Drummer. Producer. Writer.

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

A: For sure, Jerry Roe (drummer), Rory Rositas (engineer)

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

A: Goodbye June (Magic Valley). True story of “sticking with it”. Due to labels/managements/A&R/etc the record took 5 years to make & release. Not one drum track was punched. It was all or nothing. Carolina Story (Dandelion). There’s a song on there, Wildflower. We as the band were simply playing down the chart, but magic hit. I heard the strings/guitars/etc all in my head even though they weren’t there. It was a first take. Also on that record, Long Black Train. It was a song I co-wrote about the middle class (working dad) - my dad & granddads in mind. It was heavily influenced by Tom Petty & I was honored to have it make the cut for the record.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Sample pack of my drums/approach. Finishing producing a British rock EP. Writing for a sophomore record of an Americana band I’m in.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Both. I love messing with gear in my hands... whether approaching the drums a certain way, taping pianos to change their sound, or turning guitar pedals. I’m always excited to find the right mic for the vocal and/or the best chain (pre, etc) for the job. I’m slower at discovering VST (digital instrument) but I enjoy messing things up in order to discover something that works best.

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

A: We can “there”... the end goal.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: The people. The music.

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

A: What’s your favorite kit/snare? All of them. They each have a purpose. What’s yours favorite pre: Lately, the CAPI 312 (heider) What kind of bourbon do you like? EH Taylor What kind of scotch do you like? Laphroig 10

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

A: Misconception: It’s my responsibility to make the song good. In truth, a good song is a good song. My job (as drummer/musician or producer) is to make sure find the best way to deliver the message.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: What’s the song about? What are your goals about the music you’d like to make?

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

A: Trust the process of making music. Know what kind of music you’re wanting to make.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: My past 20+ years of experience as a live/session musician. My ears as a musician, songwriter & producer - & the best approach for what serves the music.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Don’t overthink it.

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

A: Americana, rock, indie folk, indie rock.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Feel. Vibe.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Get a feel for artist and their need(s). Discover where they want to go with the music. Get sounds. Start tracking & communicating.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Multi-instrumental space. Equipped with 32 i/o comprised of outboard gear including a 24 channel trident 78 (with 80b EQ). 5 kits (too many snares/perc to list) Pianos, keys, synths, organs Acoustic guitars, electrics, bass, etc

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

A: Don Was, Dave Cobb, Jeff Bashkirs, Mark Ronson

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

A: Drums/percussion, song production.

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

A: 60’s Ludwig kit, bass, guitar, phone full of music, phone charger. I’d probably forget the phone & charger for scotch though.

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

A: Grew up in the church scene & learned everything about listening to other players & following where the music takes you in the moment. Early 20’s I moved to the northeast to experience the rock scene there. Moved to Louisiana shortly after & that’s where culture & vibe settled into my life: food, day to day, music, night life/etc. I relocated to Nashville in 2012 for the rock band, Goodbye June. Shortly after getting to town, I started touring for country star, Justin Moore. From 2012-current the focus has always been about serving the artist & what’s best for the music.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Honest - not over processed.

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

A: Shawn Mendes or Harry Styles. For me, both provide such heavy emphasis on the rhythm & vocal arrangements. I’d love to work with either, as a drummer sure - but also the ultimate collaboration that comes from producing & sharing ideas.