face it, a little island serenade can make solitude sound pretty damn good.

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

A: I used to dream of becoming a veterinarian until I stumbled upon my real passion—the arts. My musical journey kicked off in late 2014 under the alias All.Nighters. As I delved into the arts, I discovered unexpected opportunities in acting that ended up jumpstarting my music career. I became Conscious in late 2015, and from there, I threw myself into both solo projects and collaborations with some incredibly talented local artists. The breakthrough came when I snagged my first major role, playing the antagonist in a Disney Plus show called 'El Repatriado.' To add a sweet twist to the tale, my song 'Clover' Was synced and placed in the show, (during my scenes) marking the official launch of my professional career in both acting and music. Who knew my love for the arts would lead me to this exciting crossroads?"

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My style? Well, it's the intentional kind. I like to think of it as the lovechild of meticulous planning and spontaneous inspiration. When I'm in the creative zone, whether teaming up with fellow artists or going solo, inspiration is my co-pilot. It's not just about making music; it's about harnessing the vibe of the present moment to fuel the sonic journey about to unfold. It's like catching lightning in a bottle, but with a beat you can dance to!

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

A: I find immense inspiration in Dominic Fike's artistic approach—the way he seamlessly blends style, lyrics, and talent resonates with me. Observing his studio sessions has been particularly insightful, and I believe our compatibility in the studio would foster a creative synergy, making the music-making process fluid and enjoyable. Beyond the studio, the vibe he exudes in his live performances suggests a natural rapport that extends beyond the music. There's a sense of camaraderie that aligns with the kind of collaborative and harmonious creative environment I value. Moreover, discovering that he's also an actor adds an intriguing layer to the connection. It hints at a shared understanding of the intersection between music and storytelling, a dynamic that I believe would contribute to a rich and multifaceted collaboration. In essence, the prospect of working with Dominic Fike represents not just a musical opportunity but a chance to connect on a personal and creative level, making for an exciting and fulfilling collaboration.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Keeping a means to record ideas within arm's reach is a practice I swear by. For those, like me, who might not master every instrument but are bursting with creative concepts, capturing the essence of those ideas is key. I recommend recording the vocalization of your musical thoughts—humming, singing, or expressing it vocally. This not only helps in preserving the initial spark but also provides a tangible representation that you can share with skilled instrumentalists who can bring your vision to life. It's a simple yet powerful approach to ensure that no inspired idea goes undocumented or unrealized in your musical journey.

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

A: I don't confine myself to a specific genre; my passion for music is boundless. I approach each project with an open mind, drawing inspiration from the eclectic tapestry of musical genres. The beauty of my creative process lies in its adaptability—I let my emotions guide the direction, allowing me to seamlessly connect and contribute to a diverse range of musical styles. It's this flexibility that enables me to both absorb and enhance the essence of any project, bringing a fresh perspective and an authentic passion to each musical endeavor.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My standout strengths lie in two crucial areas: melody discovery and lyric composition. When it comes to melodies, I have a keen ability to unearth captivating and memorable tunes that complement the essence of the song. This skill is complemented by my prowess in crafting lyrics. I pride myself on creating compelling and evocative verses that not only resonate with the music but also tell a captivating story. These skills, honed through my experience, are the pillars that contribute to the creation of songs that are not just musically engaging but also lyrically resonant and emotionally impactful.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I possess the capability to elevate every aspect of a song, adapting to diverse needs and styles. My confidence stems from a commitment to ensuring that every client is not just satisfied but delighted with the final product. Whether it's refining melodies, enhancing arrangements, or fine-tuning lyrics, I am dedicated to bringing a comprehensive skill set to the table. My goal is not only to complete your song but to surpass expectations, delivering a finished product that resonates with your vision and leaves you thoroughly satisfied.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My creative process kicks off with a deep dive into either the initial idea or an already produced song, immersing myself in the energy it exudes. To set the tone, I engage in freestyling, initially exploring melodies through gibberish. This experimental phase allows me to organically discover melodic patterns that resonate with the song's essence. Once the melodies take shape, I transition into freestyling with words, crafting a preliminary framework for the lyrics. This unstructured approach often leads to the emergence of compelling ideas and themes. The interplay between the beat and these freestyle sessions becomes a dynamic source of inspiration, influencing the overall plot and narrative direction of the song. It's a fluid and intuitive process that allows for the organic evolution of both melody and storytelling, ensuring a genuine and resonant musical experience.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio is equipped with a meticulously sound-treated room optimized for recording acoustics and vocals, ensuring pristine audio quality. The musical arsenal includes a small MIDI and a grand MIDI piano, complemented by two electric guitars, an acoustic guitar, and a bass. I employ the Apollo Twin as my interface, seamlessly integrated with Logic Pro on a state-of-the-art MacBook Pro for a streamlined and powerful production experience. Monitoring is facilitated by a pair of Presonus E3 monitors, offering accurate and detailed playback. Additionally, the studio houses a viola and a saxophone, adding diverse instrumental possibilities. To enhance the sonic palette, an extensive array of plugins is at my disposal, contributing to a versatile and professional studio environment.

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

A: I draw inspiration from several artists whose innovative approaches have significantly influenced my own creative process. Take, for instance, Jon Bellion, whose studio innovations never cease to amaze me. I'm particularly intrigued by his unique techniques, such as passing vocals through guitar amps to craft distinct and nuanced sounds. It's a testament to his boundary-pushing approach that fuels my own exploration in the studio. Then there's Anderson Paak., a maestro in seamlessly blending contemporary and R&B music. His talent for fusing genres in a way that feels both fresh and timeless serves as a constant source of motivation for my own work. Striving to capture that perfect intersection between the contemporary and the classic is a goal I consistently aim for. Lastly, J Cole's lyrical prowess leaves an indelible mark on my approach to songwriting. His ability to weave captivating stories and convey profound messages in a melodic and catchy manner is truly admirable. It's a skill I aspire to emulate in my own work, injecting narrative depth and catchiness into my lyrics. These artists collectively fuel my passion and guide my creative journey.

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

A: In my role as a music creator, a significant portion of my work revolves around crafting compelling lead melodies for tracks. I not only take on the responsibility of writing these melodies but also serve as the music orchestrator, shaping the overall arrangement and composition of the piece. It's not just about delivering a melody; it's about curating an entire musical experience that resonates with the vision and emotion you aim to convey in your project. I thrive in the dual roles of writer and orchestrator, ensuring that the lead melodies not only stand out but seamlessly blend into the broader musical canvas.